Best Super Funds Australia 2025
Compare super fund performance, fees, and ratings. Past performance isn't a guarantee of future returns.
Top Industry & Profit-to-Member Funds
These funds consistently outperform retail funds on fees and returns.
| Fund | Investment Option | 1yr Return | 5yr Return | 10yr Return | Fees ($50k) | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hostplus TOP | Balanced | 8.23% | 7.89% | 8.67% | $352 | Platinum |
| Aware Super | Growth | 10.12% | 8.21% | 8.45% | $399 | Platinum |
| AustralianSuper | Balanced | 9.07% | 7.69% | 8.35% | $416 | Platinum |
| HESTA | Balanced Growth | 9.45% | 7.56% | 8.23% | $445 | Gold |
| UniSuper | Balanced | 8.95% | 7.45% | 8.12% | $367 | Gold |
| Cbus | Growth | 8.67% | 7.34% | 8.01% | $410 | Gold |
| Australian Retirement Trust | Lifecycle | 8.12% | 7.23% | 7.89% | $378 | Gold |
| Vision Super | Balanced Growth | 8.45% | 7.12% | 7.76% | $420 | Silver |
| REST | Core Strategy | 7.89% | 6.78% | 7.45% | $385 | Silver |
| LUCRF | Balanced | 7.56% | 6.89% | 7.34% | $345 | Silver |
Retail Super Funds
Bank-owned funds - generally higher fees and lower returns.
| Fund | Investment Option | 1yr Return | 5yr Return | 10yr Return | Fees ($50k) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMP MySuper | Balanced | 6.89% | 5.67% | 6.23% | $567 |
| MLC MasterKey | Horizon 4 | 7.23% | 6.12% | 6.78% | $612 |
| BT Super | Balanced | 7.12% | 5.89% | 6.45% | $545 |
| Colonial First State | Diversified | 6.78% | 5.45% | 6.12% | $589 |
The Impact of Fees Over Time
Even small fee differences compound significantly over a working life:
*Based on $50,000 starting balance, $15,000/year contributions, 7% base return
What Makes a Good Super Fund?
- ✅ Strong long-term returns (10+ year track record)
- ✅ Low fees relative to performance
- ✅ Appropriate insurance coverage
- ✅ Investment options matching your risk profile
- ✅ Good member services and app
- ✅ Strong ESG/ethical options if important to you
Red Flags to Avoid
- 🚩 Fees above 1% of your balance
- 🚩 Consistently underperforming peers
- 🚩 Default insurance eroding small balances
- 🚩 Hidden exit or switching fees
- 🚩 Poor communication and support
- 🚩 APRA performance test failures
Have Multiple Super Accounts?
The average Australian has 1.4 super accounts, paying multiple sets of fees. Consolidating to one high-performing fund could save thousands over your lifetime.
How to Choose the Best Super Fund
Step 1: Check Your Current Fund
Log into your current super fund's website or check your annual statement. Look at:
- Total fees you're paying (admin + investment)
- Your investment option returns vs the fund's benchmark
- Insurance premiums being deducted
Step 2: Compare Performance
Focus on 10-year returns rather than 1-year figures. Short-term performance varies widely, but long-term returns show a fund's true capability. Use resources like:
- APRA's YourSuper comparison tool
- Moneysmart super comparison
- SuperRatings and Chant West ratings
Step 3: Consider Your Situation
The "best" fund depends on your circumstances:
- Young workers: Focus on growth options and low fees
- Families: Ensure adequate insurance coverage
- Near retirement: Consider capital preservation and pension options
- Ethical investors: Look at sustainable investment options
Disclaimer: Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. This comparison is for educational purposes. Consider seeking professional financial advice for your specific situation.