Your Guide to Financial Planning for Canberra Public Servants
Canberra’s economy runs on the public service — and so do many of our clients’ financial lives. From defined benefit super schemes to salary packaging, APS employees have unique opportunities (and pitfalls) when it comes to financial planning.
Why public service financial planning is different
APS staff often have generous super structures like PSS, CSS, or PSSap, along with access to salary sacrifice options public sector insurance. These benefits can be powerful — if used strategically.
Key areas to focus on
Super optimisation: Make sure your contribution rate and investment mix align with your career stage and retirement timeline.
Salary packaging: From novated leases to additional super contributions, packaging can help reduce tax — but needs to be structured correctly.
Transition planning: If you plan to retire early or move into contracting, it’s essential to understand how that impacts your defined benefit or accumulation fund.
Tax management: With high APS income brackets, Canberra professionals benefit from strategies like spouse contributions, investment diversification, and salary sacrifice (where appropriate).
Local advantage
We have deep experience helping APS employees and contractors navigate the specifics of Canberra’s public service environment — from PSS and CSS calculations to accumulation superannuation strategies.
At Access Wealth Group, we specialise in guiding public servants toward financial confidence and a secure retirement. Book your consultation with us today.
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.