Super Co-contribution in 2026: Who’s Eligible and How to Make the Most of It

The super co-contribution is a government initiative designed to encourage voluntary retirement savings among Australians earning a modest income. When you make a personal (after-tax) contribution to your super fund, the government may contribute an extra amount, up to a set maximum each year. This is intended to help you grow your super balance faster, especially if you’re not able to contribute large amounts on your own.

In 2026, the scheme continues to offer a matching contribution—typically 50 cents from the government for every $1 you contribute, up to a maximum government payment. The actual amount you receive depends on your income and how much you contribute during the financial year.

The maximum government co-contribution is capped each year. If you make a personal after-tax contribution of $1,000 and your income is below the lower threshold, you may receive the full maximum co-contribution. If your income is above this threshold but below the upper limit, the amount you receive reduces gradually. Once your income reaches the upper threshold, you are no longer eligible for the co-contribution.

To qualify for the super co-contribution in 2026, you generally need to meet the following criteria:

• Personal Contribution: You must make a personal after-tax (non-concessional) contribution to your super fund during the financial year.
• Income Requirements: Your total income must fall below the upper income threshold for the year. The co-contribution reduces as your income increases and is not available above a certain limit.
• Work Test: You need to earn at least 10% of your total income from employment or running a business.
• Age Limit: You must be under 71 years old at the end of the financial year.
• Residency: You must be a permanent resident or citizen (temporary visa holders are generally not eligible, with some exceptions).
• Super Balance Cap: Your total super balance must be below the general transfer balance cap at the start of the financial year.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, it’s worth reviewing your income and personal circumstances before making a contribution.

Example Scenarios

• If you work part-time and your income is below the lower threshold, contributing $1,000 from your after-tax savings could see the government add the maximum co-contribution to your super.
• If your income is above the lower threshold but below the upper limit, your co-contribution will be reduced on a sliding scale.

The process for receiving the super co-contribution is straightforward. Once you make your personal after-tax contribution and lodge your tax return for the financial year, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will assess your eligibility. If you qualify, the government will pay the co-contribution directly into your super fund—there’s no separate application required.

Steps to Take

1. Check Your Eligibility: Review your income and work status to confirm you meet the requirements.
2. Make a Personal Contribution: Deposit your chosen amount into your super fund as a non-concessional (after-tax) contribution before 30 June.
3. Ensure Your Details Are Up to Date: Make sure your super fund has your tax file number and correct personal information to avoid delays.
4. Lodge Your Tax Return: After the end of the financial year, submit your tax return as usual. The ATO will use this information to determine your entitlement.

Making the most of the co-contribution scheme can help you get the best possible boost to your retirement savings. Here are some practical tips:

1. Contribute Early in the Year

While you have until 30 June to make your contribution, adding to your super earlier gives your money more time to benefit from investment growth. This can make a difference over the long term.

2. Monitor Your Income

If your income is close to the eligibility thresholds, use available calculators or tools to estimate your entitlement before making a contribution. This can help you decide how much to contribute and whether you’re likely to receive the co-contribution.

3. Meet the Work Test if Required

If you’re aged 67 or over, you may need to meet the work test to be eligible to contribute to super and receive the co-contribution. Check the current rules to ensure you qualify.

4. Keep Good Records

Ensure your super fund has your tax file number and up-to-date contact details. This helps the ATO match your contribution and pay the co-contribution without unnecessary delays.

With ongoing cost-of-living pressures, many Australians find it challenging to save for retirement. The super co-contribution remains one of the few ways to receive a government top-up on your personal savings, making it a valuable tool for those who qualify.

Even small contributions can add up over time. The combination of your own savings and the government’s co-contribution, invested over many years, can make a noticeable difference to your super balance by the time you retire.

The scheme is especially helpful for:

• Casual and part-time workers
• Self-employed individuals who may not receive compulsory employer super
• People returning to the workforce after a break

If you’re eligible for the super co-contribution, consider how it fits into your broader financial goals. Regularly reviewing your income, making contributions when possible, and understanding the rules can help you take full advantage of the scheme.

For more information on building your financial security, see our finance guide.

• The super co-contribution is a government initiative to help low and middle-income earners grow their super.
• Eligibility depends on your income, work status, age, and super balance.
• Making a personal after-tax contribution before 30 June could see the government add to your super automatically after you lodge your tax return.
• Even small contributions can make a difference over time, thanks to compounding investment returns.

If you think you might be eligible, review your situation before the end of the financial year and consider making a contribution to boost your retirement savings.