Telstra Super has launched a new online tool that goes beyond calculating one's retirement savings - introducing a new calculator that takes into account career breaks, having time off for children, and even a holiday to the Bahamas.

The Telstra Super Simulator allows users to generate a realistic whole-of-life snapshot of how their current savings plan positions them for retirement.

The tool goes beyond calculating an end benefit based solely on contributions - it can consider a partner's situation, as well as any non-super savings and expenditure, in order to provide a snapshot of a household's likelihood of enjoying a comfortable retirement.

It also shows a user how heavily they would rely on the Age Pension as a source of income.

Potential career breaks, such as having time off for children, are catered for and the projections adjust instantly to reflect lifestyle events - even changes in savings behaviour as they are recorded by the user.

Taking it one step further, the simulator will also factor in what people may be considering to spend on an overseas trip, a new car, debt reduction or other large expenditure to commence their new lifestyle.

"The Telstra Super Simulator enables our members and website visitors to consider the impact that a variety of financial climates and market changes could have on their super
balance," said Kevin Moloney, general manager of client development, marketing & communications.

"At the click of a button, different market climates are simulated and the projected retirement savings levels automatically adjust, making this an extremely useful
tool for people at all stages of life," he said.

Telstra Super is the latest super fund to launch or upgrade its technology tools to help members understand their super better.

First State Super launched an iPhone app that allows its 530,000 members to monitor their super anytime.

The fund also created a website that seeks to empower and inform women about their super, www.womenandsuper.com.au.

Industry fund Intrust Super is also making use of technology by creating a new online advice system that gives members free access to real-time personal advice on super, insurance and salary sacrifice options.