Defined Contribution Fund

What is a Defined Contribution Super Fund?

Unlike Defined Benefit funds where your retirement income is predetermined, a Defined Contribution fund operates differently. Here, the final benefit you receive at retirement directly depends on the total amount accumulated in your super account. This accumulation is influenced by three key factors:

1. Contributions: Regular contributions are made to your super account. These come from two sources:
   • Employer contributions: By law, your employer is obligated to contribute a minimum percentage of your salary (currently 10.5%, rising to 12% by 2025) towards your super.
   • Your contributions (voluntary): You can choose to make additional (voluntary) contributions to boost your super savings. This can be done through salary sacrificing or personal contributions.
2. Investment returns: Your super is invested in various asset classes like shares, bonds, and property. These investments aim to grow your super balance over time. Remember, investments carry inherent risks, so returns can be positive or negative.
3. Fees and charges: Super funds levy fees to cover administration and investment management costs. These fees can eat into your returns, so it’s important to compare fees when choosing a fund.

Understanding Your Account Balance

Your Defined Contribution super account reflects your total accumulated super savings. This balance typically includes:

• Contributions: All contributions made by you and your employers.
• Investment earnings: Profits earned from your super investments.
• Investment losses: Any losses incurred from your super investments.
• Fees and charges: Deductions made by the super fund to cover their operating costs.

Factors Affecting Your Final Benefit

Since your Defined Contribution benefit hinges on your account balance, several factors influence the final amount you receive:

• Starting age: Starting your super contributions early allows your money to grow through the power of compounding interest.
• Contribution levels: Higher contribution rates, both from you and your employer, lead to a larger final benefit.
• Investment performance: The overall performance of your chosen investment options significantly impacts your account balance.
• Fees and charges: Lower fees translate to more money retained in your super account for growth.
• Retirement age: Delaying retirement allows your super to accumulate further through ongoing contributions and investment returns.

Taking Control of Your Future

Defined Contribution super funds empower you to take charge of your retirement savings. By actively managing your contributions, choosing suitable investment options, and monitoring fees, you can significantly influence your final benefit. Here’s what you can do:

• Compare super funds: Research and choose a fund with low fees and investment options aligned with your risk tolerance and retirement goals.
• Consider salary sacrificing: Increasing your pre-tax contributions can boost your super balance while lowering your taxable income.
• Review your investment strategy: Regularly assess your investment choices and ensure they align with your risk profile and retirement timeline.
• Seek professional advice: Consider consulting a financial advisor to personalize your superannuation strategy and maximize your retirement savings.

Remember, a Defined Contribution super fund provides a flexible framework for building your retirement nest egg. By taking an active interest and making informed decisions, you can significantly improve your financial security in your golden years.