With many young Australians facing a sustained period of unemployment due to the economic impact of COVID-19, it is now even more important the superannuation guarantee (SG) is lifted to 12%, a super body believes.
The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) said the cost at retirement for a typical 25-year-old woman who accessed $20,000 in the early release of super scheme could be as much as $85,000 if she was unable to secure employment and contribute to super for two years.
ASFA deputy chief executive, Glen McCrea, said: “If today’s young people are to avoid ending up on the Age Pension, every single dollar contributed to superannuation counts”.
ASFA noted that around half a million Australians has used the early access to super scheme with the majority being under 35 years old.
“Lifting super to 12% of wages will mean more people in retirement can afford decent aged care. It’s not fair that young people should suffer the devasting impact of COVID-19 now and then also be forced into poverty in retirement by relying solely on the Age Pension – we are better than that,” McCrea said.
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The prudential regulator has announced it will publish new expenditure data of superannuation funds, providing details on expenses like advice, director remuneration, and payments to unions.
Affirming the UK’s growing attractiveness as an investment destination, a number of Australia’s largest investors recently joined the UK Foreign Secretary for an exclusive briefing in Canberra to discuss further opportunities for trade and growth.
The specialist superannuation law advisory practice is set to wind up, with managing partner Jonathan Steffanoni planning to bring a new offering to market.
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