Cheapest Groceries Australia 2025: Aldi vs Coles vs Woolies

Cheapest Grocery Stores in Australia 2025 — Aldi vs Coles vs Woolworths Cheapest Grocery Stores in Australia: Aldi vs Coles vs Woolworths 호주 장보기 어디가 가장 저렴한가? — 교민 & 유학생을 위한 실전 비교 (2025) TL;DR Summary Aldi remains the cheapest overall for everyday groceries (about 15–25% lower basket price). Coles and Woolworths often match each other on price, but offer stronger online shopping and loyalty rewards. Quality difference: minor for basics, bigger for fresh produce and specialty brands. Use loyalty programs — Flybuys (Coles) or Everyday Rewards (Woolworths) — for cashbacks or fuel discounts. Mix & match strategy: buy staples at Aldi, brand or fresh items at Coles/Woolies. Why It Matters in Australia 2025 With inflation still above target and grocery bills rising, comparing supermarket chains is key to managing cost of living. The gap between Aldi, Coles and Woolworths rem...
Post a Comment

Superannuation for Migrants (Australia 2025): Simple Guide

Superannuation Basics for Migrants: How It Actually Works (Australia 2025)

Superannuation Basics for Migrants: How It Actually Works

이민자/교민을 위한 슈퍼애뉴에이션 핵심 안내 — Australia 2025

TL;DR Summary

  • Employer Super Guarantee (SG) is 12% of ordinary time earnings from 1 July 2025.
  • No $450/month minimum: most employees are eligible; under-18s need 30+ hours in a week.
  • Your super is held in a super fund you choose (or a default/stapled fund).
  • Access is generally from preservation age 60+ under conditions of release, or at 65.
  • Temporary residents may claim a DASP when leaving Australia (tax applies; WHM rate higher).

Concept Overview — why this matters in Australia

Superannuation ("super") is Australia’s compulsory retirement savings system. Employers pay a percentage of your earnings into your super fund. You can also contribute extra (before‑tax or after‑tax) within annual caps. Super is invested, so your balance can grow over time.

For new migrants, understanding contributions, fees, investment options, and rules for accessing or consolidating accounts helps avoid lost super and duplicate fees.

Comparison Table: Super vs Age Pension vs Personal Savings

Feature Superannuation Age Pension Personal Savings
Who manages it Industry/retail/SMSF fund Services Australia (government) You
Money in Employer SG 12% + voluntary Taxpayer‑funded (means‑tested) Your deposits
Access age Preservation age 60+ under conditions 67+ and meet tests Anytime
Tax on earnings Generally 15% in accumulation N/A Your marginal tax rate
Investment control Choice of options (balanced, growth, etc.) None Full control
Best for Long‑term retirement savings Safety net in retirement Short‑term goals/emergency fund

Who Each Option is Best For

  • New permanent residents: keep one super fund; roll over old accounts to avoid duplicate fees; review investment option yearly.
  • Temporary residents (e.g. WHM, student, TSS): consider DASP when permanently leaving Australia (tax applies).
  • Self‑employed: no compulsory SG from yourself, but voluntary contributions can reduce tax (within caps) and build retirement savings.
  • New employees: provide your TFN and your chosen or stapled fund to your employer early to avoid defaulting to a high‑fee option.

How to Set Up and Manage Your Super (Step‑by‑Step)

  1. Get your TFN and MyGov set up: link the ATO service to view your super accounts and contributions.
  2. Choose a fund: industry fund vs retail fund vs SMSF (most migrants start with industry/retail). Compare fees, long‑term returns, and insurance.
  3. Give details to your employer: provide your fund member number or use your stapled fund. From 1 Nov 2021, employers must check for a stapled fund if you do not choose.
  4. Check contributions: confirm SG 12% is being paid at least quarterly; follow up late/missing payments with payroll or the ATO.
  5. Consolidate: in MyGov, roll multiple accounts into one to avoid extra fees (check insurance before moving).
  6. Consider extra contributions: before‑tax (concessional) up to $30,000 p.a.; after‑tax (non‑concessional) up to $120,000 p.a. (subject to total balance limits). Use FHSSS if saving a first‑home deposit.
  7. Review yearly: fees, investment option (e.g. balanced/growth), insurance cover (life, TPD, income protection).

Cost / Fees / Tax Considerations

  • SG rate: 12% from 1 July 2025.
  • Contribution caps: concessional $30,000 p.a.; non‑concessional $120,000 p.a. (bring‑forward up to $360,000 if eligible).
  • Tax in accumulation: fund earnings generally taxed at 15%.
  • DASP tax: higher for Working Holiday Makers (currently 65% on the taxable component); non‑WHM rates lower.
  • FHSSS: can apply to release up to $50,000 of eligible voluntary contributions for a first home (max $15,000 per year).
  • Fees: administration + investment fees differ by fund; small % differences compound over decades.

FAQ

What is Superannuation in Australia?
A compulsory retirement savings system where employers pay a percentage of your earnings to a super fund, invested until you meet a condition of release.
How much super does my employer have to pay in 2025?
From 1 July 2025 the Super Guarantee rate is 12% of ordinary time earnings.
Do I need to earn over $450 a month to get super?
No. The $450/month threshold was removed from 1 July 2022. Under‑18s must still work 30+ hours in a week to be eligible.
When can I access my super?
Generally from preservation age (60 for those born after 30 June 1964) when you retire, or at 65 regardless of work. Early access is limited (e.g. severe financial hardship or compassionate grounds).
I’m leaving Australia. Can I get my super back?
Temporary residents may claim a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP). Tax applies; for Working Holiday Makers a higher rate applies to the taxable component.
How do I consolidate multiple super accounts?
Log into myGov > ATO > Super. Compare insurance and fees first, then roll balances into your chosen fund to avoid duplicate fees.
Can I use super to buy my first home?
Under the First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS) you may release up to $50,000 of eligible voluntary contributions (max $15,000 per year) to help with a first‑home deposit.

Sources / Official References

  • ATO — Super guarantee rate schedule; concessional and non‑concessional contribution caps; preservation age and conditions of release; DASP rules.
  • Services Australia — Age Pension eligibility (age 67+, residency, income/assets tests).
  • ATO — First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS) limits.

Always check the ATO and Services Australia pages for the latest rates and thresholds.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and is not financial advice. Please check official government resources or a licensed financial adviser before making decisions.

© 2025 — Australian Personal Finance Guide

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Car Insurance in Australia (2025): Average Costs & Best Providers

Image
Car Insurance in Australia: Average Premiums & Top Providers (2025 Guide) Meta Description: Compare Australia’s average car insurance premiums for 2025, explore what affects your rate, and find top-rated insurers offering reliable cover across the country. 1️⃣ Overview: Car Insurance in Australia 2025 In Australia, car insurance is an essential protection for drivers, covering accidents, theft, and property damage. As of 2025, premiums have risen due to higher repair costs, inflation, and increased claim frequency. The average Australian driver now pays around A$1,250–A$2,200 per year for comprehensive cover, depending on their state, vehicle, and driving record. Choosing the right insurer and coverage type can make a significant difference in annual costs and claim experience. 2️⃣ Average Car Insurance Premiums by State and Driver Type According to 2025 reports by Canstar and Finder, average car insurance costs vary w...
Read more