The Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) has lent its weight to industry superannuation funds and others urging the Federal Government to reintroduce the Low Income Superannuation Contribution (LISC).
The IPA has used its pre-Budget submission to argue the case for reintroduction of the LISC, with its chief executive, Andrew Conway, saying that in its absence there was little incentive for low income earners to put away extra money in their superannuation.
"This affects approximately 3.6 million Australians who have had their incentive to save extra superannuation diminished and who are likely to become reliant on government assistance in their retirement years," he said. "Furthermore, those earning between the tax-free threshold and $37,000 will be taxed at just 19 per cent, only marginally better than the tax payable by their super fund."
Conway said Australia needed to build an equitable superannuation system that helped those who needed assistance to save for their retirement.
"Up until the 2008-09 financial year, the government co-contributions scheme provided up to $1,500 in assistance to low income earners who made additional superannuation contributions. This has since been reduced to $500," he said. "For someone currently aged 25 years, an additional contribution of $500 per year is likely to lead to an increased superannuation balance at age 65 of approximately $140,000."
The super fund announced that Gregory has been appointed to its executive leadership team, taking on the fresh role of chief advice officer.
The deputy governor has warned that, as super funds’ overseas assets grow and liquidity risks rise, they will need to expand their FX hedge books to manage currency exposure effectively.
Super funds have built on early financial year momentum, as growth funds deliver strong results driven by equities and resilient bonds.
The super fund has announced that Mark Rider will step down from his position of chief investment officer (CIO) after deciding to “semi-retire” from full-time work.