Australia’s superannuation sector is being held back by its slow adoption of technology, Financial Services Council chief executive, John Brogden believes.
While super has been “working well” and “delivering huge benefits” to the Federal Government and the financial sector, Brogden said IT could boost those benefits even further.
“By and large the superannuation sector is effectively allocating capital back into the Australian financial system,” he said.
“Australia’s savings rate is three times higher than it would have been without superannuation. Today, Australia’s superannuation sector is worth $1.8 trillion, it will move to $3 trillion in 2025 and to $5.5 trillion by 2030.
“Our industry hasn’t positioned itself to fully take advantage of technology. However, this is changing as super funds want to remain innovative and competitive.
“Over the past few years, the super industry has been focused on compliance. This focus is shifting to innovating through technology.”
In its pre-election policy document, the FSC highlighted 15 priority reforms, with superannuation featuring prominently, urging both major parties to avoid changing super taxes without a comprehensive tax review.
The Grattan Institute has labelled the Australian super system as “too complicated” and has proposed a three-pronged reform strategy to simplify superannuation in retirement.
Super funds delivered a strong 2024 result, with the median growth fund returning 11.4 per cent, driven by strong international sharemarket performance, new data has shown.
Australian Ethical has seen FUM growth of 27 per cent in the financial year to date.