Preservation Age by Birth Date
| Date of Birth | Preservation Age |
|---|---|
| Before 1 July 1960 | 55 |
| 1 July 1960 – 30 June 1961 | 56 |
| 1 July 1961 – 30 June 1962 | 57 |
| 1 July 1962 – 30 June 1963 | 58 |
| 1 July 1963 – 30 June 1964 | 59 |
| After 1 July 1964 | 60 |
Conditions of Release
Reaching preservation age alone isn't enough. You also need to meet a condition of release:
- Retirement — you've left employment with no intention of working 10+ hours per week again
- Reaching age 65 — you can access super at 65 regardless of whether you're still working
- Transition to Retirement — you can start a TTR income stream at preservation age while still working (but with restrictions)
Early Access (Hardship)
You can access super early in limited circumstances: severe financial hardship, compassionate grounds (medical treatment, funeral costs, mortgage default), terminal medical condition, permanent incapacity, or temporary residents departing Australia. These require approval from your super fund or the ATO.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I access super at 60 if I'm still working?
You can start a Transition to Retirement (TTR) income stream, which lets you draw down up to 10% of your balance per year while still working. Full access requires retirement or reaching 65.
What counts as 'retirement' for super?
You've left a gainful employment arrangement after reaching preservation age, with no intention of working 10 or more hours per week in the future.
Can I withdraw all my super at once?
Yes, once you meet a full condition of release. You can take it as a lump sum, start an income stream (pension), or a combination. The tax treatment depends on your age and the components of your super.