Super has soared with double-digit wins, but keep an eye on the ride

By Brad Buzzard · · 3 min read
Fact Checked
Man in beanie looking at his phone, obviously happy with what he sees.

Super as a whole had a fantastic year, with median balanced options hitting an estimated 10.1% return for the financial year ending June 30, 2025 according to superannuation research firm SuperRatings. This marks the third year in a row of strong performance, a welcome boost for retirement savings

But while we celebrate these gains, it wasn't smooth sailing. The second half of the year was a real rollercoaster, demonstrating that global economic conditions and questions over trade tariffs are still making waves.

SuperRatings executive director Kirby Rappell perfectly sums it up: 

"We saw exceptional volatility in returns over the year, particularly following the announcement of US tariffs in early 2025, however the benefit of staying the course was once again proven as a quick rebound has resulted in the third double digit return year over the past decade."

As you can see below, there were some notable ups and downs in the ASX, mirroring what’s going on globally. Even so, super funds came through these fluctuations successfully. This was thanks to strong performances in share markets, especially in tech and financials, which helped deliver strong positive returns for the full year.

Line graph showing the performance of the ASX 200 between August 2024 and mid-July 2025

What does this mean for your super?

This positive result reinforces that superannuation is a long-term game, designed to grow your money over decades. 

However, it's not all smooth sailing ahead.

As Rappell cautions, "Overall it’s been another fantastic year for Australians' retirement balances and members should celebrate these returns. However, expectations that similar returns will continue in the coming years should be tempered with markets currently sitting at record highs.”

So, while you should definitely celebrate this win, it's also a good reminder to:

  • Stay focused on the long-term. Don't panic over short-term market wobbles.
  • Check your settings. Are you in the right investment option for your current situation and risk tolerance?
  • Review your fees. Small differences in fees can make a big impact over time.
  • Keep perspective. Well these market highs are encouraging, remember that past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
  • Consider professional advice. If you're unsure about your super investment choices or how to get the most out of your fund, talking to a financial advisor is always a good idea.

Your super is your future, so it pays to make sure it's working its hardest for you. If your super isn’t performing to your expectations, or you’re looking for options better aligned with your goals, explore these super options that could help you get there.

Aware super disclaimers:

^SuperRatings Fund Crediting Rate Survey, March 2025. Based on SR50 Growth (77-90) Index. Returns are after tax and investment management expenses but before the deduction of administration fees. Past performance is not an indicator of future performance.

^^Chant West Super Fund Fee Survey December 2024, High Growth [81-95% in growth assets] investment option index and $50,000 account balance. Fees and costs can vary from year to year. Past fees and costs are not a reliable indicator of future fees and costs. Fees and comparisons may differ for other investment options and account balances. Aware Super’s High Growth option as published in the Aware Super Future Saver PDS.

Superhero disclaimers:

#Low Fees - Findings based on Superhero’s analysis of SuperRatings’ Fee Report - October 2024, accessed 5 December 2024. Fees for Superhero Super’s Growth and High Growth investment options are in the top quartile based on Total Fees and compared against the SR50 Balanced (60-76) and SR50 High Growth (91-100) Indices respectively. Performance - Findings based on Superhero’s analysis of SuperRatings’ Fund Crediting Rate Survey – October 2024, accessed 5 December 2024. Based on Superhero Super’s Growth and High Growth options being in the top quartile for one year return across the SR50 Balanced (60-76) and SR50 High Growth (91-100) Indices respectively. Refer to the Superhero Super PDS and TMD for found at superhero.com.au/support/documents for more information.

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