You can generally access your superannuation in Australia when you reach your preservation age and retire. As of 1 July 2024, the preservation age is 60. You can access your super if you:
- Have reached age 60 and permanently retired or left a job
- Are aged 65 or older, whether or not you have retired
- Are transitioning to retirement and have reached preservation age, allowing access to some super via a transition to retirement income stream
There are also some special circumstances where you may be able to access your super early, such as severe financial hardship, compassionate grounds, terminal illness, permanent incapacity, or if you are a temporary resident leaving Australia permanently. In short, for most people, you can get your super when you reach 60 and retire, or from age 65 regardless of retirement status. Early access is available only in special cases approved by your super fund or the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
