What gets measured gets managed: the importance of knowing your super

Mid-adult man wearing headphones using laptop and looking away deep in thought.

Superannuation isn’t something most people think about often—but maybe it should be. Research from the Super Members Council shows that Australians who understand their super feel far more confident about their finances. 

Nearly 90% of those with good superannuation knowledge say they feel in control, compared to just 60% of those with less understanding.

Even better, people who regularly check in on their super—like knowing their balance or tracking contributions—are more likely to feel they’re in a high-performing fund.

What follows aren’t your usual ‘compare fees’ or ‘choose an investment option’ type tips. Instead, we’re here to help you build the kind of foundational knowledge that makes super less intimidating, more exciting, and, ultimately, a bigger boost to your financial confidence.

Step 1. Understand why super exists

Super is designed to give Australians more financial security in retirement, helping you rely less on the age pension. It’s a system built to grow your money steadily over time through regular contributions and investments. 

The government updates the rules now and then to improve how it works, so it’s worth understanding how your super fits into this bigger plan.

Where to learn more: For a solid overview of the key developments in superannuation, check out the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority's (APRA) handy timeline. If you really want to nerd out, the Treasury website is a goldmine for exploring specific areas of interest, understanding the reasoning behind policy decisions, and staying up to date on major consultations and hearings. Just be prepared to dig around—it’s not laid out for quick browsing.

Step 2. Take stock of your super

Log into MyGov, link your account to the ATO, and see all your accounts in one place. You’ll be able to confirm that contributions are being made, check your current balances and even track down any lost or forgotten super. This step isn’t about making changes necessarily—it’s about getting familiar with where you stand.

Your fund’s portal or app can take you a step further, showing how your balance has grown, what fees you’re paying, and how your investments are performing. The more you know, the easier it becomes to stay engaged.

Where to learn more: Log into MyGov to view your super details through the ATO. For fund-specific info, check your fund’s portal or app.

Step 3: Understand how super can support your goals

Super’s main job is to prepare you for retirement, but it has perks you can use sooner. For example, voluntary contributions might lower your taxable income, and the First Home Super Saver Scheme could help you save for a property deposit faster. Knowing these options could change how you think about super.

Where to learn more: Here at Mozo, we offer a wealth of practical guides to help you understand super’s benefits and how it fits into your financial goals. For detailed information on the rules and specifics of various schemes, the ATO website is your best resource.

Step 4. Stay informed about super changes

Super isn’t static—rules around contributions, tax benefits, and incentives change over time. Staying on top of these updates can help you make smarter decisions and might even give you a chance to take advantage of new opportunities. Whether it’s government announcements or expert insights, knowing what’s happening ensures you stay in control of your super.

Where to learn more: The Treasury and ATO websites are your go-to for official updates and announcements. For plain-language summaries of what these changes mean for you, check out publications like the Australian Financial Review and Mozo’s super news section.

Bottom line

If you’re one of those people who feels a bit in the dark about super, hopefully, this guide has helped shed some light. By understanding how it works, checking where you stand, and staying on top of changes, you’re building the confidence to get more engaged.

From here, you’re in a better place to take further steps—like comparing funds, tweaking your investment options, or finding ways to grow your balance. Super doesn’t have to feel complicated, and the more you engage with it, the more it can work for you.

And as always, to learn more about a wide range of super topics, from how much you should have in super by now to what investment options are available to you, make sure to check out our superannuation guides hub.


Mozo provides general product information. We don't consider your personal objectives, financial situation or needs and we aren't recommending any specific product to you. You should make your own decision after reading the PDS or offer documentation, or seeking independent advice.

While we pride ourselves on covering a wide range of products, we don't cover every product in the market. If you decide to apply for a product through our website, you will be dealing directly with the provider of that product and not with Mozo.