Spousal super contributions and super splitting are two powerful ways for couples to strengthen their retirement savings together. When one partner has stepped back from work, taken parental leave or simply earns less, these strategies can help balance superannuation and support long-term financial security.

Spousal contributions allow you to boost your partner’s super directly & if they earn less than $40,000 a year, you may also be eligible for a tax offset of up to $540. This can help maintain super growth during part-time work, family leave or career breaks, ensuring both partners stay on track for a comfortable retirement.

Super splitting works differently. It lets you transfer up to 85% of your concessional contributions (including employer and salary-sacrifice amounts) into your spouse’s account. This can be especially helpful when one partner’s balance is lower or where there is an age gap, as it may improve Centrelink outcomes by holding more funds in the younger partner’s super until they reach pension age.

At Greven & Co, we guide couples through the rules, eligibility and opportunities for both spousal super contributions and contribution splitting. Many clients choose to combine strategies – making a spousal contribution one year and splitting concessional contributions the next.

Over time, this balanced approach can improve tax efficiency, boost total retirement savings and create greater flexibility when planning for the future. Superannuation is designed to support your financial goals & with the right advice, it can support both of yours.