NGS Super has overhauled its member advice offering with the launch of new digital guidance tools and expanded financial planning services, as super funds continue looking for ways to improve access to affordable advice.
The fund said the changes were aimed at helping members engage with financial advice earlier, rather than waiting until retirement, while also reducing some of the cost and accessibility barriers traditionally associated with advice services.
Central to the updated offering is the launch of the NGS Virtual Adviser, a digital advice tool developed in partnership with Guideway Financial Services.
The platform is designed to provide guidance on superannuation-related issues including investment choice, insurance, contributions and transitioning to retirement, while also directing members to phone-based or comprehensive financial advice where needed.
The rollout comes as superannuation funds face increasing pressure to improve member engagement and provide scalable advice solutions for members seeking guidance on retirement adequacy and day-to-day financial decisions.
Chief executive Natalie Previtera said members were increasingly looking for straightforward and affordable support when making financial decisions.
“Our members are telling us they want help making financial decisions without the complexity or cost barrier,” Previtera said.
“We want to reward the loyalty of our members by making quality advice easier to access, with much of the advice we offer available at no additional cost. Accessing the right advice and guidance can make a meaningful difference to your retirement no matter what your balance or life stage. We know that when members receive advice, they feel more confident and more in control of their financial future.”
Alongside the digital adviser, the fund has expanded the educational resources available through its website, including self-directed learning modules accessible to both members and non-members.
NGS Super said its existing Advice Essentials service would remain available as an introductory personal advice option delivered by licensed advisers over phone, video or through the digital platform.
The fund has also introduced a new service, NGS Advice Essentials Plus, which offers more detailed support on issues such as retirement planning and account consolidation at a lower cost than comprehensive financial advice.
Members seeking broader financial planning support will continue to have access to NGS Advice Platinum, which provides tailored advice through the fund’s in-house financial planners.
Guideway Financial Services chief executive Alex Aracas said digital tools could help simplify the advice process and encourage earlier engagement with superannuation.
“By combining intuitive digital guidance with clear pathways to self-service, Super Specialists or licensed financial planners, NGS Super is making high-quality advice more accessible, more timely and better matched to members’ needs at different life stages.”
Executive manager of advice and education at NGS Super Darryn Studdert said the expanded services were intended to support members before major retirement decisions arose.
“Members now have more ways to engage, clearer pathways into advice, and access to high-quality support well before they reach major retirement milestones. For some, that may be digital guidance or a simple conversation at no additional cost.
“For others, it may be more detailed advice or comprehensive financial planning. What matters is that every member can access the right level of support, at the right time, in a way that works for them,” Studdert said.
Just digital nudges and tips in the fund not advice with an soa and with personal circumstances : no wonder IFA’s are moving members out of funds. They don’t get it.