Let's talk about preservation age
Your preservation age is how old you have to be to start using your super. Until then, your super's preserved, or locked away.
The Australian Government sets these age limits, and you have to be retired.
What is my preservation age?
Generally, you can get money from your super once you reach age 60.
Tip: your preservation age is different to your retirement age. Check out our tips to help you decide when to retire.
Preservation age: When can I retire?
Knowing when we can access our super is key to figuring out our retirement age.
Rules for accessing super
There are usually a couple of conditions you need to meet as well as preservation age, when you're ready to start using your super.
Under 60
Under special circumstances, you may be able to withdraw some of your super early.
This could be due to financial hardship, disability, funeral or medical costs, or if you're eligible for the First Home Super Saver Scheme.
Ages 60–64
You can access your super when:
- You retire
- You leave a job
- You open a Transition to Retirement Income account while you’re still working (limits apply).
65 or older
Everyone can get their super when they turn 65. Even if you haven't retired, you'll have full access to your super savings.
Good to know: when you leave a job at age 60 or older, you can start using the super you've saved up until then. Log in to Member Online to check your super balance.
Put your super to work
There are different ways to access your super – regular payments, one-off withdrawals, or both. We've got all the info you need.
Preservation age vs Age Pension qualifying age
The superannuation preservation age and the age that you can get the government's Age Pension aren't the same.
- To get the Age Pension, you must be age 67 or over, depending on when you were born (and you need to meet some other rules).
- The age you can access your super (preservation age) is generally age 60 if you've retired.
So even if you've reached your preservation age, you may have to wait a long time to be able to get the Age Pension.
Make your super last longer
Turn your super into regular income payments once you reach preservation age. Our retirement products can help make your super last longer.