SFA034 Super in your 30s. It's important to squeeze it in (655 words)

This is the second article in the 4-part series on superannuation through the generations. It covers super for the short and long term, options to increase the balance, how much might be needed to retire on in 30 years’ time and ways to achieve it, and insurance through super.

If you are in your thirties, chances are life revolves around children and a mortgage. As much as we love our kids, the fact is they cost quite a lot. As for the mortgage, this is the age during which repayments are generally at their highest, relative to income. And on top of that, one parent is often not working, or working only part time. Even if children aren’t a factor, career building is paramount during this decade.

Are you really expected to think about super at a time like this?

Well, yes, there are a few things you need to pay attention to.