Analysis by Industry Super Australia found more than 20,000 people in the Farrer electorate had withdrawn a total of $211 million since April when the government announced early access for those experiencing financial hardship due to COVID.

More than 3600 people wiped their super accounts entirely.

Across the border more than 16,000 Indi residents withdrew a total of $170 million from their accounts, with more than 2,800 people effectively wiping out their balance. The average payment for Farrer and Indi residents was $7,500.

Under the government scheme residents were able to access $20,000 tax-free over the 2019/20 and 2020/21 financial years.

Uniting Care Gambling and Financial counselling team leader Kaily Goodsell, based in Albury, was shocked so many people had withdrawn so much money given other supports that were in place during the pandemic.

"I'm a bit perplexed because during COVID while people have been able to access their super, banks have also offered support to hold mortgages," she said.

Mrs Goodsell said whether accessing super early was a wise decision really depended on an individual's circumstance.

She is concerned some people deducted the money simply because they could, not because it was the best decision for them.

"If it is just to boost your income because it is available to do, it is not very wise decision and they will suffer in retirement," she said.

"It will take a long time to get $10,000 back in super."

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The Australian Tax Office is currently reviewing almost 2000 early super withdrawals to verify recipients were eligible to access funds.

People who have accessed their super under the scheme who are found to be ineligible will have to pay tax on the withdrawn amount and could be fined $12,600.

In July, second commissioner Jeremy Hirschhorn told a Senate committee the office did not check eligibility when people applied for the access to their super as it was about "getting emergency money to people".

The ATO told The New Daily 1700 taxpayers had come forward and voluntarily admitted they may have breached the scheme's criteria.

Industry Super Australia warned accessing super early can come at a "steep price".

They estimated a 30-year-old who withdraws $20,000 could have up to $80,000 less at retirement, due in part to loss of interest.

There is also a cost to the public purse, the group said, as for every dollar taken out by someone in their 30s the taxpayer contributes up to $2.50 in increased pension costs.

Mrs Goodsell said before making any kind of deduction from super, residents should consult with a financial counsellor to see if it was the right decision for them.

She said even without COVID residents can able to access their super on the ground of financial hardship but must meet certain eligibility criteria.

"Talk to someone, don't make rash decisions based on something that is happening right now think about future," she said.

"Speak to someone if you are concerned about your finances or you've gotten into difficulty paying debts.

"Financial counsellors can negotiate with creditors, so come and see someone.

"We're free, professional and very good... and can provide independent, non-judgemental and confidential advice."

Mrs Goodsell said residents could also have phone consultations with financial counsellors who could help them explore their options around debt.