7 simple steps to set up your super in 2026
Looking for easy wins to set yourself up for superannuation success? These tips from Aware Super can help!
Sponsored by Aware Super. Grab your checklist from Aware Super to work through seven simple steps to set up your super in 2026.
Not sure where to get started with your super? No problem!
It doesn't have to be a chore. In fact, with these seven simple steps split out across 7 days, you can put yourself on the path to super success.
Day 1: Know your super balance
First things first. You need to check your current super balance. The specifics of how you do this will depend on your super fund.
Most (if not all) funds let you log in through a web browser or an app. So you can decide to use a laptop from the comfort of your couch or log in on your phone while on the go.
If you haven't logged in before or forgot your password, just follow the 'forget password' prompt. Or you can contact your super fund for extra help.
Day 2: Educate yourself on net returns
Even if you're not planning to retire for a while, understanding net return is essential.
Why? Well, it can help you compare super funds to make sure you're choosing the best fund for your future.
In a nutshell, the net return is a number that you can use to compare fund returns more effectively. It's basically your investment returns minus fees and taxes.
Day 3: Use online tools to work out how much you need to retire
Everyone's retirement goals are different. It's worth working out what kind of lifestyle you want to have when it's time to retire, so you can plan now.
You can head to your fund's website (or app) to access free online tools to get the ball rolling.
Day 4: Combine multiple accounts
You might have more than one super account for multiple reasons. Usually, it's because you started a new job and forgot to share your current fund details.
Now, while there might be a reason to keep multiple super accounts (such as insurance), it's generally a good idea to just have one.
Having one account means paying only a single set of fees, instead of double (or triple!) the amount. Plus, paying fewer fees could mean more money for your retirement savings.
But before you consolidate, check if this is the right move for you.
Some things to consider include losing any insurance cover from your old accounts, the impact on your investments, and potential tax implications. You can always chat to a financial adviser before making a decision.
👋 Hey there! Here's your reminder to download Aware Super's mini action plan to boost your super in just seven days. Doing these tasks day-by-day can make a real difference to your super sooner than you think.
Day 5: Boost your super
In addition to the contributions that your employer makes, there are other ways you may be able to add to your super.
There are several ways you can do this.
- Salary sacrifice: You request that your employer place a portion of your pre-tax income into your super fund.
- Voluntary contributions: Sometimes called 'personal super contributions', you can also contribute post-tax income into your super.
- Government super co-contributions: Depending on your income, you might be able to receive a co-contribution from the government to help boost your super. You can learn more about this on the ATO website.
- Spouse contributions: Your spouse can also make super contributions to your account if they're eligible.
- Downsizer contribution: If you sell your home to downsize and you're over 55, you may be able to make a downsizer contribution to boost your super.
Just a heads up – all these methods have limits. If you exceed them, you may be required to pay additional tax!
Day 6: Work out what insurance you need
In most cases, super funds automatically provide insurance when you open an account with them when you join.
Usually, you get basic insurance policies for death cover and TPD. And you might be able to opt in for income protection too.
For example, some people may already have insurance elsewhere and already be satisfied with their current level of cover. 'Doubling up' simply adds an extra cost.
Having insurance through super can be quite convenient because it's all in one spot.
Day 7: Keep an eye on your super (and celebrate!)
Congrats on making it to the final day! You've now successfully set yourself and your super up for success this year.
But before you treat yourself, it's important to keep a close eye on your super and see how it's tracking.
Plus, you should check that your employer is paying your super on time. From 1 July 2026, they'll be required to pay your super on each payday.
And that's it! Seven days of not-so-hard work done and dusted.
Learn more about getting your super sorted with Aware Super
Sponsored by Aware Super. Grab your checklist from Aware Super to work through seven simple steps to set up your super in 2026.
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Aware Super is a low-fee super fund with 12 different ways to invest including a MySuper option and an ethical investment option.
General advice only. Consider your objectives, financial situation, or needs, which have not been accounted for in this information and read the relevant PDS and TMD before acting.
Issued by Aware Super Pty Ltd (ABN 11 118 202 672, AFSL 293340), trustee of Aware Super (ABN 53 226 460 365).
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