With duplicate account fees and insurance premiums eroding superannuation savings, consumers should consider getting their superannuation into shape now, according to Industry Super Australia (ISA).
ISA noted that figures released by the Productivity Commission saw duplicate account fees and insurance premiums cost superannuation savings over $2 billion, and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) recorded $17.5 billion in lost superannuation.
ISA chief executive, Bernie Dean, said consumers should take early action to set their superannuation up for the future.
“Consumers may consider consolidating multiple accounts; claiming lost superannuation; and choosing a fund that has out-performed over the long term,” said Dean.
“They should also check they’re being paid the correct amount, as almost three million workers were short-changed their super in 2016.”
The two funds have announced the signing of a non-binding MOU to explore a potential merger.
The board must shift its focus from managing inflation to stimulating the economy with the trimmed mean inflation figure edging closer to the 2.5 per cent target, economists have said.
ASIC chair Joe Longo says superannuation trustees must do more to protect members from misconduct and high-risk schemes.
Super fund mergers are rising, but poor planning during successor fund transfers has left members and employers exposed to serious risks.