Even small amounts add up in the long run, so add as much or as little as you can.

You can contribute to super in various ways, but the most popular methods are outlined below.

Salary sacrifice

This is a way to contribute to super using your pre-tax earnings, which can therefore reduce the amount of tax you pay to the tax man each year.

Whether you’ve just entered the workforce, or you’re looking forward to retiring in the next few years, salary sacrifice is a great way to save for your future. While it is best to start early, it’s never too late! In fact, in the lead up to retirement, you can use salary sacrifice very effectively by combining it with a transition to retirement strategy. Download this document for detailed examples of transition to retirement strategies.

To find out more about salary sacrificing, including how to start, please visit vicsuper.com.au/salarysacrifice

Personal contributions

These are after-tax contributions which can make you eligible for the Government co-contribution.

If your income is less than $61,920 this financial year and you lodge a tax return for the year, you may be eligible for the co-contribution scheme. The Government will match eligible super contributions dollar for dollar up to $1,000 if your income is less than $31,920 in the 2009/10 financial year – you can’t find a better deal than that!

Visit vicsuper.com.au/cocontribution for more information on the Government co-contribution and eligibility requirements, plus details on how to start personal contributions.