Retirement marks the start of a new chapter. After years of building your super, the focus now shifts from growing your savings to making the most of them.
Whether you’ve just retired or have been enjoying retirement for some time, take a moment to review your situation. It can help you feel confident about the years ahead.
5 key things to consider once you’ve retired
Social & Health tips
Keeping active and staying engaged can play a big part in enjoying this next stage of life.
Read them now
Your super needs to last
You’re still investing
Understand your income sources
Keep an eye on your spending
Plan for the unexpected
Keeping your income sustainable
Your super may need to support you for 20-30 years or more, so it’s important to find the right balance between enjoying your money today and making sure it lasts into the future.
Spending too quickly can reduce your income later in life. Being too cautious may limit your lifestyle now.
A sustainable drawdown strategy helps you maintain financial confidence throughout retirement, even as your needs change over time.
Think about:
- How long your savings may need to last
- Whether your current withdrawals are sustainable
- Whether your spending still aligns with your long-term goals
Need Advice?
If you would like financial advice, we can connect you with an adviser*. When decisions matter, remember you can always talk to a real person. Our team is ready to help you.
The Australian Government’s Moneysmart website also offers practical information about:
- Making your money last in retirement.
- How your super and non-super retirement income is taxed.
- How to plan for health-related costs in retirement.
- Different living arrangements available to you in retirement.
- The Australian Government, community organisations and charities that can offer help if you need it.
We’re with you for life.
Review your investment strategy over time
Retirement doesn’t mean your money stops working. If you’re in an account-based pension, your balance remains invested and continues to fluctuate with markets.
Choosing the right investment mix can help balance:
- Stability (to manage short-term market changes)
- Growth (to help protect against inflation over time)
It can feel natural to reduce risk in retirement, but moving too conservatively too early may limit your ability to keep pace with rising costs. Because retirement can last decades, maintaining some exposure to growth assets may help support your income in the long term.
Our investment options
Australian Food Super offers a range of options. You can select one option or spread your investment across several. Please refer to the Investment Guide for more details of these investment options.
| Lower to medium risk options | Growth-focused options |
| Secure | Growth |
| Capital Stable | Australian Shares |
| Conservative Balanced | International Shares |
| Balanced |
Need help choosing?
You can learn more about our investment options here. If you’re unsure what’s right for you, seeking financial advice can help you align your investments with your retirement goals.
Or get support if you’re unsure what’s right for you:
- Call us on 1800 808 614
- Email service@ausfoodsuper.com.au
- Or access advice at no extra cost to help find an investment strategy that suits your needs.
We’re with you for life.
Know where your money comes from
Most retirees rely on a combination of income sources, such as:
- Superannuation (account-based pension payments)
- Government support, such as the Age Pension (if eligible)
- Personal savings or other investments
Understanding how these sources work together can help you plan more confidently and avoid unexpected shortfalls.
Stay on top of entitlements
You may be eligible for government support or concessions that can supplement your income. These can make a meaningful difference to your overall financial position. The Australian Government’s Moneysmart website offers further information for you on possible entitlements.
Need advice?
If you would like financial advice, we can connect you with an adviser*. When decisions matter, remember you can always talk to a real person. Our team is ready to help you. Call 1800 808 614.
We’re with you for life.
Adjusting as life changes
Your spending patterns are likely to evolve in retirement.
In the early years, you may spend more on travel, hobbies, or lifestyle activities. Later, healthcare and day-to-day living costs may become more significant. Regularly reviewing your budget helps ensure your income continues to support your lifestyle.
Consider:
- Reviewing your budget at least once a year
- Checking that your spending still reflects your priorities
- Adjusting for changes in health, lifestyle, or family needs
Staying aware of your spending helps you make confident decisions about how much you can enjoy today while still planning for tomorrow.
Building flexibility into your finances
Life doesn’t always follow a set plan. Markets change, costs shift, and personal circumstances evolve over time. Having flexibility in your financial plan can help you respond with confidence when the unexpected happens.
This may include:
- Keeping a cash buffer or accessible savings
- Planning for irregular expenses such as home maintenance or medical costs
- Reviewing your income strategy if circumstances change
- Protecting your financial wellbeing
It’s also important to consider:
- Insurance needs (where relevant in retirement)
- Estate planning and beneficiary nominations. Make sure your beneficiary nomination is up to date.
- Ensuring your wishes for your super are up to date
These steps can provide peace of mind that your finances are aligned with your intentions.
Your wellbeing in retirement
Financial wellbeing is closely connected to overall wellbeing. Retirement is also a time to focus on what supports a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle.
Staying socially connected, physically active, and mentally engaged can all contribute to a more enjoyable retirement. Whether it’s joining community groups, maintaining routines, or trying new activities, small choices can have a big impact on quality of life. Check out our Social and Health tips.
Social & Health tips
… because a fulfilling retirement isn’t just about your finances.
Read them now
Need help?
If you would like financial advice, we can connect you with an adviser*. When decisions matter, remember you can always talk to a real person. Our team is ready to help you. Call 1800 808 614.