About industry superannuation funds
United Workers Union is a strong supporter of industry superannuation funds. Industry funds are not-for-profit funds run only to benefit members. They have low fees, deliver strong, long-term returns and consistently outperform retail funds (such as those run by the big banks).
Today, more than 5 million Australian workers, including many United Workers Union members, are members of industry funds. These funds manage hundreds of billions of dollars of workers’ money. All profits go to the funds of members instead of shareholders. Importantly, members have a say in how the funds are run, through employee representatives on the boards of industry funds.
Together industry funds invest in long-term assets like roads, airports, renewable energy and other infrastructure. This helps to deliver higher, long-term returns for members, and also benefits everyone by creating jobs and strengthening the economy. Industry funds are also leading the way with responsible investment by factoring in important environmental, social and governance issues. They also offer members access to low-cost loans and banking services through Members’ Equity (ME) Bank, providing a genuine alternative to the big banks.
United Workers Union & superannuation
Over the years, United Workers Union and other unions have fought hard to make sure all workers have access to super. We achieved this through compulsory superannuation, which began in 1992.
Our work combating wage theft and ensuring members get their full entitlements, includes making sure our members get their super contributions.
In 2022, we helped get rid of a law which allowed employers not to pay super for workers earning less than $450 per month. We continue to fight for super to be paid on parental leave and for a more equitable super system generally, in particular for First Nations and women.
Our work combating wage theft and ensuring members get their full entitlements, includes making sure our members get their super contributions.
In 2022, we helped get rid of a law which allowed employers not to pay super for workers earning less than $450 per month. We continue to fight for super to be paid on parental leave and for a more equitable super system generally, in particular for First Nations and women.
Superannuation contributions are not taken out of your wages – they are paid on top of your salary. By law, your employer must pay a minimum 9.5% contribution (of your ordinary time earnings) into your nominated or default super fund. This contribution will increase in stages to 12% by July 2025. The next increase of 0.5% is due from 1 July 2021
Industry funds that cater especially to United Workers Union members:
The fund for those who work in the cleaning, security, manufacturing, logistics, food and beverage, farms, call centre, market research and allied industries.
For more information, go to: www.australiansuper.com
The fund for employees in the health and community services sector.
For more information, go to: www.hesta.com.au
The fund for workers employed in hospitality, tourism, recreation and sport.
For more information, go to: www.hostplus.com.au
With effect from 03 June 2022, LUCRF Super has merged with Australian Super.