SuperGuide

Superannuation and retirement planning information

Accessing super

There are multiple ways that you can legally access your superannuation under Australian legislation. These are known as conditions of release.

The most common conditions of release are listed below.

  • Reaching your preservation age and retiring. Your preservation age is between 55 and 60, depending on your date of birth.
  • Reaching your preservation age and starting a transition-to-retirement income stream (TRIS).
  • Being 60 or over and ceasing an employment arrangement, even if you don’t retire.
  • Being 65 or over, even if you don’t retire.
  • Death.

There are also the following additional conditions of release that will allow you to access your super early, provided you meet strict eligibility criteria.

  • On compassionate grounds.
  • If you’re suffering severe financial hardship.
  • If you’re diagnosed with a terminal medical condition.
  • If you’re temporarily incapacitated.
  • If you’re permanently incapacitated.
  • Through the First Home Super Saver Scheme.
  • If you’re a temporary resident departing Australia.
  • If you terminate gainful employment with less than $200 in your super account.

Learn about the key aspects of accessing your super in the following SuperGuide articles:

Set out below are all SuperGuide articles that relate to Accessing super.