‘’Failed” funds named, How super is taxed, SMSF succession planning, Recontribution strategy explained, Age Pension increase
Highlights of the September 2021 edition of the SuperGuide Premium newsletter include:
- THE DIRTY (BAKER’S DOZEN): Be alert but not alarmed is the message for members of one of APRA’s 13 “failed” funds.
- SUPER AND TAXES: Super is the most tax-effective vehicle for retirement savings, but there is still tax to pay along the way.
- WHO WILL CONTROL YOUR SMSF? Succession planning is vital to ensure your super ends up in the right hands.
- INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVICE: A financial adviser now needs to tell you if they are not independent. We detail why it’s important, what makes an adviser truly independent, and how to find one.
- RECONTRIBUTION CASE STUDY: How withdrawing super and putting it back in again can save tax and aid estate planning.
- AGE PENSION INCREASE: With rates about to rise, we explain how the Age Pension works and how to get your fair share.
SUPER NEWS
Super news for September 2021
Underperforming funds now need to tell APRA why, Re-contributions of Covid-19 early release super withdrawals allowed, Separating couples can request partner’s super information, SMSFs numbers increase in June quarter, Retirees experience higher inflation, SMSF investors fuel growth in ETFs, Colonial First State in Federal Court.
SUPER FUNDS
APRA’s performance test: Is your super underperforming?
APRA’s annual test names the super funds and investment options falling short, and what happens next if yours is one of them.
The big picture: Focus on super’s long-term returns
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so we’ve created a visual representation of super’s value in the long run.
Your future now stapled to your super
New legislation will ‘staple’ members to their first super fund until they retire unless they choose otherwise. There are benefits but also some pitfalls to be aware of.
Super fund mergers: What does it mean for members?
If your fund is involved in a merger, don’t panic. You could end up better off, but you do need to make sure your new fund is still a good fit.
Super fund performance: Monthly returns to September 2026
Super funds dipped in September, with the median Growth fund down 0.4% as shares and bonds fell, but a weaker Australian dollar helped limit the loss.
SUPER AND TAX
Super for beginners: How super is taxed
Super is a very tax-effective vehicle for your retirement savings, but no-one said the taxation of super was simple. Here’s a quick overview.
Accessing super after 60: Is it really tax free?
Once you turn 60 and start withdrawing your super, the tax advantages of the super system come into play. But what does it mean for your tax return?
Accessing super before 60: How much tax will you pay?
If you’re eligible and thinking about tapping into your super before you turn 60, it’s worth checking the tax implications first.
SMSFs
SMSF estate and succession planning: What’s the difference?
When planning who gets what when you die, many people forget about their SMSF. It’s not just about the distribution of fund assets, but who’s in control.
Real DIY super: How to keep SMSF costs super low
With the cost of living front of mind, you could potentially save a lot of money by doing more of your SMSF tasks yourself, but you need to know what you’re doing.
ETFs for SMSFs: How they work and what they cost
Building a diversified portfolio takes time and effort, but ETFs make it easier for SMSF investors. Here’s how they work and what they cost.
Multigenerational SMSFs: Benefits and pitfalls
Now that SMSFs can have up to six members, it makes it easier to bring the whole family into the super fold, but it’s important to look before you leap.
RETIREMENT PLANNING
Sorry, no posts matched your criteria.
What happens when you meet a financial adviser
Before you select a financial adviser, it’s important to understand what you want to achieve and how to prepare for your first meeting.
Case study: Super recontribution strategy to reduce death benefits tax
Taking money out of super and recontributing it straight back sounds pointless, until you see what it does to the tax your children pay.
AGE PENSION
Age Pension rates (from 20 September 2026)
Age Pension rates are rising again, but how much you actually get depends on your assets and income. Check the latest rates and figures.
Age Pension Work Bonus: How it works and case studies
Age Pensioners may be surprised how much they can work and earn additional income without impacting their pension.
Age Pension income test rules (from September 2026)
A common question for those nearing or in retirement is “How much can a pensioner earn before it affects the pension?”.
Age Pension assets test rules (from September 2026)
Age Pension assets test limits change three times a year, but your family home is never counted. Check the latest limits and what else is included.
Age Pension calculator (September 2026 update)
Our Age Pension calculator gives you an estimate of your potential Age Pension entitlements based on your situation, assets and income.
Quiz: Age Pension rules
Take our 10-question quiz to test your knowledge on the Age Pension rules.
