Super Review understands that Cbus will be appearing at tomorrow’s Senate economics committee hearing.
Following speculation regarding Cbus’ appearance at Senate economics, Super Review has learnt that the fund will in fact be present.
We understand that the fund was initially hesitant, having received legal advice to wait for APRA to conclude its review to avoid jeopardising the outcome before it is finalised.
The Senate inquiry, looking into consumer experiences, choice and outcomes in Australia’s retirement system, is taking place on Thursday.
On Tuesday, Senator Andrew Bragg told Sky News that Cbus has yet to confirm its attendance.
“The reason that I think it’s important they come is because the Housing Australia Future Fund is a centrepiece of Labor’s housing policy. And the one big super fund, which has committed members’ money, which is Cbus, has actually said that they would put in $500 million into this Housing Australia Future Fund. So, the idea that they wouldn’t come and give evidence, I think, is very concerning,” Bragg said at the time.
He also hinted that the Senate may compel Cbus to attend.
“We do have a range of powers at our disposal, but that’s subject to the agreement of Senate colleagues. Those discussions are happening as we speak,” he said.
“If it’s good enough for Qantas and good enough for PwC to be forced effectively to turn up and to engage with the Parliament, I think it’s very important that we maintain that principle because we are looking into matters of great public interest here. There is the CFMEU overlay, but there’s also the fact that this fund is seeking access to taxpayer funds through the crazy boondoggle Housing Australia Future Fund.”
Despite strong superannuation returns at the start of the financial year, super funds could be in for a rockier ride ahead with volatility expected to increase.
An industry veteran says superannuation funds should be doing more to help Australians manage their retirement savings while financial advice remains unattainable for many.
The industry fund has flagged the ASX-listed company for “recent governance failures” regarding its response to allegations made against its CEO.
Funds grappled with a challenging October as SuperRatings reports a modest 0.3 per cent return for the median balanced option.