Eleven Types of Super Contributions You Should Know About
Written by Regina Hocking, Financial Adviser & Director of Rebel Wealth Management Pty Ltd.
When it comes to building serious wealth in Australia, your superannuation isn’t just a set-and-forget box. It’s a highly strategic tool and understanding how to make the most of it could save you thousands in tax and help you retire with more.
Here are eleven different types of super contributions and how they can work for you:
1. Employer Super Guarantee (SG) Contributions
Mandatory contributions your employer makes on your behalf. The rate is 11.5% for 2024–25, increasing to 12% from 1 July 2025.
2. Salary Sacrifice Contributions
An agreement to redirect part of your pre-tax salary into super. Reduces taxable income and counts toward the concessional cap.
3. Personal Deductible Contributions
Voluntary after-tax contributions you can claim as a tax deduction. The concessional cap is $30,000 and includes your employer paid super guarantee and salary sacrifice amounts for 2024–25.
4. Non-Concessional Contributions
After-tax contributions you don’t claim a deduction for. The cap is $120,000 per year, or up to $360,000 using the bring-forward rule.
5. Spouse Contributions
You can top up your spouse’s super and potentially receive a tax offset if they earn less than $40,000.
6. Government Co-Contributions
If you earn under $45,400 and contribute $1,000 after tax, the government may add $500. If you earn between $45,400 and $60,400, you may still receive a partial contribution.
7. Low Income Super Tax Offset (LISTO)
If you earn under $37,000, the government may refund up to $500 of tax paid on your concessional contributions automatically.
8. Downsizer Contributions
If you’re 55+ and sell your home, you may contribute up to $300,000 (per person) to super, without affecting your contribution caps.
9. Carry-Forward (Catch-Up) Contributions
If your super balance is under $500,000 and you haven’t used all your concessional cap from the last five years, you can catch up and claim a tax deduction.
10. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Small Business Contributions
Small business owners can contribute up to $1.705 million from the sale of eligible assets under CGT concessions.
11. Contributions to Defined Benefit or Constitutionally Protected Funds
Special rules apply to public sector and legacy super funds. Complex but worth exploring if applicable to your situation!
Final Thoughts
If you're not using a strategic mix of these, you're likely missing out.
EOFY shouldn’t be a mad dash to plug gaps. Real wealth-building happens when you plan year-round.
At Rebel Wealth Management, we help tailor smart strategies so your super is working harder for your future not just ticking boxes come tax time.
The above strategies are best explored with your tax professional/Accountant and comprehensive financial advice.
Want to find the smartest contribution combo for your goals?
Let’s build a plan together. Book your discover call here with Rebel Wealth.
Further Reading:
Australian Tax Office – Types of Super Contributions
Money Smart – Super Contributions
Regina Hocking
Director | Financial Adviser FChFP, GradDipFinPlan
Rebel Wealth Management Pty Ltd
Authorised Representative 001234469