Balance the scales in superannuation

The theme for this International Women’s Day is Balance the Scales, encouraging everyone to take a close look at the systems that shape our lives, including superannuation. Financial systems should work for women, not against them. When women have greater financial security, they have more freedom, confidence, and choice when planning their future and retirement.

The superannuation gap

For many women, superannuation is one of the most significant yet unequal systems shaping long-term financial wellbeing. The current median super balance for Australian males aged 60–64 is $205,385, whilst women of the same age only have a median balance of $153,685.¹

This superannuation gap is driven by persistent gender pay gaps, unpaid caring responsibilities, insecure or part-time work, and career interruptions.² Together, these factors reduce women’s lifetime super contributions and impact women’s retirement outcomes.³ Closing the superannuation gap is essential to improving economic equality and long-term financial security for women.

NGS Super Specialist, Tana Brink, is passionate about financial literacy and superannuation for women.

NGS Super Specialist, Tana Brink

Learn the basics of superannuation

Tana meets with women across Queensland to talk about superannuation education and retirement planning.

“I speak about super every day, and I believe the key to taking control of your super is to learn the basics,” says Tana. “Understanding how super contributions work, what happens when you take a career break or parental leave, and how you can maximise your superannuation are simple steps that can transform your financial future.”

Building knowledge around superannuation helps women make informed decisions. As the saying goes, “knowledge is power”, and Tana has seen firsthand how learning the basics can put members on track for stronger retirement savings by taking a small amount of time now to review their super arrangements.”

Tana suggests the following ways to get started:

• NGS Super offers a range of free webinars covering key superannuation topics – book your spot today.
• Use the NGS Super Calculator to see the impact of making additional contributions.
• Access a range of articles about super, including compassionate release of super for fertility treatment and the impact of menopause on superannuation.

Boost your superannuation balance

“An easy change you can make today to boost your superannuation is to start making additional contributions,” says Tana.

You can contribute extra funds on top of employer contributions, and even small amounts can significantly increase your retirement savings over time. If you’re not currently working and have a partner, contribution splitting may also be an option. This allows your spouse to transfer certain super contributions into your account.

No question is silly

“Above all, I encourage women to ask questions,” says Tana. “No question is silly. Understanding your superannuation is information that can help you live the retirement you want.”

A great way to ask your questions is to book a free appointment with a Super Specialist. Have a chat about your super today.

Closing the superannuation gap isn’t just about retirement, it’s about financial independence and equality across a lifetime. By understanding how super works and taking action where possible, women can strengthen their long-term financial security and take greater control of their future.

References

1. ‘An update on superannuation account balances.’ - The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (2024).
2. ‘Women's economic security in retirement.’ - Workplace Gender Equality Agency Australia (2020).
3. ‘Unpaid super: the gender impact, Australia.’ - Super Members Council (2025).