Make super work for you now – not just later

CareSuper

Here’s the truth: super isn’t just about retiring in 40 years. It’s about opportunities, support, and growth that can benefit you right now. And the earlier you start paying attention to it, the more powerful it becomes.

Here’s how to make your super start working for you — today.

Super is real money (even if you can’t spend it yet)

Let’s get one thing straight: just because you can’t use your super until later in life doesn’t mean it’s not your money.  

Your employer is legally required to pay 12% of your salary into your super fund — and that’s on top of what you’re getting in your bank account. It might not seem like much at first, but over time, it adds up in a big way. Even a small super balance in your 20s can make a big impact over time — especially when invested steadily and wisely.

Start seeing super as part of your total income — one that grows behind the scenes.

The earlier you start, the less you have to do later

Super grows over time, thanks to something called compound returns — where you earn returns on your returns.

The earlier your money is invested, the more time it has to grow. That means a little attention now can save you a lot of effort later. For example, someone who starts tracking and contributing to super at age 22 could end up with tens of thousands more at retirement than someone who starts at age 32 — even if they contribute the same amount overall.

You might already be paying for insurance – make it work for you

Most super funds automatically* include insurance — like life cover, total and permanent disability (TPD), or income protection. This can be useful support even in your 20s if something unexpected happens. But it’s important to check if:  

• You’re covered (some casual or low-income workers aren’t)  
• You’re paying for duplicate or unnecessary cover 
• You’re getting value for what you’re paying

By tailoring your insurance, you can ensure you’re protected now, while keeping more money in your fund to grow — check now.

Make your fund work smarter with the right investment option

Most super funds offer a few different investment options, like conservative, balanced, or growth. If you’re young, you’ve got time on your side — which means you can often afford to take on a little more risk for higher long-term returns.  

Choosing a higher-growth option might feel like a small decision, but it can make a massive difference by the time you retire. It’s about letting your money do more of the heavy lifting, while you focus on building your career.

It’s your fund – own it

Many people don’t even know where their super is. If you’ve had a few casual jobs or part-time roles while studying, you might have multiple super accounts floating around. That can mean multiple fees, and possibly lost insurance benefits.  

It’s easy to fix. Find and combine all your super¹. Consolidating it now and keeping it altogether can help it grow over time. And we can help you find any other super you may have and combine it to your CareSuper account.

Remember, make sure you take it with you when you start a new job. Don’t let your employer decide for you.

Final word: Super is your asset – start using it

Super isn’t just about retirement. It’s about your financial future, your safety net, and your independence. The earlier you understand it, the more control you’ll have — and the less you’ll have to scramble later on. So, take five minutes today to check in on your super:  

• Consider combining your super accounts
• Choose an investment option
• Understand what you’re paying for

Because future you isn’t that far away — and they’ll be glad you started now. You can speak with a Super Adviser at no additional cost about how your super is tracking today, your balance at retirement, and ways to build the future you deserve.
Simply call 1800 005 166.

_¹Before combining your super into CareSuper you should consider whether this is right for you and whether you will be charged any fees. You should also check the impact on any insurance arrangements (such as loss of insurance) and other benefits including tax implications. Contact us to find out if you’re eligible to transfer your cover to us before combining accounts. Consider if you want to claim a tax deduction or split contributions, as you won’t be able to do this on the contributions you’ve transferred. Once combined, let your employer know you’ve changed super funds. All future contributions should then be paid to CareSuper.  

CareSuper Advice is a financial advice service available to CareSuper members through CareSuper Pty Ltd (ABN 78 102 167 877, AFSL No. 284443) which is licensed to provide financial advice services and deal in financial products. CareSuper Advice is wholly owned by CareSuper Pty Ltd ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL No. 238718 (Trustee) which is the trustee of CareSuper ABN 74 559 365 913 (Fund)  

CareSuper Pty Ltd (Trustee) (ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238718). CareSuper (Fund) (ABN 74 559 365 913). Any advice is provided by CareSuper Advice Pty Ltd (ABN 78 102 167 877, AFSL 284443). Consider the PDS and TMD at caresuper.com.au/pds. A copy of the Financial services guide for CareSuper is available at caresuper.com.au/fsg  

This is general information only and doesn’t take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision about CareSuper, you should consider if this information is right for you. You may also wish to consult a licensed financial adviser.  

*If you are over 25 years of age and have more than $6,000 in your account