You can generally access super once you turn 65, even if you are still working.
Superannuation
What happens to my super after 65?
Turning 65 gives you broad access to your superannuation even if you are still working, but it does not mean you have to withdraw it.
Practical guidanceUnderstand the options before making the decision.
At a glance
What to know first
You do not have to cash out your super just because you reached 65.
Tax, contribution and pension rules can affect the best way to use it.
The practical detail
Work through the part that matters to you.
Age 65 is a condition of release
The Australian Taxation Office says you can generally access your super when you turn 65 even if you continue working. Earlier access can also be possible after reaching preservation age and meeting a condition of release.
Access does not mean you must withdraw
You can usually leave money in super if that suits your circumstances and your fund rules. Options may include lump sums, retirement income streams or a combination.
Centrelink and tax can change the picture
Superannuation, account-based pensions and other financial assets can interact with Age Pension means tests and tax. Major decisions are worth checking with your super fund, Services Australia’s Financial Information Service or a licensed adviser.
Before you act
Superannuation decisions can have tax and Centrelink consequences. This page is general information rather than personal financial advice.
Check the current rules
Official sources used for this guide.
Government rules and thresholds can change. These links take you to the source material used to prepare this page.
Australian Taxation Office
Accessing super and legal conditions of release
Check the current government information before relying on eligibility, rates or rules.
Open official source →Services AustraliaRetirement years
Check the current government information before relying on eligibility, rates or rules.
Open official source →Related Later Life guides
Keep going only where it is useful.
Money & entitlements
Can I keep working after 65?
Yes. Turning 65 does not require you to retire. If you receive Age Pension, the important issue is how employment income is treated under the pension rules.
Read guide →Money & entitlementsAge Pension explained in plain English
Age Pension is the Australian Government’s main income-support payment for older Australians. Reaching the qualifying age is only one part of eligibility.
Read guide →Home & housingStaying at home or downsizing: what should I think about?
There is no automatic point at which a person should downsize. The useful question is whether the home still supports the life you want, the costs you can sustain and the help you may need later.
Read guide →When general information is not enough
Talk it through with Liz.
Liz can help connect the general rules to the care and support questions in your own situation. For legal, tax or financial decisions, she will point you back to the appropriate professional or government source.