Industry super funds' high investment returns do not guarantee effective governance, the Australian Institute of Company Directors believe.
The institute is urging the Senate to pass the legislation to ensure independence on superannuation fund boards.
The institute's chief executive, John Brogden, said super fund governance standards must move close to those that already apply to all other Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) regulated entities, including banks, and insurance companies.
"One argument being used by those opposing this legislation is that industry superannuation funds have generated higher rates of return for their members in comparison to retail funds," he said.
"However, current investment returns are not the sole litmus test for effective governance nor is it guaranteed that they will continue if current structures are maintained.
"Good governance practices, including board independence, instead provide for the long-term stability, sustainability, transparency, and profitability of an entity."
A ratings firm has placed more prominence on governance in its fund ratings, highlighting that it’s not just about how much money a fund makes today, but whether the people running it are trustworthy, disciplined, and able to deliver for members in the future.
AMP has reached an agreement in principle to settle a landmark class action over fees charged to members of its superannuation funds, with $120 million earmarked for affected members.
Australia’s second-largest super fund is prioritising impact investing with a $2 billion commitment, targeting assets that deliver a combination of financial, social, and environmental outcomes.
The super fund has significantly grown its membership following the inclusion of Zurich’s OneCare Super policyholders.