Updated on 6 June 2025
3 minute read
When it comes to growing your super, every bit you add helps. There are 2 ways to put money into your super: before-tax and after-tax, also known as concessional and non-concessional contributions.
Both big and small contributions can add up to make a difference to your retirement, and there are some good reasons why adding after-tax money to your super can help you reach your retirement goals. But first, let's look at the difference between concessional and non-concessional contributions.
A non-concessional contribution is extra money you put in your super that you've already paid tax on. They're also known as after-tax contributions and personal super contributions.
This includes:
money you ask your employer to put in from your after-tax pay
money you add from your take-home pay or savings
money your spouse adds to your super.
As you've already paid tax on the money, it's not taxed again when you add it to your super (unless you claim it as a tax deduction).
A concessional contribution is money you put in your super that you haven't yet paid tax on.
This includes:
compulsory super guarantee payments from your employer
money you choose to salary sacrifice
money you add from your take-home pay or savings (if you claim it as a tax deduction).
This money (along with all investment returns) is then taxed in your super fund.
Here are 5 ways non-concessional contributions can help you reach your financial goals.
When you put money into your super fund, it grows over time. Even small amounts can add up. This could mean a more comfortable retirement with more choices. Making non-concessional contributions to your super is an easy way to help grow your balance. Keep in mind, you generally can't access your super until you reach age 60 and retire.
You can make non-concessional contributions any time, on top of what your employer adds. This is a great way to save more for retirement if you get extra money like bonuses and windfalls. But remember, there's a limit on how much you can add each financial year. Make sure to check the non-concessional contributions cap.
If you're a low to middle income earner, you may get the Australian Government's super co-contribution. Make after-tax payments to your super fund and if you're eligible, the government will add up to $500 on top. You don't need to apply for this – it happens when you do your tax return.
Use our calculator to find out how much you might receive for the 2024–25 financial year.
The income used to determine your eligibility for the super co-contribution is your assessable income plus any salary-sacrifice (before tax) super contributions and reportable fringe benefits.
This calculator is a guide only and is not general or personal advice. We recommend speaking with a qualified financial adviser before making decisions for your individual needs.1
Amounts shown are based on information from the ATO and is the amount payable for the 2024-25 financial year, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements.
By making non-concessional contributions to your spouse's super, you'll help them grow their retirement savings, plus you may get tax benefits too. If your spouse earns under $40,000 for the year, you could get a tax offset of up to $540 for money you add to their super if you're eligible.
When you take money out of your super after age 60, it's usually tax-free.
Remember, growing your super is about small steps over time. So, take those steps today for a more comfortable retirement.
As a member with us, you can access expert financial advice on your ART account as part of your membership.2 It's easy to book online.
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1. This calculator is provided by Australian Retirement Trust Pty Ltd (ABN 88 010 720 840, AFSL 228 975) (Australian Retirement Trust).
Australian Retirement Trust has put together this calculator to give you some examples of different financial scenarios, based on stated assumptions and the figures you input. The calculations are intended as estimates only; and they’re not meant to be a substitute for professional financial advice. While we’ve based the information on sources that we believe are reliable and accurate, your actual outcomes will depend on a range of factors outside of our control. So you shouldn’t rely on this calculator when you’re making decisions about a financial product, fund or strategy. Instead, you should consider getting advice from a qualified financial adviser.
Australian Retirement Trust expressly disclaim all liability and responsibility to any person who relies, or partially relies, on anything done or omitted to be done by this calculator.
2. Any advice given is by representatives of Sunsuper Financial Services (SFS) Pty Ltd (ABN 50 087 154 818, AFSL 227867), wholly owned by the Trustee. SFS is a separate legal entity responsible for the financial services it provides. Eligibility conditions apply. Refer to the Financial Services Guide (pdf) at australianretirementtrust.com.au/fsg for more information.
