Superannuation

Superannuation planning helps you make informed decisions about how your super is invested, how much you contribute, and how to manage fees and insurance. With the right plan, you can take advantage of tax-effective contribution strategies, select investment options that suit your goals and risk tolerance, and guidance at key life stages – helping you build confidence and maximise your retirement savings.

Non-government super refers to superannuation funds that operate outside traditional public sector schemes. Funds like NGS Super are open to a wide range of Australians, including those working in education, community services, not-for-profit organisations and the private sector, including teachers in both government and non-government schools.

Non-government super funds are typically open to people across a wide range of industries and employers. In the education sector, most teachers today join public offer super funds, including those that may be nominated as default funds by employers.

While some long-standing government super schemes still exist, these are generally legacy arrangements that are closed to new members. Modern super funds operate under the same superannuation regulations, offering flexibility in investment options, contributions, and retirement choices.

You can usually access your super when you reach your preservation age and meet a condition of release, such as retiring. In limited circumstances, you may be able to access your super early, subject to strict rules.

When you change jobs, your super stays invested and continues to grow. You can usually choose to keep your existing super fund or join your new employer's default fund. If you'd like your employer contributions to continue being directed to NGS Super, you'll need to provide your new employer with your NGS account details. Simply complete our Superannuation Choice form and provide it to your new employer.

You can make super contributions through your employer, by making salary sacrifice contributions, or by adding extra voluntary after-tax contributions. Contribution limits and tax rules apply.

Super accounts generally charge fees and costs for administration and investment management. Understanding your super fees can help you understand how they affect your super balance over time.

Eligible members receive a default level of insurance cover to protect them through their working life. You will receive default cover automatically when you're eligible, or you can opt in to receive cover. The amount and cost of cover will depend on your age and the insurance category that applies to you. You can also apply to increase, decrease or cancel your cover at any time, subject to the fund's terms and conditions.

When you retire, your super can move from saving for retirement to providing you with a retirement income. Eligible members can access their super as an NGS Income Account to pay a regular income during their retirement, with the flexibility to withdraw lump sum amounts as they are needed.

It's never too early to start superannuation planning. The earlier you engage with your super, the more time your money has to grow through investment returns and compound earnings. Even small decisions early in your career – such as choosing the right fund, consolidating accounts, or making extra contributions – can make a meaningful difference to your retirement balance over time.