5 overlooked retirement tax strategies beyond simple superannuation

When you think about retirement planning, superannuation is naturally front of mind. But superannuation alone isn’t a retirement strategy. Beyond the basics of super, strategic decisions can have a significant impact on retirement outcomes.

Tax laws change, personal circumstances evolve and retirement can span decades. What works at 60 may not be optimal at 70 or beyond. Yet many retirees assume their strategy is ‘set and forget’.

Here are five commonly overlooked retirement tax strategies that can help create more clarity, control and confidence over the long term.

1. Making the most of super contribution windows

Timing matters when it comes to super contributions, particularly in the years leading up to and just after retirement.

Opportunities such as bring-forward non-concessional contributions or downsizer contributions can allow significant amounts to move into the tax-efficient super environment. However, eligibility rules, age limits and total super balance thresholds mean these strategies need to be carefully coordinated.

We often see people miss these windows simply because they weren’t aware they existed, or because they assumed it was ‘too late’ to contribute. In reality, with the right planning, there can still be meaningful opportunities well into your 60s and beyond.

2. Transition-to-retirement strategies done properly

Transition-to-retirement (TTR) strategies are often misunderstood. Some people believe they’re no longer relevant, while others use them without fully understanding the tax implications.

When structured correctly, a TTR income stream can help reduce tax, smooth income as you move toward retirement and potentially boost super balances before full retirement begins. When done poorly, it can add unnecessary complexity with little benefit.

The difference lies in aligning the strategy with your employment income, marginal tax rate and long-term retirement goals, rather than applying a generic approach.

3. Using tax-free pension accounts strategically

After age 60, income and withdrawals from super pensions are generally tax free, provided you have met a condition of release. This is one of the most powerful features of Australia’s retirement system, but it still needs to be managed carefully.

Transfer balance caps limit how much can move into the tax-free pension phase, which means decisions around when to commence a pension, how much to transfer and how to manage excess balances become critical.

Blending, or having multiple pension and accumulation accounts, can provide flexibility and help manage future tax outcomes as circumstances change.

4. Thinking differently about where assets are held

Not all assets are taxed equally. And where you hold them can make a significant difference over time.

High-yield or tax-inefficient assets may be better suited to the super environment, while assets held outside super can offer flexibility, particularly when it comes to capital gains timing or funding lifestyle expenses.

An effective asset location strategy looks beyond returns alone. It considers tax, access, estate planning and how each asset supports your broader retirement plan.

5. Structuring withdrawals with the long term in mind

Many retirees focus on minimising tax this year, without considering the cumulative impact over a 20- or 30-year retirement.

The order in which you draw from super, personal investments, trusts or other structures can influence not only tax outcomes, but also future flexibility and eligibility for concessions.

Lump sums, pension payments and investment sales all interact in different ways. A tax-smart withdrawal strategy aims to balance today’s income needs with tomorrow’s opportunities, avoiding unintended consequences along the way.

Advice that evolves with you

At Apt Wealth Partners, we believe great retirement advice goes beyond numbers. It’s about understanding what you want your retirement to look like, then building a strategy that supports the life you want to live, today and into the future.

Our advisers combine deep technical expertise with a human, holistic approach, supported by digital insight that brings clarity to complex decisions. Most importantly, we recognise that retirement planning isn’t a one-off event. It’s an ongoing partnership that adapts as your life, goals and the regulatory environment change.

If you’re approaching retirement, or already there, now is the right time to revisit your strategy. A conversation with an Apt adviser can help ensure your retirement plan is structured to work as hard as possible for you, so you can live your best life with confidence.

General Advice Warning

The information provided in this blog does not constitute financial product advice or a recommendation to purchase a particular product. The information is of a general nature only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. It should not be used, relied upon, or treated as a substitute for specific professional advice. Apt Wealth Partners Pty Ltd is not a registered Tax Agent. You should consider your individual situation and seek tax advice from a registered tax agent before making any decision based on the content of this document. Apt Wealth Partners (AFSL and ACL 436121 ABN 49 159 583 847) recommends that you obtain professional advice before making any decision in relation to your particular requirements or circumstances.