Australia's top-performing superannuation growth funds posted more than 10 per cent returns in the 2025-26 financial year, while others notched losses. AFR, The West and Livewire Markets published lists of the leading performers. Funds with heavy equity allocations typically outpaced those weighted to property after recent budget tweaks. A member who was down $139,000 reportedly faced an inability to retire and reported debts. AFR, The West Australian and Livewire Markets issued updated fund rankings this month.
Industry watchers say the spread between growth-oriented options and conservative ones widened sharply across the year. Multiple high-growth products topped their benchmarks, driven by a rally in listed equities and tech positions. By contrast, property-heavy options lagged after rate concerns and softer asset values. This outlook left savers wondering whether to stay put or change.
People nearing retirement felt the sting most: one story revolved around a member who saw balances slide by hundreds of thousands, forcing them back into the workforce. Financial advisers advise savers to check their asset mix and test assumptions against rough patches. Trustees at several funds point to diversification as the core saving when markets turn.
Oversight bodies continue to press for clearer disclosure on risk and fees, and analysts expect more league tables soon. Until conditions improve, members holding growth funds can brace for either solid gains or heavy losses in the same span.