When Can You Access Your Super? A Simple Guide to the Rules

30 May 2025 | Mind Medicine
Superannuation is one of the most important financial assets you'll accumulate in your lifetime. It's designed to support you financially in retirement - but when exactly can you access it? The rules can feel complex, but once you understand the basics, it's easier to plan your future with confidence. In this guide, we break down when, how and under what circumstances you can access your super.
1. When You Reach Your Preservation Age and Retire
Your preservation age is the minimum age you can acess your super, and it depends on your date of birth:
Once you reach your preservation age and retire from the workforce, you can access your super either as a lump sum or retirement income stream (like an account-based pension).
2. When You Reach Age 65 (Even If You're Still Working)
Regardless of your preservation age or employment status, you can access your super once you turn 65. You don't need to retire or meet any special conditions - it becomes available to you automatically.
3. Transition to Retirement (TTR) - While You're Still Working
If you've reached your preservation age but aren't ready to retire, you might be eligible for a Transition to Retirement (TTR) strategy. This allows you to: - Reduce your working hours - Supplement your income with your super (via a TTR pension) It's a useful way to ease into retirement while maintaining financial stability.
4. Early Access to Super-Special Circumstances
There are limited cases where you may access your super early: a) Severe Financial Hardship - You've received government support for 26 consecutive weeks. - You're unable to meet reasonable and immediate living expense. b) Compassionate Grounds You may be eligible for the compassionate release of superannuation in specific situations, such as: - Medical treatment for you or a dependent - Mortgage payments to prevent foreclosure - Modifications to your home for severe disability c) Terminal Illness or Permanent Incapacity If you're diagnosed with a terminal illness or are permanently incapacitated and unable to work, you may be eligible to access your super in full. d) Temporary Residents Leaving Australia If you've worked in Australia on a temporary visa, you may be able to withdraw your super when you leave permanently (via Departing Australia Superannuation Payment - DASP).

Ready to Take Control of Your Superannuation?

Superannuation is there to fund a secure, comfortable retirement. Knowing when you can access it - and how - is key to avoiding unnecessary tax, penalties, or poor financial planning. If you're unsure about your options, speak with a licensed financial adviser or your super fund for personalized guidance. Explore the ATO to get a better understanding of your super.
If you are struggling with a mental health crisis or you just need a listening ear, don’t let another day go by. Reach out for help today. Mind Medicine takes appointments for psychiatric assessments or psychotherapy, so please get in touch.
Mind Medicine Pty Ltd Shop 2, 1 Newspaper Place Maroochydore QLD 4558 Tel: +61 7 3040 8208 Fax: 02 5619 2021 ABN: 92 625 381 302
NAVIGATION
CONTACT INFO
+61 7 3040 8208
mymindmedicine.com.au
Please email us to receive the quickest response to your questions and enquiries.
Dr Lana LubimoffRegistered Medical Specialist in Adult, Adolescent, and Child, Psychiatry Clinical Psychotherapist and PACFA Accredited SupervisorMBBS FRANZPMedicare Provider No. 569219FJ
David MandrakePractice Manager, Mental Health Case Manager and Counsellor Board Certified Hypnotherapist Member of the Australian Counselling Association