A National Wake-Up Call
Despite Australia’s vast superannuation pool and record household wealth, only half of Australians feel financially confident about retirement, according to the AMP Retirement Confidence Pulse Report (September 2025).
The report paints a mixed picture of financial preparedness and highlights sharp inequalities across gender, income and relationship status.
AMP CEO Alexis George describes the findings as a “national wake-up call,” urging industry and government to focus on helping Australians achieve greater financial peace of mind. Millions are set to retire over the next decade, yet retirement insecurity remains widespread despite a maturing super system.
Key Findings
1. Gender Gap Persists
Only 2 in 5 women feel confident about their retirement compared to nearly 3 in 5 men. Single mothers and divorced women are among the least confident groups, with fewer than 1 in 5 single mums in their 40s reporting confidence in their financial future.
2. The Income Divide
Confidence rises sharply with income:
- 75% of Australians earning $190k–$250k feel secure
- Just 40% of those earning under $45k share the same confidence
- The so-called “squeezed middle” ($45k–$135k) report below-average confidence despite steady earnings.
3. Relationship Stability Boosts Confidence
Partnered Australians are more financially confident (55%) than singles (41%), indicating a “confidence dividend” linked to shared income and planning.
4. The “Sandwich Generation” Feels the Strain
Australians in their 40s show the lowest confidence of any age group, with fewer than 2 in 5 feeling secure. Balancing mortgages, child-rearing and ageing parents places unique financial pressure on this group.
5. Retirement Anxiety Persists Post-65
More than one-third of retirees aged 65+ still feel financially insecure — a sign that anxiety doesn’t end once work does, especially for those worried their savings won’t last.
Broader Context
Australia’s superannuation system is among the strongest globally, now valued at $4.1 trillion and expected to reach $10 trillion by 2040. However, inequality persists:
- 62% of retirees still rely on the Age Pension
- Only 1% of post-retirement assets are in lifetime income products, leaving many exposed to longevity risk
- Retirees without property ownership face a 20% increase in financial stress.
What Australians Can Do
AMP suggests five practical steps to boost confidence:
- Seek advice from your Financial Advisor or super fund
- Use digital tools offered by super funds
- Visit Moneysmart.gov.au for budgeting and retirement resources
- Follow a planning checklist to clarify goals and income needs
- Explore lifetime income solutions to maximise retirement income at no extra cost.
If you’re uncertain about your retirement readiness, now’s the time to act. Speak with Carrick Aland Wealth Planning today to take control of your future and retire with confidence.
Read the Full Report
- Access the full AMP Retirement Confidence Pulse Report 2025 »
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