Super Preservation Age Checker Australia 2026

What Is the Super Preservation Age?

The superannuation preservation age is the minimum age at which Australians can access their preserved superannuation benefits, subject to meeting a condition of release. Since 1 July 2024, the preservation age is 60 for all Australians regardless of birth date — the old sliding scale (55–60 depending on birth year) has fully phased out. This means anyone born on or after 1 July 1964 has a preservation age of exactly 60. If you were born before that date and were in the old 55–59 age bracket, you have already passed your preservation age.

Reaching preservation age does not automatically mean you can withdraw your super. You must also satisfy a condition of release: retiring permanently from the workforce, commencing a Transition to Retirement (TTR) income stream, reaching age 65, or satisfying another condition such as permanent incapacity, severe financial hardship, or compassionate grounds.

Transition to Retirement (TTR) Pension Rules

Once you reach preservation age (60) and are still working, you can start a Transition to Retirement income stream. The TTR pension lets you draw between 4% and 10% of your account balance each financial year while continuing to work. The main benefit is tax: pension income from a TTR is tax-free once you are 60. You can combine a TTR with salary sacrifice contributions to build super while drawing an income. However, the TTR phase has a 0% tax earnings rate only once you convert to a fully "retirement phase" pension after permanently retiring (or turning 65).

Conditions of Release — Full Access vs Restricted Access

There are two levels of access. Restricted access (at preservation age 60, still working): you can start a TTR pension but cannot take a lump sum unless you retire. Full unrestricted access (at age 65, or from age 60 after permanently retiring): you can withdraw any amount at any time as either a lump sum or pension. Key conditions of release also include: permanent incapacity, terminal medical condition, severe financial hardship (after 26 weeks on income support), and first home super saver release.

Tax on Super Withdrawals After Age 60

All super withdrawals — lump sums or pension payments — are completely tax-free for persons aged 60 and over where the fund is a taxed superannuation fund (the vast majority of Australian funds). This is a significant advantage of the super system. SMSF members and defined benefit schemes may have different tax treatment. Before age 60, the taxable component of lump sum withdrawals may attract a 15% concessional tax rate between ages 55–59. Always obtain independent financial advice before making super withdrawals.