How does super for under 18s work?
Superannuation allows you to save a part of your income while you're working, for you to live on in retirement.
If you’re eligible, your employer will automatically contribute to your super. This is a minimum of 11.5% of your ordinary time earnings into your chosen super account. This payment is known as the Superannuation Guarantee.
Understanding how much super you should be paid helps to make sure you don't miss out on any payments.
Under 18 super rules
You're eligible for super payments if:
You’re under 18 and
You work more than 30 hours a week
You're casual, part-time or full-time
It doesn't matter how much you earn.
What is the best super fund for under 18s?
Investing in super is a long-term commitment. It's what most Australians will rely on to provide financial security throughout their retirement.
To choose the right super fund for you, consider the following:
Performance
Look at the super fund’s long-term performance and returns. Good returns help grow your super balance faster than just adding your own money to it.
Insurance
Check the insurance options available through your super fund and how much they cost. This can provide extra protection for you in case of unexpected events.
Fees
Paying high fees can impact your super balance over time, so choose a fund with competitive fees.
Service and support
Check the tools on offer to manage your super online or via an app, and extra services such as financial advice to help you make informed decisions about your super.
Investment options
Check the fund offers a range of investment options and gives you the flexibility to leave investment decisions to the experts or take a more hands-on approach.
Join one of Australia's largest super funds
What if I'm under 15?
Download the guide which contains the membership form.
Get your parent or legal guardian to sign off on your membership.
Upload the completed form and documents on our Email Us page.
How to submit the form
- Select ‘Member’
- Under ‘I’m looking for help with’ select ‘Send other form or document’
- Leave member number blank
- Click 'Submit form'
Your super, your choice
You don't have to use your employer's super fund and can usually choose your own. There's two ways to give your super details to your employer:
Take charge of your super
Head to the App Store or Google Play to download the Australian Retirement Trust app.
FAQs about super basics
Retirement may be a long way off, but a bit of work now can pay off later. Make sure to learn more about super and what you should be doing right now.
