Are you on track with your retirement planning journey? As we enter a new financial year, our super contributions are worth checking to ensure we're prepared.
Superannuation plays a crucial role in Aussies' retirement savings strategy. Exploring average contributions across different age groups gives us valuable insights into retirement readiness.
In this article, I examine the average annual super contributions for individuals aged 45-49, 50-54, and 55-59. Please note that the averages used below are my calculations using FY22 data from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
Average annual contributions by age group
Based on the data, the average superannuation contributions for different age groups are as follows.
| Age group | Employer | Personal | Other | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40-44 | $7,306 | $954 | $309 | $8,569 |
| 45-49 | $7,418 | $1,500 | $456 | $9,374 |
| 50-54 | $7,264 | $2,495 | $671 | $10,430 |
| 55-59 | $6,897 | $5,027 | $879 | $12,803 |
Ages 45 to 49: Increasing awareness of retirement planning
For individuals aged 45-49, the total average annual contribution for FY22 was $9,374, which included employer contributions of $7,418 and personal contributions of $1,500.
There has been an increase in personal contributions compared to the 40-44 age group, indicating growing awareness and proactive steps towards retirement planning.
Age 50 to 54: Heightened focus on retirement
The average annual contribution for this age group rises to $10,430. This includes employer contributions of $7,264, personal contributions of $2,495, and other contributions of $671.
It is worth noting that at this stage, contributions from employers have started to fall, reflecting changes in employment status and the transition to retirement. On the other hand, individuals are exploring various avenues to boost their superannuation, including salary sacrifice and other voluntary contributions.
Age 55 to 59: Intensive retirement preparation
For this older age group, the average annual contribution significantly increased to $12,803, including employer contributions of $6,897 and personal and other contributions of $5,027 and $879, respectively.
Reduced employer contributions could be due to various factors, such as changes in employment status or reduced working hours as individuals transition towards retirement.
The high total contributions reflect a comprehensive approach to retirement savings, combining employer, personal, and other contributions to build a robust retirement fund.
Are you increasing personal contributions enough?
An increasing number of people are making additional personal contributions to their superannuation through salary sacrifice, showing they understand the importance of saving more for retirement.
As the table below demonstrates, not only are more individuals making personal contributions as they get older, but the average amount of these contributions is also increasing.
| Age group | % of people making personal contribution | Average annual personal contribution |
|---|---|---|
| 40-44 | 10% | $9,099 |
| 45-49 | 13% | $11,462 |
| 50-54 | 17% | $15,109 |
| 55-59 | 21% | $23,884 |
The significant increase in personal contributions, especially through salary sacrifice, highlights a proactive approach to retirement savings. For instance, 21% of individuals aged 55-59 are making personal contributions, with an average contribution of $23,884.
While employer contributions form the bulk of superannuation savings, personal contributions are becoming increasingly important. This shift underscores the importance of individual efforts in securing a comfortable retirement.
Foolish takeaway
The average annual super contributions for individuals by age group highlight a growing focus on retirement savings. Many individuals are now taking proactive steps to bolster their superannuation through personal contributions, which tend to grow with age.
