As long as the debate about the increase of superannuation concessional contributions caps for over 50s continues, untaxed schemes will not be affected by the proposed changes, according to GESB chief executive Michele Dolin.
Dolin said that there was no cap on contributions to untaxed schemes such as GESB’s West State Super scheme, but added this was offset by a ceiling on how much the retirement benefit was concessionally taxed.
“Currently, untaxed retirement benefits can be as high as $1.55 million before the top marginal tax rate is applied,” she said.
Despite this, Dolin said that the industry as a whole was supportive of extending the contributions cap, but expected there to be further discussion before the detail is finalised.
“Superannuation is the most tax-effective way to save for later life. A permanent extension of the contribution cap for taxed funds means that more people will be able to increase their retirement savings,” she said.
Deloitte Access Economics has raised concerns about the government’s recent changes to the Future Fund’s investment mandate, questioning the necessity and implications of the reforms.
An industry body has praised the strong backing from institutional investors for Australia’s transition to renewable energy.
The proposed reforms have been described as a key step towards delivering better products and retirement experiences for members, with many noting financial advice remains the “urgent missing piece” of the puzzle.
Jim Chalmers has defended changes to the Future Fund’s mandate, referring to himself as a “big supporter” of the sovereign wealth fund, amid fierce opposition from the Coalition, which has pledged to reverse any changes if it wins next year’s election.