Metric Unit Calculator
Financial calculator

Superannuation Growth Calculator

Projected retirement balance: -

How this result was calculated

The formula, your substituted values, and the evaluated result are shown below.

Results are estimates. Rates should be entered as annual percentages unless the field states otherwise.

Balance growth over time

Products that may help

Recommended

Udemy Education

Udemy is an AI-powered skills acceleration platform transforming how companies and individuals across the world build the capabilities needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving workplace.

View offerAffiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

About this calculator

Calculate superannuation growth calculator using clearly labelled financial inputs and an instant result.

Calculator guide

How the superannuation growth calculator works

The calculator projects your super balance by growing your current balance and your regular monthly contributions at an expected return:

Future balance = B × (1 + r)^n + C × ((1 + r)^n − 1) ÷ r

where B is today's balance, C is the monthly contribution, r is the monthly return (annual % ÷ 1,200) and n is the number of months until retirement.

Worked example: 25 years to retirement

  1. Current balance: $80,000
  2. Monthly contributions (employer SG plus any extra): $800
  3. Expected return: 6% p.a. after fees and tax
  4. Months: 25 × 12 = 300
  5. Projected balance: about $911,600

Of that, today's $80,000 grows to about $357,200, and the contributions (which total $240,000) grow to about $554,400. The earlier money goes in, the harder it works.

Choosing a realistic return

Balanced and growth options have historically returned roughly 6–8% a year over long periods before inflation, but returns vary widely from year to year, including negative years. Use a return after fees and investment tax, and consider testing a lower figure (e.g., 5%) to see a cautious outcome.

Today's dollars

A projection of $911,600 in 25 years isn't worth $911,600 today. At 3% inflation, it's roughly $435,000 in today's dollars. To see today's-dollar figures directly, use a "real" return (your return minus inflation, e.g., 6% − 3% = 3%).

Boosting your balance

Rules and caps change, so check the ATO or a licensed financial adviser.

How much super will I have at retirement?

It depends on your balance, contributions, returns and time. With $80,000 now, $800 a month and 6% for 25 years, the projection is about $911,600.

What is the super guarantee rate?

12% of ordinary time earnings from 1 July 2025.

Should I use a real or nominal return?

Use a nominal return to see the future dollar figure, or a real return (after inflation) to see what it's worth in today's dollars.