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Shaping Super 2026: Australian superannuation industry analysis 

Your guide to superannuation, retirement, and fund priorities for 2026

Australia’s superannuation system is one of the largest and most important drivers of retirement savings, supporting millions of Australians on their journey to financial security. As the system grows and consolidates, funds are facing new challenges and opportunities shaped by their maturity and an ageing population.

The Shaping Super 2026 report explores how these changes are influencing fund priorities and strategies for the year ahead. Whether you’re involved in the industry or simply interested in the future of super, this report offers practical insights to help navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. Download the Shaping Super 2026 report to learn more about what’s shaping superannuation today and into the future.

Scale of the superannuation system

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Eight fund priorities for 2026

As the Australian superannuation landscape continues to evolve, funds face a complex mix of challenges and opportunities that demand clear focus and strategic action. The eight fund priorities for 2026 highlight key areas where super funds need to concentrate their efforts to deliver better member outcomes:

  • Simplify products and propositions
  • Strengthen operations and data capabilities
  • Navigate an increasingly complex regulatory and governance environment.

These priorities reflect the need to balance fundamentals like member retention and value proposition clarity with forward-looking initiatives such as retirement income innovation and operational model updates. By addressing these themes, funds can position themselves to thrive amid ongoing consolidation, demographic shifts, and market pressures.

      

FAQ's

The Australian superannuation system is rapidly maturing, characterised by ongoing consolidation and growth in assets. This maturity brings both opportunities and challenges as funds adapt to a more complex and competitive landscape.

Superannuation funds differ significantly in their maturity based on size, member demographics, and strategic focus. Mature funds tend to have well-defined value propositions, robust investment governance, and effective member engagement strategies.

Economic conditions, regulatory changes, and competitive pressures are key forces influencing fund maturity. Funds must navigate these factors by leveraging data analytics, enhancing governance, and adapting distribution models to remain competitive.

The ageing demographic is driving funds to shift focus from accumulation to sustainable retirement income solutions. Funds are increasingly using data to tailor retirement offerings and improve member outcomes in response to this demographic shift.

Funds are prioritising delivering strong member outcomes, responding proactively to regulatory changes, improving member retention, and enhancing retirement income strategies. Strategic clarity and operational efficiency are also critical focus areas.

Retention is essential for sustainable growth as acquiring new members alone is insufficient. Funds are investing in data-driven insights and personalised engagement to foster loyalty and reduce member churn.

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