Yet another survey has revealed those happiest with their superannuation fund are the trustees of self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs).
Further, the survey suggested that up to 14 per cent of Australians have actively investigated SMSFs.
The latest survey has been conducted by RaboDirect, with the 2013 RaboDirect National Savings and Debt Barometer showing that respondents with an SMSF were not only happier but were in better health than those with another form of superannuation.
Commenting on the research, RaboDirect group executive manager Greg McAweeney said being in control of their financial future was clearly a big driver for respondents who had an SMSF.
“While a self-managed super fund isn’t for everyone - you need a certain level of knowledge, money, time and interest to do it well - there is clearly a keen interest and appetite among Australians for this hands-on control of super and ultimately their retirement,” he said. “In fact, our research shows that 14 per cent of the nation researched SMSFs online last year.
“Regardless of where people currently have their super invested, we could all take a cue from SMSF investors by taking a more proactive approach to our financial outlook,” McAweeney said.
The impact of identity theft and its threat to superannuation savings were highlighted in a case that went before the Federal Court at the end of 2023.
A recent NSW Supreme Court decision is an important reminder that while super funds may be subject to restrictive superannuation and tax laws, in essence they are still a trust and subject to equitable and common law claims, says a legal expert.
New research from the University of Adelaide has found SMSFs outperformed APRA funds by more than 4 per cent in 2021–22.
The SMSF Association has made a number of policy recommendations for the superannuation sector in its pre-budget submission to the government.