Understanding the rules

If you’re under 18, your employer generally needs to pay you super if you work more than 30 hours in a week. This can apply whether your job is casual, part-time, or full-time.

The 30-hour rule applies to each job separately. For example, if you have two jobs, you might get super from one employer but not the other, depending on how many hours you work for each one.

These payments are called Superannuation Guarantee (SG) contributions. They are paid by your employer into your super fund. They are paid on top of your wages, not taken out of them.

Setting up a super fund for the first time

If you start a job and your employer needs to pay you super, they should give you a form so you can choose a super fund. This is called a super fund nomination form.

If you don’t choose a fund, your employer will usually pay your super into a default fund for you.

If you’re under 15, you may need permission from a parent or guardian to open a super account.

Why starting early can help

When you’re young, time is one of your biggest advantages.

That’s because your super is invested. Over time, your money can earn returns. Those returns may then earn returns too. This is called compounding.

Put simply, compounding means your money has the chance to grow on top of growth you’ve already earned.

Even small super payments from a part-time or casual job could grow into something much bigger over many years.

If you earn a lower or middle income, the government may also add extra money to your super if you make your own after-tax contribution. This is called the Super Co-contribution Scheme. There are rules about who can get it, so it’s worth checking if you’re eligible.

Choosing a super fund

When selecting a super fund as a teenager, consider:

Fees: Lower fees mean more of your money stays in your account, which can grow over time.
Long-term performance: Take a look at how the super fund has performed over several years. Keep in mind that past performance does not guarantee future returns.
Investment options: Younger people usually have a long time before retirement – so take a good look at investment options designed for long-term growth.
Easy account access: Online access and helpful customer support can make it easier to keep track of your super.

Super for people under 18