How Much Should Young Australians Be Investing Each Month? A Clear Framework for 2026

A question young Australians ask constantly: “How much should I be investing each month?”The internet fires back with guesses—$100! 20% of your income! As much as you can!—none of which help you make a decision grounded in your real life.

There’s no universal number. But there is a clear, structured way to find the right monthly contribution for your situation in 2026.

Here’s a practical framework you can use today.

Step 1: Calculate your baseline safety number

Before investing, build a buffer. The modern Australian safety recommendation is three months of fixed expenses. Once you’re close to that level, move comfortably into investment mode.This is financial scaffolding—without it, investing feels stressful, not empowering.

Step 2: Start with the 15% rule (then adjust)

A reliable starting point for young Australians is investing 15% of take-home pay.If you earn $80,000 a year, after tax that’s roughly $1,000–$1,100 per month.Fifteen per cent puts you around $150–$165 per week.

It’s meaningful enough for long-term growth but realistic for everyday life.

If 15% feels out of reach, start at 5% and scale quarterly.

Step 3: Consider your “time horizon advantage”

If you’re under 40, time is doing half the heavy lifting.For example, investing $200 a week from age 30 to 60 at a 7% return gives you around $1 million.Start the same habit at age 40 and you end up closer to $500,000.Same behaviour. Less time. Halved result.This is why even small contributions matter early on.

Step 4: Choose the right structure for your personality

Some young investors thrive with ETFs and set-and-forget automation. Others prefer micro-investing apps as a behavioural kickstarter. The best method is the one you will actually continue.A consistent $100/week beats an inconsistent $500/week every time.

Step 5: Align investing with goals you genuinely care about

A deposit for a home.A future family.A year off to travel.Early retirement.

When your investments match meaningful goals, your commitment skyrockets.

Step 6: Review every six months, not every week

Markets move. That’s normal.Your investment settings, however, should remain steady unless a major life change occurs.Bi-annual reviews keep you confident without becoming reactive.

Young Australians who adopt this structure build wealth faster and with less emotional volatility. The number you start with today doesn’t need to be perfect. Consistency is the magic ingredient.