Election policies could reshape Australia's superannuation landscape, expert warns

By Newsdesk

May 01 2025
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Competing superannuation policies from Australia's major political parties could have significant implications for investors and retirees, according to a financial expert.

Election policies could reshape Australia's superannuation landscape, expert warns

Both Labor and Coalition proposals present potential challenges to long-term retirement planning, with neither offering substantial benefits to retail investors.

eToro Australia Managing Director Robert Francis expressed concerns about both parties' approaches to superannuation.

"The future of superannuation in Australia is likely to shift as a result of this election, as conflicting policies from Labor and the coalition could bring about adverse consequences for local investors and retirees," Francis said.

Labor's proposed tax changes targeting superannuation balances over $3 million, including plans to tax unrealised capital gains, could complicate financial planning strategies.

"Labor's proposed tax changes on super balances over $3 million, including taxing unrealised capital gains, could introduce complexities for financial planning and potentially disincentivise Australians from investing long-term," Francis said.

Meanwhile, the Coalition's policy to allow first-home buyers to withdraw up to $50,000 from their superannuation accounts raises concerns about long-term retirement savings.

Francis warned that such early access measures could undermine the fundamental purpose of superannuation.

"The Liberals' plan, on the other hand, is to allow first-home buyers to access up to $50,000 from their superannuation to address the growing challenge of housing affordability in Australia. Yet this could have a serious long-term impact on Australians' nest eggs, as pulling money out of super early undermines the power of super investment," he said.

Despite these concerns, Francis noted that some Labor policies might appeal to retail investors seeking growth and stability.

The Prime Minister's recent commitment to maintaining existing negative gearing arrangements provides certainty for property investors planning their finances.

Additionally, the government's "Future Made in Australia" initiative could benefit investors with holdings in domestic clean energy and sustainable technology companies.

Francis emphasised the importance of maintaining superannuation as a reliable vehicle for retirement planning, especially following recent market volatility.

"The government must ensure superannuation remains a reliable tool for long-term financial security, something many Australians are even more cautious about following the recent impact of tariffs on their super balances," he said.

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