The research highlights a clear link between early planning, advice use and financial resilience – an angle underscored throughout the findings.
The national survey shows that retirees who started preparing before age 40 are markedly more comfortable in retirement, with 75 per cent describing their lifestyle as comfortable. This compares with 44 per cent among those who began planning after age 60, and just 16 per cent among those who did no planning at all.
“Australians who plan ahead generally feel more in control, have greater financial resilience and experience a smoother transition into retirement,” Brighter Super CEO Kate Farrar said.
The report indicates that preparedness is strongly correlated with time spent planning. Pre-retirees who currently feel prepared started planning on average 6.6 years ago and hold mean superannuation balances of $438,000. By contrast, those who feel unprepared began preparing only 3.8 years ago and hold an average of $177,000.
Across the broader population, the Brighter Super Ready for Retirement Index rose to 58 in 2025, up from 53 in 2024. Despite this improvement, confidence levels remain subdued: only 38 per cent of Australians say they feel prepared for retirement, an increase on last year’s 29 per cent but still notably below the 60 per cent peak reported in 2021.
The report also shows a narrowing gap between expected and projected income. Pre-retirees estimate they will need a median of $4,300 a month in retirement and expect to receive $3,300, a 23 per cent gap, compared with 31 per cent in 2024.
Knowledge gaps remain a persistent issue. Fewer than 30 per cent of retirees clearly understand their retirement income options, yet 76 per cent of those using retirement income products report high satisfaction.
According to the report, this suggests strong value once individuals engage with the products – but highlights continued demand for clearer education and guidance. Personalised advice from super funds remains a top priority for members.
“Retirement is shaped by the decisions you make today, not those put off for years,” said Jennifer McSpadden, Brighter Super’s head of retirement.
“While the best time to start planning was years ago, the next best time is today. We want to empower our members to act early, seek advice, and build the confidence they need to retire well.”
Julian Cappe, head of research at Investment Trends, said the findings reinforce the importance of early engagement.
“The findings are clear – starting early builds confidence and creates a stronger foundation for retirement. For the industry, the challenge is to make retirement solutions simpler and more accessible, so more Australians feel empowered to take the steps that can improve their long-term wellbeing,” he said.
