A total of 17,313 people across the region have eaten into their superannuation funds early, with a further 3273 draining their accounts entirely.

Industry Super Australia say the number of workers draining their super balance reinforces the need for government to stick to the legislated super rate increase.

ISA analysis shows that if the super rate increase were cut, an average 30-year-old man who took $20,000 from their super would either lose $180,000 from their retirement or be forced to work until 74.

An average 30-year-old female would need to work an extra eight years of have $150,000 less at retirement.

"The only realistic way workers can make up the difference is with the promised increase to the super rate," chief executive Bernie Dean said.

"Ditch the promised super increase and we will be saddling the next generation with a whopping pension bill.

"The youngest Australians would face a shocking double whammy they can't afford if they have to repay the debt government has taken on during this crisis, and then pay for our retirement on the pension."

Figures from the Association of Super Funds Australia show that Riverina superannuation funds are currently sitting below the state average.

ASFA deputy CEO Glen McCrea says young people should "not panic", and need to think twice before accessing their super early.

"We don't want younger people to have the impact of COVID-19 and difficulty in terms of employment, and then to have to face a lifetime of poverty when they retire and get $67 on the aged pension," Mr McRea said.

"If you have taken the money out, now's a great time for them to look at how they can put money in when they are going forward."

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