Superannuation members stand to receive a $400 billion windfall following the industry’s recovery over the second half of 2021, according to SuperRatings data.

The research house’s annual review of super fund performance showed the median balanced option returned 13.4% over the 2021 calendar year with positive returns in 11 out of 12 months.

This year’s estimated returns would be the sixth highest over the past 22 years with annualised returns since 2000 sitting at 6.6% per annum.

SuperRatings executive director, Kirby Rappell, said: “Overall, it has been a big year for super. If we look at the long-term, funds continue to perform well against objectives, but it is likely to be a rockier year ahead.

“For consumers, it remains important to set your strategy, stick to it for the long-term and future you will likely thank you.”

According to SuperRatings, this year’s return had been driven by international and Australian shares and property.

The top 20 performing balanced options all returned 13.9% or more to their members over the year.

Hostplus – Balanced was the top performing fund over the 2021 calendar year, returning 19.1%. This was followed by QANTAS Super Gateway – Growth at 18.5% and Sunsuper for Life – Balanced at 16.5%.