As you're not earning, you can do the co-contribution each tax year. Deposit $1000 and the government matches it (once your tax return has been lodged). Have a look at this (Mods, government site so I *think* it's ok) Super co-contributions. It might seem like a lot if money but you're getting $1000 for free - just like that *clicks fingers*. It's so worth it if you can do it

You can't stop fees totally but you can manage them better. Have a look at the Your Share website. They act as your 'financial adviser' and refund your compulsory fees and commissions back to you annually. It works a treat! Both DH and I have signed up for this and have both received cheques I received a $50 bonus when I signed up and DH gets a trail for referring me to Your Share

Remember with your super that it's there for the long haul. There is no point focusing on it too much right now as the market changes so much that what may seem like a lot in fees or financial losses can quickly change to massive gains with a market change. Super is long term and that's exactly why you can't get to it until later.