Transparency first
Model assumptions
FutureGauge is a simplified educational projection. These notes explain what is—and is not—behind the result.
Dollar values and investment growth
Projected balances are shown in today's dollars. The tool converts the return assumption to a real return using the inflation input, then deducts the investment-fee assumption. Returns are applied once per year and do not represent an actual investment product.
Superannuation
Employer super is estimated from salary and the super guarantee input. A simplified 15% contributions-tax deduction is applied. Accumulation earnings are approximated after tax and fees. The model does not test the concessional contributions cap, carry-forward rules, Division 293 tax, insurance premiums, transfer-balance cap or individual fund rules.
HELP debt
The estimate uses the 2026–27 marginal HELP repayment method and salary as a proxy for repayment income. Actual repayment income can include other amounts. Debt indexation is adjustable and is applied as an annual modelling assumption, not a forecast.
Tax and Medicare
The tax view uses 2026–27 Australian resident individual rates. The Medicare levy is estimated at 2%. Low-income reductions, exemptions, offsets, deductions and family circumstances are not calculated. The Medicare Levy Surcharge estimate uses single thresholds only.
Retirement
Retirement spending is based on the selected percentage of current salary in today's dollars. Outside-super savings are used first, followed by super from age 60. Age Pension eligibility, minimum pension drawdowns, aged care, home ownership, partner finances, tax after retirement and unexpected spending are not modelled.
Important limitations
The projection is deterministic: it does not predict market volatility or sequence-of-returns risk. Results are not a recommendation, guarantee or statement that a strategy is suitable for you. Verify important decisions with a licensed financial adviser and registered tax agent.
Last updated: 28 August 2026.