Information update as of September 2026: the Age Pension age is now 67 and the preservation age is 60 for everyone.

The Age Pension age in Australia is 67, and most people can access their super once they reach their preservation age of 60 and retire. From age 60, super withdrawals and account-based pension payments from a taxed fund are generally tax-free.

In this video, McKern financial adviser Kristian Tangan explains why the pension age has risen, how compulsory super has let some baby boomers retire early, how an account-based pension turns your super into a regular income, and why the real question is whether your savings will last. That depends on the lifestyle you want and your assets inside and outside super. He also covers the rare cases where super can be accessed early, such as terminal illness or permanent incapacity.

In this video

0:00 What is the current retirement age and is it changing?

0:35 Why has the age increased?

1:10 How are some people retiring early?

1:50 Are there tax consequences or limits on access?

3:22 Is it important to stick to a plan?

3:54 Other circumstances that may allow early access

General information only, not personal advice.