Super: what is it and why is it important

Superannuation, or 'super', is a part of your income your employer pays into a super fund. Your super builds up over your working life. You use your super money to live on when you retire from work.

Super is important because the more you save, the more money you will have for your retirement.

There are age limits for when you can access your super. Be careful if anyone offers to help you withdraw your super early. It may be illegal.

If you were working in Australia on a temporary visa and you go home, you may be able to access your super. This is called as a Departing Australia superannuation payment (DASP).

See also:

• Your superannuation basics
• Illegal super schemes – beware of offers to withdraw your super early
• Departing Australia superannuation payment (DASP)

Next steps:

• Keep safe from scams
• Getting help

^{Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.}