The Australian superannuation sector and employer groups need to proactively address and prepare for the changes and requirements brought about by the impending SuperStream legislation, according to the IQ Business Group (IQBG).
Funds will need to review the intricacies of current processes and systems for staff, the firm said, as well as business operations and technology infrastructure ahead of the implementation of the legislation if the changes are to be effectively managed.
In particular, the business solutions provider pinpointed the use of tax file numbers, data standards, expanded electronic commerce and ongoing data quality as key action items in facilitating reduced fees and operational costs.
IQBG chief executive Graham Sammells urged funds to begin making changes in order to stay on top of their game. “Smart organisations will develop a roadmap of initiatives to deal with the pending SuperStream changes,” he said. “While all the details are not yet finalised, we are confident that most of the proposed changes will come into effect and there is enough direction to start working on it now.”
A ratings firm has placed more prominence on governance in its fund ratings, highlighting that it’s not just about how much money a fund makes today, but whether the people running it are trustworthy, disciplined, and able to deliver for members in the future.
AMP has reached an agreement in principle to settle a landmark class action over fees charged to members of its superannuation funds, with $120 million earmarked for affected members.
Australia’s second-largest super fund is prioritising impact investing with a $2 billion commitment, targeting assets that deliver a combination of financial, social, and environmental outcomes.
The super fund has significantly grown its membership following the inclusion of Zurich’s OneCare Super policyholders.