Stapled super funds: What you need to know
16 March 2025
2
min read
'Super stapling' is how your super follows you from job to job. Learn more about stapled super funds, and how it could mean more savings for retirement.
What is super stapling?
Super stapling is a bit like your super account being 'stapled' to you as you move between jobs. It means that your existing super fund follows you when you start a new job, unless you choose a different fund.
The Australian Government introduced super stapling in November 2021. It aims to reduce the number of unnecessary super accounts and help you avoid paying multiple sets of fees. And money that you save on fees can mean more money for your retirement.
How does super stapling work?
When you start a new job, if you don't nominate a preferred super fund, your employer now has to check with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to see if you have an existing super account.
If you do have an existing fund registered, that fund becomes your 'stapled' fund and your new employer will pay your super contributions into it. This way, you're less likely to end up with multiple super accounts that you might forget about.
Why super stapling can be helpful
Super stapling can be a real game-changer for your retirement savings. Here's why:
Less paperwork
You don't need to fill out new super fund paperwork every time you change jobs.
Fewer fees
With just one main account, you're not paying multiple sets of fees that can eat into your balance.
Potentially more super
By consolidating your super into one account, you could end up with more money in retirement. Before you consolidate, think about whether it's right for you. You could lose access to benefits such as insurance or pension options, and you need to consider tax implications.
Things to think about when changing jobs
While super stapling has its benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind:
-
Insurance cover: Your stapled fund's insurance might not suit your new job or your personal situation. It's worth checking if you need to adjust your cover.
-
Performance: Just because a fund is stapled doesn't mean it's the best performer. It's always good to review your super regularly.
Are you changing jobs?
Continue to build on the super you’ve already invested with us by taking your account with you.
If you're an employer
Need a refresher on what super means for you and your employees? We're here to support you through the process.
FAQs about super stapling
Yes. To stay with your existing fund, you need to complete the ATO's Superannuation standard choice form and hand it over to your employer. When you're starting a new job, your employer is obliged to give you this form to complete.
If you don’t complete this form, your employer will start the super stapling process with the ATO.
If you have multiple super funds and you don’t choose one when you start a new job, the ATO will usually decide which one is your stapled super fund based on a number of 'tiebreaker' factors, like:
- whether the account was previously identified as a stapled super fund
- when the account was created
- the balance of the account
- how recently contributions were made to the account.
If you're new to the workforce and don't have a super fund yet, your employer won't find anything in the ATO super search. In this case, you'll be set up with an account in their default super fund, and your super will be paid into it (unless you choose another fund).
Yes, you can always choose a different super fund if you find one that better suits your needs. Just let your employer know your choice in writing.