Super may be the largest investment people make but many people are unaware of the special tax benefits available. These benefits are not available through any other type of investment.

Over the long term, the special tax rules applied to super can make a significant difference in how much you are able to save for your retirement:

• Super is the only investment you can make with your pre-tax money. Your contributions to super, and any investment earnings, are taxed at up to 15%, while your income may be taxed at up to 46.5%.
• Once you've paid tax, when you turn 55 you can withdraw up to $160,000 tax-free, and when you turn 60 any withdrawal is tax-free. (GESB Super members pay tax on contributions to their fund, while West State and Gold State Super members pay tax when they access their benefit so this tax may differ).
• After-tax contributions may receive a co-contribution from the government, if you earn less than $61,920.