RIVERINA residents are not prepared for retirement, suggests new superannuation data.
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The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia shows the average super balance for the Riverina is $123,138, falling behind the state average of $133,643.
The region's top super balance was found by residents of Coolac with an average of $150,332, while residents of Koorawatha have the lowest average of just $69,549.
Wagga's postcode placed fourth with an average balance of $134,195.
The ASFA's chief executive Martin Fahy said geographic factors could strongly influence superannuation account balances - which explains the region falling behind the state.
"Superannuation account balances are tied to income, so areas with a higher proportion of high income earners tend to have higher average superannuation account balances," he said.
"We see this in more affluent suburbs, in major cities, and in some 'sea change' or 'tree change' destinations."
Average super balances also varied with industry and occupation - and for people who are self-employed.
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Dr Fahy said areas that have an above average number of people working in public administration, education or health services will see higher average balances than regions with people mostly employed in retail or transport services.
In many rural and regional areas, Dr Fahy said there is a high level of self-employed people, in agriculture industries. He said the self-employed tend to have a lower super balance.
The ASFA's retirement standard suggested couples aged 65 need $61,061 each year for a comfortable retirement, whereas singles require $43,255.
"The legislated increase in Superannuation Guarantee to 12 per cent of salary will play an important role in helping more people achieve this," Dr Fahy said.
"However, if it doesn't reach 12 per cent many Australians, including those from the Riverina, risk missing out on the retirement lifestyle they had imagined."
The ASFA has called on savers to check their super accounts and consider ways to boost their retirement outcome.