This Valentine’s Day, Australians are falling in love with financial independence

13 February 2026

Amid roses, reservations and romance, a different kind of self-love is taking centre stage, as a growing number of Australians plan for a solo future, funded on their own terms.

New research commissioned by AustralianSuper reveals that 48 per cent of Australians currently rely mostly or entirely on their own super and savings, or plan to in retirement.

The shift reflects an emerging trend this Valentine’s Day of self-sufficiency and rising singledom, where money is increasingly personal rather than shared. Almost nine-in-ten Australians (89 per cent) say financial independence is important, while more than half (51 per cent) associate positive emotions with the idea of retiring on their own income.

While financial independence in retirement is viewed positively, there is a significant gap in confidence between men and women when it comes to their ability to retire solo. The research found 68 per cent of men feel confident about retiring on their own financially, compared to only 46 per cent of women. Further, close to half (49 per cent) of the women surveyed revealed they don’t know where to get financial guidance or feel they lack it.

Jacki Ellis, AustralianSuper’s Head of Retirement, said planning is what turns the desire to retire independently into a future you can feel confident about.

“Taking charge of your own retirement can be empowering, but it can also feel complex. If you plan to retire on your own, you don’t have to plan alone. A range of online tools, support services and expert advice can help people understand their options and build a plan with confidence,” said Ms Ellis.

“Retirement is no longer a one-size-fits-all milestone. This Valentine’s Day, we’re encouraging Australians who may retire single, to start planning now. It might not be the most romantic topic, but taking control of your financial future is one of the most important life decisions you can make.”

AustralianSuper’s top tips for independent retirement planning:

1. You don’t have to do it all solo

Planning an independently funded retirement can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to your super fund for guidance or book in with a qualified financial planner to help you plan your financial future. You can also use online tools, calculators and resources to understand how you are tracking.

2. Find your best match

Your super could become one of your biggest financial assets, so select an investment option that matches your goals, timeframe and risk appetite. Review the options available through your fund and make sure your strategy supports your independent retirement goals.

3. Invest in yourself

If you’re planning to fund retirement on your own, every contribution counts. Consider making extra contributions where possible and check if you’re eligible for the government co-contribution (up to $500 a year for eligible low-to-middle income earners).*

4. Keep an eye out for any red flags

Missing or incorrect contributions can significantly affect your retirement savings over time. Be sure to check your employer is paying the correct 12% super guarantee contributions.

5. Don’t forget the apps

Stay in control by monitoring your balance and contributions regularly. Download your fund’s app to track your super, see the impact of long-term growth and spot any missing contributions early. For AustralianSuper members, download the app here: australiansuper.com/edication-advice/mobile-app

For media enquiries, please contact:

Kylie Breckenridge, AustralianSuper 
M: +61 402 746 226
E: media@australiansuper.com 

Sonia Krien, AustralianSuper 
M: +61 419 368 220
E: media@australiansuper.com 

Notes to editors:

Study conducted by YouGov on behalf of AustralianSuper in January 2026. Respondent sample comprised of a nationally representative sample of 1,006 Australians aged 18+.