Crossing the ditch: What happens to your KiwiSaver or super when you move between New Zealand and Australia?
Whether you’re chasing sunshine, family, or new opportunities, moving between New Zealand and Australia raises an important question: what happens to your retirement savings?
Here’s what you need to know about KiwiSaver and Australian super, and how they interact under the Trans-Tasman Retirement Savings Portability Scheme.
If you’re moving from New Zealand to Australia
You can transfer your KiwiSaver to a participating Australian super fund, but:
- It must be a full transfer, no partial moves.
- Not all Australian funds accept KiwiSaver, so check before you start.
- New Zealand Government contributions (like member tax credits) are returned to the New Zealand government.
- Transferred funds count toward Australia’s non-concessional contribution caps (currently AU$110,000/year).
- Access rules differ:
- New Zealand – sourced funds: accessible at age 65.
- Australian-sourced funds: accessible at age 60, if retired.
If you’re only moving temporarily, you can keep your KiwiSaver open, but contributions may stop unless you pay voluntarily.
If you’re moving from Australia to New Zealand
You can transfer your Australian super to a KiwiSaver scheme, but:
- It must be a full transfer.
- Unclaimed super held by the Australian Tax Office can also be transferred.
- Funds are split:
- Australian sourced: accessible at age 60, if retired.
- New Zealand sourced: accessible at age 65.
- Transferred Australian funds can’t be used for a first home withdrawal in New Zealand.
- You can’t transfer these funds to a third country later.
- Insurance cover from your Australian super may be lost, check before transferring.
Can you have both KiwiSaver and super?
Yes, but it’s not always ideal:
- You’ll pay fees on both accounts.
- Managing two accounts across countries can be complex.
- Transfers are voluntary, and not all providers participate.
- Once transferred, funds follow the rules of the receiving country.
What should you do?
Before making any moves:
- Talk to a financial adviser, especially if you’re unsure about tax, access, or insurance implications.
- Align your retirement savings with your long-term plans.
- Keep records of your transfers and provider communications.
This information is of a general nature and is not intended as personalised financial advice. RIVAL Wealth is a Financial Advice Provider (FAP) licenced by the Financial Markets Authority to provide financial advice. Our disclosure document is located at rivalwealth.co.nz or a written copy is available on request
