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.
Articles by Barbara Drury
Planning to retire this year and start a super pension? Here’s what to consider
As retirement beckons, it’s worth checking the rules around making last minute super contributions and how much you can transfer into a tax-free pension account.
What are lifecycle super funds, and how do they perform?
Lifecycle funds are designed to reduce risk as you near retirement without sacrificing returns; recent research shows many do just that but you need to know what to look for.
Pension fund performance to June 2024
Pension funds enjoyed another stellar run last financial year, with returns well ahead of inflation.
Super fund performance reckoners: Annual returns for 5 investment categories
In these reckoners you can view the median super fund returns for 1, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 15 years across five different investment options for the last 9 calendar years and 8 financial years.
Super fund performance over 32 financial years (to June 2024)
Super funds surmounted a wall of worries in 2023 to post a return of almost 10%, thanks to buoyant global share markets.
Top 10 Balanced super funds ranked by risk and return
While super funds with the highest annual returns capture headlines, some funds and their members place a premium on balancing rewards with a focus on consistency.
How to invest according to your values and address climate risk in your SMSF portfolio
Climate change, sustainability, greenwashing – investing is a minefield these days but there are steps you can take to align your investments with your values.
SMSF statistics: 1.1 million members with $869 billion in super
The size of the self-managed super fund sector continues to grow in terms of members and assets, at the expense of all but industry super funds.
What type of people have SMSFs?
As SMSFs cement their place in the retirement savings landscape, trends in income, age and gender of members are emerging.
How does SAPTO work? (Senior Australians and Pensioners Tax Offset)
If you are eligible for the Age or DVA pension you could be in line for a handy tax rebate, depending on your taxable income and relationship status.
What is the retirement age in Australia?
When (and if) you retire is up to you, but there are rules around when you can access your super and the Age Pension.
Key superannuation rates and thresholds for 2024-25
A new financial year brings updated thresholds for a range of super measures. Take a look at the new numbers to check for opportunities.
Australian income tax brackets and rates (2024-25 and previous years)
Now that the stage 3 tax cuts are law, most Australians will receive a tax cut in 2024-25. Until then, existing income tax rates and thresholds apply.
Accessing super between 60 and 65
Many of us dream of early retirement, but if you need to access your super to live the dream you need to tick a few boxes first, beginning with your age.
Deeming rates (2024-25) and calculator for the Age Pension income test
Under the deeming rules, you are ‘deemed’ to earn a certain annual rate of return on your financial assets, regardless of the rate of return you actually earn.
How superannuation is taxed: Super for beginners guide
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 of what you pay and when.
How a transition-to-retirement (TTR) pension works
If you are looking to wind back working hours or boost your super in the lead-up to retirement, a transition-to-retirement (TTR) pension may be the answer.
