Super Strategies for a Comfortable Retirement Lifestyle

Superannuation is one of the most powerful tools Australians have to build long-term wealth. But it’s not just about saving money — it’s about making sure you can live the life you want in retirement.

Whether you’re years away or nearing retirement age, the right super strategies today can give you more choice, confidence, and freedom tomorrow.

Here are the key ways to boost your super and shape a lifestyle you’ll enjoy.

Understand How Much You’ll Need

Start with a clear target.

According to the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA), for a comfortable retirement:

• A single person needs around $50,000 a year
• A couple needs about $70,000 a year

This assumes you own your home and are relatively healthy.

Ask your planner:

• How much super will I need to generate that income?
• Am I on track based on my current balance and contributions?
• What gaps do I need to close?

👉 How much super do I need to retire?

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Maximise Concessional Contributions

You can contribute up to $27,500 per year (including employer contributions) and claim it as a tax deduction.

This is often one of the most tax-effective ways to grow your super.

Also consider:

• If you’ve had a low-income year previously, you may be eligible to carry forward unused cap space from the past five years (if your total super is under $500,000).
• This can allow you to tip in more without breaching the cap.

👉 Understand concessional contributions

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Top Up With Non-Concessional Contributions

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Got spare cash or an inheritance?

You may be able to contribute up to $110,000 per year from after-tax money — or bring forward $330,000 over three years (subject to eligibility).

This won’t reduce your taxable income, but it boosts your super faster — and all future investment earnings inside super are taxed at just 15% (or 0% in retirement phase).

👉Superannuation contribution strategies

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Make Use of Downsizer Contributions

If you’re aged 55 or older and have sold your home, you may be able to contribute up to $300,000 into super from the sale proceeds — without affecting your contribution caps.

This can be a game changer for Australians who are asset-rich but cash-flow tight.

Speak to your accountant or planner first to make sure the timing and paperwork are correct.

👉 Downsizer contribution eligibility

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Review Your Super Investment Options

Not all super funds are equal — and not all investment options suit your goals or risk appetite.

Ask:

• Is my current option aligned to my retirement timeline?
• Am I too conservative (or too aggressive) for my age?
• How have my investments performed compared to the market?

As you get closer to retirement, it might make sense to shift gradually to a more balanced or lower-volatility option — without missing growth altogether.

👉 Review your super investment choice

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Check Your Insurance and Fees

Default insurance cover inside super can erode your balance if you don’t review it.

Ask your planner:

• Do I still need this level of life or TPD cover?
• Can I get the same cover outside super at a better cost?
• How much am I paying in fees, and are they competitive?

Lowering unnecessary costs inside super can significantly improve your retirement balance over time.

👉 Check your insurance inside super

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7. Plan Your Drawdown Strategy Early

Once you reach retirement, your focus shifts from growing super to drawing an income from it.

Planning ahead means:

• Transitioning into account-based pensions (which pay you regular income)
• Knowing when to start your minimum pension withdrawals
• Avoiding unintended tax consequences by structuring withdrawals properly

This is where a wealth planner can tailor a strategy that gives you income and peace of mind.

👉 Account-based pension strategies

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Key Takeaways

• A comfortable retirement takes planning, not luck
• Use concessional, non-concessional, and downsizer contributions where possible
• Check your super settings — investment choice, fees, and insurance all matter
• Get professional advice to create a super strategy that aligns with your lifestyle goals

Book a Super Strategy Session

If you’re thinking about your future lifestyle, start with your super.

Speak with an RJS Strategic Wealth Planner to review your current balance, explore your contribution options, and build a plan for the retirement you want — not just the one you settle for.

👉 Book a chat

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