Super Stapling: What it means for your superannuation

This measure was officially introduced as of 1 November, and aims to reduce the number of super accounts people may acquire throughout their working life.

The introduction of super stapling makes it even more important for Aussies to actively choose a super fund best suited to their circumstances and financial goals. 

According to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), employers need to offer employees, including contractors, a choice of super fund and pay super into the specified account.

What does this mean for you?

If you are an employee, this means that when you change jobs your super fund will still be the same fund you had at your last job.

If you wish to change superannuation you are responsible for communicating this with your new employer.

If you have never had a super account before you will either need to choose one, or have it chosen by your employer. 

If you are an employer, when you hire a new employee, check the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) database to see if your employee has an existing super fund.

Employers then send contributions to that fund, unless your employee asks for a change.

Gen-Z not investing in Super knowledge

According to new research released from NGS Super, 75% of Gen Zs (born late 1990s-2000s) aren't aware of 'super stapling'. 

When asked about their biggest investment - super - two in five (41%) said they didn’t care who their super is with, while only 15% want to invest more into their retirement nest egg. 

Chief Executive Officer at NGS Super, Laura Wright said young Aussies are looking to invest, but mainly in the short-term.

"The pandemic has made Gen Z hungry for more financial advice and investment options, but they’re looking for short-term satisfaction and we’re increasingly seeing this generation make investment decisions based on limited information via social media," Ms Wright said.

"Gen Z is entering the workforce in droves and we’re facing a critical moment in time to educate and engage with Gen Zs about their super to help them build a more financially secure and sustainable future."

According to NGS Super's survey of 1,002 Gen Z Australians, attitudes towards finances have changed in the wake of COVID-19.

Nearly three quarters (73%) of Gen Z said the pandemic encouraged them to save more - 31% said it prompted them to explore investment options such as shares or cryptocurrency, and a third are now keen for advice on how to invest.

"Our younger generations were disproportionally impacted financially by the pandemic, with as many as three in 10 Gen Z Australians taking up the early release scheme and cashing out their retirement savings," Ms Wright said. 

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