Industry superannuation funds are fast tracking insurance claims and enquiries from members and employers affected by the bushfires whether they were survivors, fire fighters or those helping with recovery efforts.
It said funds were analysing data to identify members and employers in bushfire areas and working n the best ways to provide them with support in the short-term. Call centre and online enquiries would also be monitored to identify and assess common themes or issues members were facing.
Employers affected by the bushfires could also seek advice and assistance about their situation as it related to super, and workers looking into what support measures might be available for their situation were encouraged to contact their fund directly.
ISA head of research, Dr Nick Coates, said: “Industry super funds stand ready to provide their members affected by the bushfires with the support they need when they need it.
“This is one small way industry super funds can help, by making it easier for thousands of Australians impacted by bushfires to get the information, service and support they deserve.”
The Super Members Council (SMC) has called for a removal of the “outdated” 30-hour threshold for workers under 18 to guarantee all young Australian workers receive a super start to work.
SuperRatings has shared the median estimated return for balanced superannuation funds for the calendar year 2024.
The $90 billion fund delivered double-digit returns in its flagship Growth option last year and remains optimistic for 2025.
A strategic overweight to US and global equities along with an increased exposure to private debt and diversified credit has seen AMP deliver a return of more than 15 per cent for its three largest Lifestage cohorts in 2024.