Inside super
- Earnings are generally taxed at up to 15%, and nil in retirement phase.
- Concessional contributions are taxed at 15% (30% with Division 293) instead of your marginal rate.
- Limited by the caps: $32,500 concessional and $130,000 non-concessional for 2026–27.
- Locked away until you meet a condition of release, generally from 60.
Outside super
- Earnings taxed at your marginal rate (a 50% CGT discount may apply to assets held over 12 months).
- Access whenever you like: for a house deposit, kids’ school, a business.
- No contribution caps.
How people often split it
Short and medium-term goals outside super; long-term retirement money inside. If your mortgage is the main debt, extra repayments or an offset account are a third option.
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Quick answers
Is it better to invest inside or outside super?
Super usually wins on tax, while investing outside super wins on access. Many people use both, depending on when they need the money.
Sources
General advice warning. This article is general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Rules and thresholds change; check the sources above. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Consider the relevant PDS and our Financial Services Guide and seek personal advice before acting. FinForce is authorised under Financial Force Pty Ltd AFSL 238337. Shay has been authorised since 18 October 2011.