Government co-contributions

Depending on what you earn, this government initiative can add to your super savings for when you retire.

Grow your super with Government co-contributions

If you’re eligible and your before-tax income is less than $64,239 in financial year 2026/27, the government contributes 50 cents for every dollar you voluntarily add to your super after-tax, up to a maximum of $500 co-contribution.

This super co-contribution scheme is designed to help low- and middle-income earners boost their retirement savings.

How much can you receive?

The amount you could receive depends on:

  • Your income: if your total income is less than the higher threshold and you make personal non-concessional contributions to your super account, you could receive Government co-contributions. If your income is equal to or greater than the higher threshold you won’t receive any co-contribution.
  • Your contributions: how much you contribute1 from your take-home (after-tax) pay impacts the amount of co-contribution you may be eligible for. The minimum Government co-contribution payment is $20 and the maximum is $500.

For more information, visit ato.gov.au

Eligibility criteria

You may be eligible if you meet the following conditions:

Income threshold

Earn less than the higher income threshold set by the ATO. This includes all assessable income. For more information, visit ato.gov.au.

Work requirements

Earn 10% or more of your income from employment or self-employment.

Super balance limit

Your total super balance must be less than $2.1 million on 30 June of the prior financial year.

Contribution cap

Ensure you haven’t exceeded the after-tax contributions cap for the financial year.

Residency

You’re generally a permanent resident of Australia for the full financial year and lodge a tax return.

Age limit

You are under 71 years at the end of the financial year.
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Check your eligibility

Find out if you’re eligible for the Government co-contribution and estimate your co-contribution amount via the ATO calculator to see how much extra you could receive in your super.
You’ll need to know your before-tax income and personal contributions amount.

What do you need to do?

Things to consider

How much you can afford

Review your budget to work out how much you can afford to pay in personal contributions. Keep in mind that once you’ve added money to your super, you generally can’t withdraw it until you reach retirement or meet another condition of release.

The MoneySmart budget planner can help you work out how much you can afford to contribute to your super based on your financial circumstances.

Investment risks

Understand that the value of your super balance can fluctuate depending on how you’re invested. Make sure you understand the risk profile of your investment options before making extra contributions.

Alternatives if not eligible

If you don’t qualify for the Government co-contribution, you could consider other options, such as claiming a tax deduction or salary sacrificing to your super.

Tax deduction vs Government co-contribution

If you claim a tax deduction for all of your contributions, you won’t be eligible to also receive the Government co-contribution. Consider which option would give you the greatest financial benefit. You can also seek financial advice for more information.

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