Aussies more ‘hands-on’ with super despite lingering uncertainty

Yasmine Raso

Senior Journalist

13 April 2026

New consumer research has pointed to a significant mindset shift in Australians’ approach to superannuation with higher levels of engagement and more of a “hands-on” attitude, despite some uncertainty remaining around system stability and the impact of government policies on retirement savings.

According to consumer magazine Money’s Your Super, Your Say survey conducted earlier this year, more than 44 per cent of the 642 respondents said they now check their super balance every month – a significant move away from the previously dominant ‘set and forget’ mentality.

Similarly, the ages at which Australians begin to contribute voluntarily to their super has seen some movement, with those aged between 40 and 49 accounting for just under 21 per cent of survey respondents, followed by 15 per cent of those in their 50s (dropping from 18 per cent last year) and 16 per cent of those in their 20s (jumping slightly by one per cent in the past year).

“The 40s are a turning point. Super stops feeling abstract and starts feeling like a goal you can actually shape,” Vanessa Walker, Managing Editor at Money, said.

“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.

“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.”

At the same time as levels of engagement with superannuation rise, so have Australians’ concerns about the stability of the super system. Legislative and policy changes came out on top (39.4 per cent), followed closely by not having enough for retirement (38.5 per cent), market volatility (31.5 per cent) and fees (20.4 per cent).

The consumer magazine also revealed switching funds as an inadvertent byproduct of heightened awareness of and engagement with super.

“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 said.

”When it comes to changing funds, Australians are clear about what would convince them to move.

“Better long-term performance is the strongest motivator, followed closely by lower fees, two themes that have been consistent across multiple annual surveys Money conducted.

“A smaller but still meaningful group said they would switch if funds provided clearer, easier to understand information, or if the digital tools and apps were easier to use.”