Condition of release
The event that legally unlocks your super, such as retiring after preservation age or turning 65.
Preservation age tells you when you may become eligible; a condition of release is the event that actually unlocks the money. Both are required before super can be paid out.
The standard conditions are retiring on or after preservation age, reaching 65 whether or not you are working, ceasing an employment arrangement after 60, permanent incapacity, terminal medical condition, or death.
Limited conditions allow earlier access in defined hardship situations. These are tightly controlled, require evidence, and often cap the amount that can be released.
Turning 65 is the simplest one
At 65 the condition is met automatically. You can access your super in full even if you are still working, with no need to declare any intention to retire.
The bit people get wrong
Ceasing an employment arrangement after 60 is a full condition of release, even if you start another job the following week. Many people do not realise a job change after 60 unlocks the balance accumulated to that point.
Common questions
Do I have to retire permanently?
Retiring requires a genuine intention never to work more than ten hours a week again if you are under 60. From 60, simply ending an employment arrangement is sufficient.
What counts as severe financial hardship?
Generally receiving qualifying government income support for a continuous period and being unable to meet reasonable living expenses. A limited amount can be released in a twelve-month period.
What happens to super when someone dies?
Death is a condition of release. The balance is paid to dependants or the estate, with tax depending on the components and the beneficiary's relationship to the deceased.