Aussies are watching their superannuation (Super) funds more closely and taking a more hands-on approach on its investment.
That was the finding of a Money Magazine survey conducted across January and February which drew 642 responses; it was run to study Australians engagement with Super, contribution habits, fund preferences and barriers to contributing more.
Money says it has seen a steady shift from ‘set-and-forget’ Super to regular check-ins; click here to learn more about them.
By 2026, monthly reviews were the norm among its readers, it says, with more than four in 10 (44.7%) checking their balance every month as opposed to sporadic yearly checks much earlier.
The increasing engagement is also driving how people contribute, the survey reveals.
Money says most Aussies begin to voluntarily tip extra into super in their 40s as mid-career workers look to accelerate their retirement savings.
It says one in five (20.7%) of their respondents started contributing between 40 and 49 years-old with many others beginning in their 30s or 50s.
The share of those starting contributions in their 50s fell from about 18% in 2025 to about 15% this year, suggesting the age group is feeling higher cost of living pressures.
Contributors aged in their 20s rose slightly, from 15% to just over 16%.
MIDDLE-AGED AUSSIES PUTTING IN MORE
Money’s Managing Editor, Vanessa Walker says the trend is one that Super funds should welcome.
“The 40s are a turning point. Super stops feeling abstract and starts feeling like a goal you can actually shape,” she says.
“When members get simple, honest explanations and can see the long-term impact of each extra dollar, they’re far more likely to make a start and stick with it.”
She adds that the early signs of younger Aussies stepping up with contributions is promising.
“Even small contributions in your 20s can make a meaningful difference. What stands out is that people want to do the right thing. They just need the right information at the right time.”
The survey also reveals that Aussies have plenty of doubt about stability of the Super system fuelled by changes to government rules: four in 10 (39.4%) of respondents said changing laws worry them most just ahead of fears about not having enough for retirement (38.5%).
Market volatility (31.5%) and fees (20.4%) were other concerns.
“Readers tell us the same things every year: they want steady performance, competitive fees and transparency as to where their money is invested that helps them feel confident,” Walker says.
“When it comes to changing funds, Australians are clear about what would convince them to move.”
ABOUT MONEY
Money is part of the Market Intelligence division of global financial data and analytics firm ISS STOXX.
It offers budgeting, property, superannuation, investments, financial planning, banking and insurance content since 1999.
It produces the monthly Money Magazine, a weekly podcast, twice-weekly newsletters and hosts an annual awards ceremony.
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