Calculator guideHow 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
- Current balance: $80,000
- Monthly contributions (employer SG plus any extra): $800
- Expected return: 6% p.a. after fees and tax
- Months: 25 × 12 = 300
- 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
- Salary sacrifice or personal deductible contributions, within the concessional cap
- Consolidating multiple accounts to avoid paying multiple sets of fees
- Checking fees and your investment option. A 1% difference in fees compounds into a large amount over decades.
- Government co-contribution or spouse contributions, if you're eligible
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.
Written by Sam Alex, civil engineer. About the author