Useful next calculations
Rates and sources, 2026–27
ATO super guarantee rate and the concessional contributions cap from 1 July 2026.
| Band or figure | Rate |
|---|---|
| Super guarantee | 12% |
| Concessional cap 2026–27 | $32,500 |
| Previous cap (to 30 June 2026) | $30,000 |
Source: ATO — maximum contribution base (cap from 1 July 2026). Source checked for 2026–27.
When to use this calculator
- Before choosing between saving, investing or changing a contribution.
- When you want to compare cautious, base and optimistic return assumptions.
- When you need a projection before making a longer-term decision.
- When you want to see whether starting earlier or contributing more changes the outcome more.
A worked example
These are the example figures the calculator opens with.
| Input | Value |
|---|---|
| Your Current Age | 35 |
| Retirement Age | 67 |
| Current Super Balance (A$) | A$0 |
| Annual Salary (A$) | A$80,000 |
For those figures the calculator returns:
- Projected super balance: A$962,336.75
- Total contributions: A$261,120.00
- Investment growth: A$701,216.75
- Estimated annual drawdown (4%): A$38,493.47
- Annual SGC: A$9,600.00
Common mistakes
- Using an assumption that is not supported by a current local quote, bill, statement or official source.
- Treating a generic estimate as a lender, provider, payroll or tax authority decision.
- Mixing monthly and annual inputs without converting them consistently.
- Testing only one scenario instead of checking how a cautious assumption changes the result.
What to do next
- Run a second scenario with a cautious assumption so you can see the downside clearly.
- Compare the result with the related calculators below before making a decision.
- Check current local rules, eligibility and provider terms before applying or committing money.
- Keep a record of the assumptions so you can update the estimate when a quote, bill or pay figure changes.
Questions people ask
The 4% rule is a widely cited retirement planning guideline suggesting that withdrawing 4% of your balance in year one, then adjusting for inflation, gives a high probability of the portfolio lasting 30 years. It is used here as an indicative guide only. ASFA, superannuation funds, and financial advisers in Australia typically recommend a personalised retirement income strategy rather than relying on a single rule of thumb. Your actual drawdown will depend on your lifestyle costs, other income sources like the Age Pension, and investment returns in retirement.