What does superannuation mean?
Superannuation, or super, is money for when you retire. Your work puts some of your pay into a special account with a super fund. This money grows over time. You can then use the money when you're old enough and stop working.
Not sure where your super is? It's easy to find your super.
Forms and information for our members
What is superannuation?
Learn the basics of superannuation and you’re on your way to a better retirement.
How do I look after my super?
The good news is that your super fund looks after your money for you. But there are some simple things you can do to protect and grow your balance, and keep track of it.
Bring all your super together
Had lots of jobs? You might have more than one super account. This could mean you're paying extra fees.
To save money and keep track of your super, put it all in one place. We call this 'combining' or 'consolidating' your super.
Before you combine super
Think about if it’s right for you. You may lose access to benefits like insurance or pension options. And you need to think about how it might affect your taxes.
Online
The easiest way to combine your super with us is to log in to Member Online or our app.
In person
You can visit us in person, too. Remember to bring some identification (ID) like your:
- tax file number (TFN)
- birth certificate
- truck, boat, bike, or driver's licence
- Centrelink card
- Community ID card with photo
- Passport
- Medicare card
Don't have any of these?
Use our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ID form (see above).
By mail
Another way is to fill out our paper form and mail it to us at:
Australian Retirement Trust
Reply Paid 2924
Brisbane Qld 4001
Tell your fund if you move homes or change jobs
You’ll get infomation about your super from your super fund at least once a year. But what happens if we can't contact you? Or no money goes into your account for a while?
That’s when we have to mark your super as 'lost'.
To make sure this doesn’t happen, tell us if you move homes or change jobs. You can do this in Member Online or give us a call on 13 11 84.
Choose who gets your super when you die
Telling your super fund where you want your money to go when you die is the quickest way to get it to your family.
When you choose someone, they're called a beneficiary. To get started:
- check the rules
- fill out a binding death benefit nomination form in Member Online
- remember to tell us if things in your life change.
Can I get some of my super early?
If you're struggling with money, you may be able to take out some super early.
This could be for things like:
- really bad money problems
- paying medical bills
- funeral costs for someone who depends on you for money
- if you're likely to die within 24 months from an illness or injury.
Want to know more? Call us for a yarn.
How do I learn more?
There are many ways you can learn about saving for when you retire. And what else your super can give you – like insurance cover to protect you and your family if something goes wrong.
Call us on 13 11 84 for a yarn
First Nations Foundation
We’ve teamed up with First Nations Foundation to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have better financial futures.