Karen began her career as a coronary care and intensive care nurse, spending 20 years in the intensive care unit before moving into the education sector, where she has worked for the past 23 years. At 62 and working full-time as the Executive Assistant to the school principal, Karen enjoys being part of the school community, supporting the principal and getting stuck into paperwork.
Having embraced change throughout her career, she is now preparing for another major transition: retirement. The education and support she has received from NGS Super has helped her better understand her options and feel more confident about the future.
Over the years, NGS Super visited Karen’s school to share information about superannuation, retirement planning, and the steps members can take to prepare for retirement.
‘The NGS Super Specialists visited our school on more than one occasion, and it was very helpful,’ says Karen. ‘What I loved most is that NGS is first and foremost about information and education. It’s never been about a hard-sell to join – ever. The conversations are always about my needs and what I might want to consider. That’s so valuable.’
Karen spoke about her options with the NGS team, and it was in these conversations that she was able to think more deeply about what account would best suit her and what her plan for retirement might look like.
‘It’s becoming increasingly difficult to connect with people on the phone these days. What I loved about NGS is that I didn’t have to search the website just to find a phone number to speak with someone. I’ve had multiple calls, emails, and face-to-face meetings. This means a great deal to me. I think it shows integrity and honesty, and that matters.
As Karen considers reducing her working hours over the coming years, she’s exploring a range of retirement options, including a Transition to Retirement (TTR) account.
Retirement doesn’t have to happen all at once. As Karen looks ahead to her retirement options, a Transition to Retirement (TTR) account could provide greater flexibility. For people aged 60 to 64 who are still working, a TTR account can offer income payments from super. This may help replace lost income if working hours are reduced, or form part of a broader strategy to maximise retirement savings through tax efficiencies.
Learn more about the TTR account
Karen plans to gradually move to part-time work before fully retiring in the coming years. With support and guidance helping her better understand her options, she feels more confident about the transition. She looks forward to volunteering with One Meal, spending time with her church and women’s group, knitting for people in hospital, and enjoying life as a grandmother.
‘For me, being down to earth, honest and genuine is important and finding those qualities in a fund has been great.’
Chatting with an NGS Super Specialist can help you get clearer about your super, like Karen. The service is complimentary, at no extra cost. Chat with a Super Specialist.
The views expressed in this testimonial are the personal experiences of one member and may not be typical. This testimonial was provided for general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information, or making an investment decision, consider whether it is appropriate to you and read our Financial Services Guide, Product Disclosure Statements and Target Market Determinations available at ngssuper.com.au. You should also consider obtaining financial, taxation and/or legal advice tailored to your personal circumstances before making a decision. This information has been issued by NGS Super Pty Ltd AFSL 233 154.
