About ASFA
ASFA Purpose
ASFA is the voice of super.
We unite the superannuation community, supporting our members with research, advocacy, education and collaboration to help Australians enjoy a dignified retirement.
We promote effective practice and advocate for efficiency, sustainability and trust in our world-class retirement income system.
ASFA Members
Australia’s superannuation system includes funds of varying scale and membership, and their many service providers. The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) is the only industry body that represents all parts of the APRA-regulated system.
Our more than 100 members include retail, industry, corporate and public sector funds as well as administrators, custodians, insurers, technology and other service providers.
ASFA History
For over sixty years ASFA has represented Australia’s superannuation industry.
In 1842 the Bank of Australasia created Australia’s first superannuation fund for its staff. By the 1950s there were hundreds of mostly employer-based funds, covering employees of mostly larger companies and public servants. There also were a number of retail superannuation funds catering to the self-employed and individuals saving for retirement.
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In 1962 many of those funds came together to form what was then called the Association of Superannuation and Provident Funds of Australia.
The initial focus was pushing back on a government policy change that impacted on how superannuation funds could invest.
Since 1962 ASFA has led the way on advocacy on superannuation issues and training and development for employees of superannuation funds and their service providers.
National conferences have been held nearly every year since 1962.
The 1990s saw the transformation of ASFA from an organisation largely relying on voluntary input from its members to one that was professionally run and which provided high quality policy, research and training for the sector. Its governance structure also transformed from reliance on State based chapters with a large central council to a more focused national organisation with a much smaller board of directors. The 1990s also saw the newly emerging industry funds join the ASFA fold.
ASFA remains the preeminent organisation representing superannuation funds and service providers to funds.
Supporting members with research and insights
ASFA’s deep policy expertise and research capability is at the core of our organisation.
Through close consultation and collaboration with our diverse membership base, we shape evidence-based policy positions that responds to the evolving superannuation landscape and supports a dignified retirement for all Australians.
Our policy and research team includes experts in superannuation, government relations, economics, investment, cyber security, taxation, regulation and financial services. In 2024 we delivered 60 policy submissions, research papers and practice guidance notes, and supported members with weekly updates on superannuation regulatory and legislative developments.
We regularly speak with politicians of all parties and regulators on behalf of our members and the retirement savers they represent.
About
Research &
Papers
About
Research &
Papers
ASFA research and data-driven insights help the superannuation industry to make informed decisions to enhance member outcomes and improve the overall efficiency of the system.
About
ASFA Retirement Standard
About
ASFA Retirement Standard
Serving as Australia’s trusted retirement savings companion since 2004, providing a comprehensive breakdown of expenses for both a comfortable and modest lifestyle, for couples and singles to maintain a healthy, vital and connected lifestyle in retirement.
About
Professional Development
About
Professional Development
ASFA is the leading provider of professional development for the superannuation industry in Australia. Developed for the industry by the industry, our events, courses and CPD provide unparalleled expertise to support continuous learning for superannuation professionals.
