The Federal Government should drop certain superannuation policy changes proposed in the 2016 Budget and tackle structural budget problems through holistic tax reform, a professional account body opined.
The Institute of Public Accountants joined others in urging the Federal Government to drop certain superannuation policy changes, in particular the lifetime cap of $500,000 on non-concessional contributions backdated to 1 July, 2007, and the $1.6 million cap on pension-phase balances.
IPA chief executive officer, Andrew Conway, also urged the government in taking super out of the budgetary cycle and cease the tinkering, adding the Government should only make long-term changes once it enshrines the purpose of super.
"Justifying these changes on the basis it only impacts a small proportion of the population does not justify backdating their impact," Conway said.
"The impact on people's long-term financial savings to fund 30 years of retirement defeats the purpose of what superannuation was meant to address.
"Successive governments have encouraged citizens to provide for their own retirement but retrospective policy changes have made many people feel anxious."
Conway also suggested considering strategies outside of super to fund retirement as part of a wider review of retirement income policy.
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.