The superannuation industry has broadly welcomed a Government announcement that no paperwork will attach to lower income earners accessing the low-income superannuation contribution.
Both the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) and the Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees (AIST) have welcomed the announcement by the Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, Bill Shorten.
Shorten announced the Government would streamline the Low Income Superannuation Contribution (LISC) so that individuals automatically benefited from it without being burdened with extra paperwork.
"Rather than requiring eligible workers to fill out a tax return or other type of form, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will verify an individual's income using available data," he said.
ASFA chief executive, Pauline Vamos said the move would ensure equity in the system and no impose an undue burden on the least well off.
As the Australian financial landscape faces increasing scrutiny from regulators, superannuation fund leaders are doubling down on their support for private markets, arguing these investments are not just necessary but critical for long-term financial stability.
Australian Retirement Trust (ART) is leaning on its private asset allocation to help shield members from ongoing market volatility, as its chief economist stresses the importance of long-term thinking and diversification.
AustralianSuper is poised to cement its leadership in the superannuation landscape over the next five years, with fresh research forecasting a sharp shift in the sector’s power dynamics.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has warned that significant liquidity pressures could arise in the superannuation sector if multiple risks materialise at once, potentially amplifying shocks in the financial system.