How Much Super Do You Really Need to Retire Comfortably in Canberra?
For many Canberrans, retirement isn’t about “stopping work” — it’s about having the freedom to choose how you spend your time. Whether it’s weekend trips to the coast, helping with the grandkids, or just keeping the heating on all winter without worrying about the power bill, understanding how much you’ll need to retire comfortably is key.
According to ASFA’s Retirement Standard, a comfortable lifestyle for a couple costs around $72,000 per year, and for singles about $51,000 per year. But Canberra’s cost of living can be slightly higher, particularly for rates, utilities and lifestyle costs.
So, how much super do you actually need?
For a couple, a balance of around $690,000 each at retirement (age 67) can support a comfortable lifestyle.
For a single person, around $595,000.
For those with a modest lifestyle (relying partly on the Age Pension), the target may be closer to $300,000–$400,000.
Of course, these numbers depend on your personal situation — your home ownership, spending habits, and whether you want to travel or help kids financially.
That’s where tailored financial advice comes in. A local adviser can model different retirement scenarios and show exactly how much you’ll need to fund the lifestyle you want — factoring in inflation, investment returns, and your super fund’s performance.
Tip: If you’re 10–15 years from retirement, now’s the time to:
Review your super investment option and fees.
Check your contributions strategy (salary sacrifice or after-tax).
Consolidate old super accounts to avoid duplicate fees.
At Access Wealth Group, we help Canberrans plan for a confident retirement — not just a comfortable one. Contact us today to see how your super is tracking.
This article is of a general nature only and does not take into account your individual financial circumstances, objectives, or needs. It does not constitute personal financial advice. You should not act on any of the information provided without first seeking professional financial advice that considers your personal situation.