We receive many questions about the concessional contributions caps. We regularly update readers on any changes to the contributions caps (and other super changes), and the implications of such changes on super strategies.The list of 10 Q&As set out below answer many of questions that we have received on the ... Read more
How super works
This section covers the most popular questions on how superannuation works, including how to find lost super, how much super you need and simple step-by-step superannuation guides.
Below are some of our key How super works articles:
Set out below are all SuperGuide articles referring to How super works.
Super contributions before and after age 65
Q: I have a three part question.I turn 65 in January 2018 and would like to make a $325,000 contribution by way of off-market share transfers and cash to my SMSF before I turn 65 ($25K deductible super contributions and $300K non-deductible under the bring forward rules). Will I be able to take advantage of the ... Read more
Listed or unlisted investments? Why it matters for your super fund’s performance
With volatility continuing in global share markets, most commentators are busy trying to work out where listed markets are headed. But before you check your investment crystal ball, it’s worth taking a moment to consider exactly what these investments are, and how superannuation funds blend a variety of investment ... Read more
Super pensions: choosing an investment option in retirement
Most people think all the hard work is over once they hit retirement, but decisions still need to be made about how to invest your hard-earned super savings.Although people often choose to take their super account balance and invest it themselves during their retirement, super funds are keen to help look after your ... Read more
Infrastructure assets: why your super fund loves it when you fly
The types of assets that large super funds select to generate investment returns for their members are often a bit mysterious – just ask our Treasurer, Scott Morrison. Not too long ago, Mr Morrison argued super funds should use their members’ money to buy key pieces of Australian infrastructure, like NSW’s electricity ... Read more
Seeking financial advice? A 5-step guide to obtaining expert help
Now that the July 2017 changes are in place, Australians must make super decisions with a new set of rules, especially in relation to super contributions and super pensions. Unfortunately, more complexity usually accompanies any superannuation reforms, driving many Australians to seek out financial advice.Note: For ... Read more
Problem with your adviser or super fund? A 2-step plan to resolve it!
Knowing who to turn to when you need help resolving a problem with your super fund or financial adviser can be tricky. There are a number of organisations that can help, but they all have different areas of responsibility and can help you in different ways.To help you understand what assistance is ... Read more
Super complaints: What happens when your super fund lets you down?
Most of the time, Australia’s super system works very well and retirement savers are able to take advantage of their super fund’s extensive experience and knowledge in managing and investing their hard-earned retirement savings. But sometimes – even in the best of super funds – things can go wrong or an error is made, ... Read more
Investment scams target males aged 50-plus
Every few years, research is published listing the typical investment scams and the unlucky targets of investment fraudsters. The most alarming trend is that investment fraud is becoming more serious and more organised, based on information published by the Australian Crime Intelligence Commission, and the main targets ... Read more
Asset classes: Naming the investment winners for the 2016/2017 financial year
Hedged and unhedged international shares were the stand-out performers for the 2016/2017 financial year (1 July 2016 to 30 June 2017), according to ratings agency, Chant West.In the table appearing later in the article, SuperGuide presents the investment performance of 11 asset classes, and compares the investment ... Read more
Top 10 performing super funds for 2016/2017 financial year, and for past 10 years
The investment performance result for the 2016/2017 financial year (1 July 2016 to 30 June 2017), for the median growth superannuation fund, has delivered the eighth straight positive financial year return, according to ratings agency, Chant West.The median return for a growth investment option within a ... Read more
Super funds gain 10.7% for 2016/2017 financial year
The median superannuation growth fund gained 10.7% in value for the 12 months to 30 June 2017, although the median growth fund had a zero return for the month of June 2017, according to ratings agency, Chant West.The investment performance result for the 2016/2017 financial year means the median growth ... Read more
