Life changes
28 July, 2025

Meet your first serious relationship

It might not send heart emojis or bring you flowers, but your super could be one of the most important relationships of your life. You’ve finished studying, landed your first job (or you're nearly there), and you’re finally starting to earn more than just enough to cover noodles and toasties. It’s an exciting time — and while your focus is probably on building your career, getting through your probation period, or finally upgrading from sharehouse living, there’s something else that deserves a little attention: your super.

Yes, superannuation. That thing your employer keeps putting money into. The one with the confusing statements and the balance that seems too small to matter. 

But here’s the thing: now is the perfect time to start paying attention to it — because the moves you make early can quietly grow into something big. Super fits into your bigger picture of financial independence, career growth, and future freedom. 

 

First: What is super, really?

Super is your long-term savings account for retirement, but it’s also much more than that. It’s an investment fund your employer pays into (currently 12% of your ordinary earnings), and over time, thanks to compound interest and smart investing, it grows 

The earlier you start engaging with it, the more time your money has to grow. That’s the quiet magic of super: it builds behind the scenes while you focus on your career, your goals, and your life. 

 

Why should you care now?

When you’re young, your contributions might seem small — but the impact is huge. For example, someone who starts paying attention to their super at age 22 instead of 32 can end up thousands more at retirement, without putting in anything extra. It’s not about pouring all your energy into retirement planning now — it’s about setting up good habits and avoiding the traps. Here’s how super fits into your career journey — and why it matters: 
 

1. It’s part of your total salary package

You might see a salary offer and think “awesome” — but check if that includes super. Employers must pay at least 12% of your earnings into your super fund, on top of your base wage. That’s real money. Don’t leave it floating around in multiple accounts or going into a fund you’ve never chosen. 

2. You can take it with you

If you change jobs — which most people do in their 20s — your super fund doesn’t change automatically. You can choose to keep your existing fund and tell your new employer to pay into it. This helps you avoid having multiple accounts (which can mean more fees, duplicated insurance, and lost savings). 

3. You might be paying for insurance you didn’t know about

Most super funds include automatic1 insurance for life cover, disability, or income protection. That can be useful — but if you have multiple funds, you could be paying for duplicate cover. Or you might be paying for insurance that doesn’t suit your life stage. It’s worth checking what you’re covered for and tailoring it to your needs. 

4. You can choose how your money is invested

Super funds offer a range of investment options, from conservative to high-growth. At your age, you’ve got time on your side — which means you might be able to ride out market ups and downs for better long-term returns. Choosing an investment option that suits your goals can make a big difference over time. 

5. It’s future-you security

You may not be thinking about retirement — and that’s fine. But super isn’t just about your 60s. It’s about financial freedom, about knowing you’ll have choices later. Whether that means working less, retiring earlier, or doing something you love without worrying about income — super helps make it possible. 

Think of your super as part of your career starter pack. Just like your resume, your LinkedIn, or your first payslip — your super deserves a little attention. Set it up right now, and your future self (and your bank account) will thank you later. 

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 005 166.2

 

 

 

Information correct as at 28 July 2025.

 


Disclaimer: 

1If you are over 25 and have more than $6,000 in your account.
2CareSuper Advice is a financial advice service available to CareSuper members through CareSuper Advice 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 Pty Ltd is a wholly owned company of CareSuper (Secretariat Co) Pty Ltd ABN 29 104 826 413, a related entity of 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. 

Read next