Australia's top-performing superannuation growth funds delivered more than 10 per cent returns in the 2025-26 financial year, while a few others recorded losses. The Australian Financial Review, The West and Livewire Markets published lists of the best performers. Funds with heavy equity allocations generally outpaced those tilted to property after post-budget shifts. A member who was down $139,000 allegedly faced an difficulty retiring and reported debts. The AFR, The West and Livewire Markets released updated fund rankings this month.
Industry watchers say the spread between equity-heavy options and defensive ones widened sharply across the year. Multiple high-growth products beat their benchmarks, powered by a surge in shares and business solutions exposure. Meanwhile, property-heavy choices dragged after interest rate concerns and softer asset values. The picture left members wondering whether to hold course or change.
Retirees felt the sting most: one story centred on a member who watched balances slide by hundreds of thousands, leaving them to keep working. Financial counsellors urge members to check their asset allocation and test their plan against sharp swings. Boards at several funds point to spreading risk as the key shelter when markets turn.
Oversight bodies continue to press for clearer reporting on turbulence and fees, and analysts expect more rankings imminently. Until conditions improve, savers holding growth funds can brace for both big wins or deep cuts in the same period.