Stapled super funds – an introduction
Changing jobs is a big step. New opportunities, new colleagues, and sometimes, new challenges. But what happens to your super when you start a new job? Does it transfer across? Do you need to fill out any forms? And what exactly is a stapled super fund?
Let’s take a closer look and answer some of the common question around new jobs and your super.
Can I take my super with me when I change jobs?
The short answer is yes, your super can move with you when you start a new job. And the good news is it's easier than ever. Thanks to a legislative change – known as ‘super stapling’ – the onus is now on your super fund and new employer to ensure your existing super arrangement carries over to your new job.
What is a stapled super fund?
Super stapling is a process where your existing super fund is automatically linked – or stapled – to you when you change jobs.
Introduced as part of the Government's Your Future, Your Super reforms in 2021, it aims to reduce the creation of multiple super accounts, which can lead to unnecessary fees and insurance costs for members.
It means that your new employer must use your existing ‘stapled’ super fund unless you choose otherwise. This helps streamline retirement savings and ensures continuity in superannuation management across different jobs.
How does super stapling work?
If you start a new job and don’t nominate a super fund, your employer must:
- Request your stapled super fund details from the ATO.
- Pay your super contributions into that stapled fund.
- Offer you a choice of fund, allowing you to override the stapled fund if you prefer another.
If the ATO finds no stapled fund for you, your employer will pay contributions into their default fund.
Why is super stapling important
Understanding how super works when you change jobs helps you:
- Avoid duplicate accounts and fees
- Maintain consistent insurance coverage
- Maximise your retirement savings
It’s also a great time to review your super fund’s performance, fees, and insurance options. If you’re not happy with your current fund, you can switch and consolidate your accounts to make managing your super easier.