How Can I Make My Super Last in Retirement? A 10-Step Checklist
- Norma Falconer
- Aug 6
- 3 min read
Retirement should be a time to enjoy the rewards of your working life - not worry about running out of money.
But with Australians living longer and facing rising costs, making your superannuation last is more important than ever.
To help you plan with confidence, we’ve created a 10-step checklist - how can I make my super last in retirement that covers everything from budgeting and investment strategies to government support and professional advice.
This guide draws on trusted sources like Moneysmart, the ATO, and Services Australia to help you make informed decisions.
Whether you’re approaching retirement or already enjoying it, this checklist will help you stretch your super further and live more securely.
✅ 1. Know Your Super Balance and Accounts
Start by checking your total super balance and whether you have multiple accounts. Consolidating them can reduce fees and simplify management.
✅ 2. Choose the Right Investment Option
Your investment mix affects how long your super lasts.
✅ 3. Understand Drawdown Rules
The government sets minimum drawdown rates for account-based pensions. You can choose to withdraw more, but drawing less helps your super last longer.
✅ 4. Budget for Retirement
Use budgeting tools to estimate your living costs and adjust your spending. This helps you avoid overspending and stretch your super.
🔗 Moneysmart Budget Planner
✅ 5. Consider Part-Time Work
Working part-time or casually can supplement your income and reduce pressure on your super.
✅ 6. Maximise Government Support
Use the Age Pension, concession cards, and other benefits to reduce reliance on super.
✅ 7. Make Extra Contributions Before Retiring
Boost your super with voluntary contributions, salary sacrifice, or downsizer contributions if eligible.
✅ 8. Review Fees and Performance
High fees and poor performance can erode your super. Compare your fund’s fees and returns regularly.
🔗ATO – YourSuper Comparison Tool
✅ 9. Plan for Longevity and Inflation
Your retirement could last 20–30 years. Plan for rising costs and ensure your super can support you long-term.
✅ 10. Seek Professional Advice and ask how can I make my super last in retirement?
Talk to your super fund, a financial adviser, or use Services Australia’s Financial Information Service (FIS) for free guidance.
References
📅 Ready to Make Your Super Work Smarter?
Your super is one of your most important financial assets. If you're unsure how to manage it effectively in retirement, we’re here to help.
👉 Book a retirement planning appointment today to get personalised advice tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and financial situation.
Let’s make your retirement not just sustainable—but successful.
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At Think Capital Advice, we believe in empowering our clients with tailored financial strategies to achieve their goals. Curious to know more about who we are?
Visit our About Us page and learn how we’re committed to delivering prudent advice, practical solutions, and progressive results.
Norma Falconer is a Business Owner, Entrepreneur, Financial Planner, Portfolio and Invesment Manager, Personal Insurance Specialist and Estate Planner, in Australia, known for her prudent advice, practical solutions, and progressive results.
As the Founder of Think Capital Advice, Norma combines deep technical expertise with a compassionate, personalised and client-centric approach. Norma specialises in guiding high-income-earning business owners, professionals, and their families toward achieving their version of financial independence. Her dedication to excellence is matched by a commitment to making complex financial concepts accessible and actionable for her clients.
She is Professionally Licensed, FASEA-accredited, a Tax (Financial) Adviser, and holds multiple qualifications, including a Post-Graduate Diploma of Financial Planning and certifications in results coaching. Beyond her professional achievements, Norma is an advocate for community empowerment and has served on various boards, including the Cansa Association and Business Women’s Association. She is also a best-selling author, recognised speaker, and media contributor, sharing insights that simplify the path to financial independence.
Leveraging over 36 years of working with high-net wealth families, the team at Think Capital Advice excel in working with you to improve financial stability through maximising cashflow, growing wealth, utilising tax-effective strategies, and ensuring that your legacy is protected. Learn more at Think Capital Advice
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