Frequently Asked Questions

I don’t know the name of my superannuation fund.
Not a problem! Just complete the application form as best you can, making sure you complete the dates you worked in Australia, and the type of work you did, complete the payment details, and Super Australia Online will find the money for you, providing funds exist.

I have lost all details of my employment in Australia.
Just complete the application form as best you can, making sure you complete the approximate dates, the location, and type of work you did. Complete the payment details, and Super Australia Online will commence the search for you.

I don’t know how much money I have in my superannuation fund.
As long as you have some funds in superannuation, Super Australia Online will find them for you! Simply complete the application form and payment details, and we will commence the search.

I have lost my Australian Tax File Number.
Not a problem! Simply complete the application form and payment details, and we will forward the appropriate paperwork (together with very easy instructions) which will enable you to get your Australian Tax File Number again, and then get your superannuation money.

How long will it take to get my money?
Superannuation funds will normally process applications within 28 days from receiving paperwork. However, some forms need to be sent by air mail which adds extra time. The sooner you complete the application, the sooner you’ll receive your money!

How will I get my money?
You will get a cheque mailed directly to the address given on your application form.

I have friends who traveled and worked in Australia two years ago, can they get their money?
Legislation changed in Australia in July 2002. Even if they worked in Australia before that time, Super Australia Online may be able to access the funds for them.

How do I know what forms are needed?
Super Australia Online will provide you with exactly the forms you need, together with a very simple “checklist” to make sure you get your money as quickly as possible, without hassles.

Do all Australian super funds have to pay out benefits upon application?
As long as you have provided the documentation needed to prove you have permanently departed Australia you should be able to access your funds. (The only exception are “unfunded public sector superannuation schemes”, however it is very unlikely that “temporary residents” were employed by this sector).

What if I don’t know if super was deducted?
Australian employers are required to make superannuation contributions for employees who generally earn over $450 per month. (Exemptionsapply to USA, Netherlands, Portugal, Chile, and Croatia as there is a bi-lateral “agreement” in place with these countries). Super Australia Online will search for funds for you, however, if none are found, we are not able to refund your payment.

How do I cancel my visa?
Just complete our application form and payment details, and we will provide you with the correct form. But first make sure your visa hasn’t already expired!

If I cancel my visa, does it mean I can’t go to Australia again?
No. It just means that if you want to come to Australia again, you will need to apply for another visa.

How will tax be collected?
The superannuation fund will deduct the tax (in most cases 30%) before making their payment to you.

Why are New Zealanders not able to access their super?
With effect from 27 March 2003, New Zealand citizens will not be eligible to access their superannuation funds (even if they are holding an eligible temporary resident visa) as New Zealand citizens may still have retiring rights in Australia regardless of whether or not they exercise those rights.

Why are residents of USA, Netherlands, Portugal, Chile and Croatia not able to access their super?
These countries have an international agreement on superannuation contributions to avoid “double superannuation coverage” and therefore Australian employers are not required to make contributions for them. However, if you feel your Australian employers may still have deducted superannuation, Super Australia Online can investigate for you. Just complete the application form, and payment details. If no funds are found, we are not able to provide a refund.

To find out how Super Australia Online can help you access your funds click here