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With the end of the financial year approaching, many Australians are looking for ways to strengthen their financial position before 30 June.
One opportunity that is often overlooked is the Government Super Co-contribution scheme. If you're a low or middle-income earner and make a personal after-tax contribution to your super, the government may contribute up to $500 directly into your super account.
How Does It Work?
The co-contribution is designed to encourage Australians to build their retirement savings.
For eligible individuals, the government contributes 50 cents for every $1 of personal after-tax contributions made to super, up to a maximum government contribution of $500. This means contributing $1,000 to your super could result in an additional $500 being added by the government.
Who May Be Eligible?
While eligibility depends on several factors, you generally need to:
Make a personal after-tax (non-concessional) contribution to your super fund
Earn income below the relevant threshold for the current financial year
Receive at least 10% of your income from employment or running a business
Be under age 71 at the end of the financial year
Lodge your tax return and have your TFN linked to your super account
Not have contributed more than your non-concessional contribution cap
Have a total superannuation balance less than the general transfer balance cap at the end of 30 June of the previous financial year
For the 2025–26 financial year, individuals with income below $47,488 may qualify for the maximum co-contribution, while a reduced co-contribution amount may still be available for those earning up to $62,488.
A Simple Example
Sarah earns $45,000 per year and contributes $1,000 from her savings into her super before 30 June.
Because she meets the eligibility requirements, the government may contribute an additional $500 to her super account.
That's a 50% return on her contribution before investment earnings are even considered.
Why It Matters
Many Australians focus on tax deductions and salary sacrifice strategies, but the co-contribution can be one of the most valuable opportunities available for eligible earners.
Even small additional contributions made consistently over time can help grow retirement savings through the power of compounding.
Rules keep changing
Australia's superannuation system continues to undergo regular changes, with several contribution thresholds and super rules expected to change from 1 July 2026. Proposed and legislated updates may affect contribution caps, eligibility thresholds and broader superannuation strategies. Because rules can change, it's important to check current eligibility requirements and seek advice before making contribution decisions.
The Bottom Line
If you're eligible, contributing to your super before the end of the financial year could unlock an additional government contribution of up to $500.
It's a simple strategy that may help boost your retirement savings while taking advantage of benefits that many Australians don't realise are available.
If you're unsure whether you qualify, now may be a good time to review your super contributions and overall financial position before 30 June.
Want to Explore Your Super Contribution Options?
The Government Super Co-contribution is just one of several strategies that may help eligible Australians grow their retirement savings.
To learn more about how the Government Super Co-contribution works, watch the Learning Series Video Super Co-Contributions, available through the moneyGPS platform.
For members seeking personalised guidance, the moneyGPS platform also provides access to a Super Contributions Statement of Advice (SOA). Depending on your circumstances, this may help determine whether a Government Super Co-contribution strategy or other super contribution opportunities could support your retirement goals.
The information provided the writer was current at the time the article was produced - 06/2026.