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AustralianSuper, Aware Super and HESTA calculators compared
This guide compares published descriptions of AustralianSuper, Aware Super and HESTA retirement tools with Pension Pilot’s educational report. It is not a performance ranking or an independent test of every feature. The right comparison starts with the particular calculator and its assumptions.
PUBLISHED FEATURES CHECKED 18 OCTOBER 2026. This is a comparison of published tool descriptions, not a performance ranking or a test of every feature. Tools and assumptions change; check each provider’s current information.
Which retirement tool are you comparing?
| Tool | Published scope and access | Age Pension and household inputs |
|---|---|---|
| AustralianSuper Super Projection Calculator | Explores how long super may last using selected financial inputs. | AustralianSuper describes potential Age Pension support in its official explanation. Its planning guidance also describes entering partner details. |
| Aware Super planning tools | My Retirement Planner is public; Retirement Manager is for members. Check access and the specific tool’s assumptions. | Aware’s Retirement Manager description includes Age Pension estimates, spouse finances and spending scenarios. |
| HESTA retirement tools | The public Retirement Income Calculator page links to Moneysmart’s Retirement Planner. Future Planner is a separate member tool. | Future Planner explores projected household retirement income. HESTA’s Income Stream PDS, page 69, describes potential Age Pension and modelling changes to investments, contributions and retirement age. |
| Pension Pilot | Provides a plain-English educational retirement report based on the information entered. | Review the report preview, assumptions and limitations. Estimates are not a Services Australia eligibility decision or personal financial advice. |
Why assumptions matter.
Different tools can produce different estimates because they use different inputs and assumptions. Check how each handles your partner, assets outside super, Age Pension, investment returns, inflation, fees and tax. Use consistent inputs where possible, and read each provider’s explanation of what is included and excluded. Services Australia determines Age Pension eligibility and payments.
Using a fund calculator
A fund’s tool can be a useful starting point for exploring retirement scenarios. Check whether it covers your household and the income sources you want to model. Your circumstances and eligibility may change over time.
Comparing more than one tool
Compare the assumptions as well as the headline result. Differences can help identify questions to ask a licensed financial adviser or Services Australia. A calculator or educational report cannot assess every consequence of a decision such as downsizing, changing work or borrowing against your home.
Frequently asked questions.
Does Pension Pilot replace my super fund’s calculator?
It can be used alongside other tools. Coverage may overlap, including Age Pension estimates. Compare the specific inputs, outputs and limitations rather than assuming all fund calculators work the same way.
Is Pension Pilot affiliated with any super fund?
No. Pension Pilot is an independent Australian tool, not affiliated with AustralianSuper, Aware Super, HESTA or any other fund.
How should I compare a fund projection with a Pension Pilot report?
Match the date, dollar basis and scenario where possible. Follow each input field’s instructions: a future projected balance is different from a current balance. Keep the provider’s assumptions with the result so you can understand differences.
Apply this to your own plan.
Review the Pension Pilot report preview to see whether it helps with your planning questions. The report is currently FREE for a limited time and is educational and general in nature. Check current fund information with the relevant provider and seek licensed advice before acting on significant financial decisions.