Super Fees Impact Calculator
See how much administration and investment fees could cost your superannuation balance over the long term.
Your results
Calculation breakdown
- Net return
- gross return − annual fee %
Worked example
Over 25 years, a 1 percentage point higher fee on a $100,000 balance with $10,000 yearly contributions can cost tens of thousands of dollars at retirement.
Assumptions
- Fees are modelled as a flat annual percentage of balance; flat dollar fees aren't included.
- Assumes constant contributions and return each year.
How this calculator works
This calculator compares two annual fee percentages against your super balance, contributions and years to retirement, showing the difference in your projected end balance. It illustrates how seemingly small fee differences compound significantly over decades.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as a super fee?
Typically an administration fee, investment fee and sometimes a flat dollar fee — many funds now quote a combined 'indirect cost ratio'.
Why does a 0.5% difference matter so much?
Fees compound the same way returns do, so a small annual difference multiplies over many years, especially on a growing balance.
Should I only pick the lowest-fee fund?
No, consider net returns, insurance and services too — fees are only one part of a fund's overall value for money.
Results are estimates only and are not financial, tax, legal or credit advice.