Superannuation for international students in Australia how it works is one of those topics that confused me when I first saw it on my payslip. I didn’t know what superannuation was or what happened to it. The information online was complex and didn’t tell me what I actually needed to know. I’ve learned about superannuation, and I’ve watched friends learn about it. Some understood it quickly. Others didn’t. The difference was understanding what it is and what happens to it.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve worked and paid superannuation, and I’ve learned what it is and what happens to it. Some things are straightforward. Others are less obvious. The difference was understanding the basics.
So here’s everything I know about superannuation for international students in Australia, based on what actually applies.
What Is Superannuation Actually?
Let me start with this, because understanding what it is helps you see why it matters.
Superannuation is retirement savings. Employers must pay 11% of your earnings into a superannuation fund for your retirement.
It’s mandatory. Employers must pay superannuation if you earn more than $450 per month and are over 18.
You can’t access it easily. Superannuation is for retirement, so you usually can’t access it until you’re 60 or older.
But here’s what I’ve learned: superannuation is retirement savings, but as an international student, you might leave Australia before retirement. You can claim it back when you leave, but there are conditions.
How Much Do Employers Pay?
This is important, because understanding how much helps you check your payslip.
Employers pay 11% of your earnings. This is on top of your wages, so it doesn’t reduce your pay.
It’s paid into a superannuation fund. Employers choose a fund, or you can choose your own.
But here’s what I’ve learned: superannuation is separate from your wages. It’s paid on top, so it doesn’t reduce your pay. Check your payslip to see if superannuation is being paid.
I’ve written about how to read and understand your payslip if you want more detail.
Can You Get It Back?
This is the key question for international students, and here’s the answer.
Yes, when you leave Australia permanently, you can claim your superannuation back. This is called a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP).
You need to: have left Australia permanently, have a valid visa that has expired or been cancelled, and apply through the ATO.
But here’s what I’ve learned: you can get it back, but there are conditions and tax implications. Don’t assume you’ll get it all back. There might be tax, and the process takes time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do anything with superannuation?
Not usually while you’re working. Employers handle it. But check your payslip to make sure it’s being paid.
What happens if I leave Australia?
You can claim it back when you leave permanently. Apply through the ATO for a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment.
Will I get all my superannuation back?
Usually yes, but there might be tax. Check the ATO website for current tax rates on DASP payments.
What if my employer doesn’t pay superannuation?
Contact the ATO. Employers must pay superannuation if you’re eligible. The ATO can help you recover unpaid superannuation.
Do I need to choose a superannuation fund?
You can, but you don’t have to. Employers can choose a fund for you, or you can choose your own. It doesn’t matter much if you’re leaving Australia.
How do I check if superannuation is being paid?
Check your payslip. It should show superannuation contributions. If it doesn’t, ask your employer or check with the ATO.
Final Thoughts
Superannuation for international students in Australia is retirement savings that employers must pay. It’s 11% of your earnings, paid on top of your wages. You can claim it back when you leave Australia permanently, but there might be tax. Check your payslip to make sure it’s being paid.
Don’t worry about it too much while you’re here. Employers handle it, and you can claim it back when you leave. But check your payslip to make sure it’s being paid.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Check your payslip. Make sure superannuation is being paid. It’s your money, and you can claim it back when you leave. Don’t ignore it.
If you’re still learning about superannuation, check your payslip to make sure it’s being paid. When you leave Australia, you can claim it back through the ATO. Don’t worry about it too much while you’re here, but make sure it’s being paid.
