'Lazy tax' could be costing Aussies six figures of super

Thursday, 21 August 2025 12:27

A third of Australians could be shortchanging their own retirement nest egg, according to an expert.

Almost one third of Australians are missing out on potentially six figures worth of superannuation by not making one simple change, new research has found.

A survey by comparison website Finder revealed 32 per cent of responders were still with the same default super fund from their first employer, meaning they could be hit with the so-called "lazy tax", and forgoing better returns on their retirement fund.

Another quarter (26 per cent) of people said they were with the default super of their current employer, while 41 per cent said they were with the super fund of their choice.

Finder superannuation literacy expert Pascale Helyar-Moray said too many Aussies were ignoring their super.

"One of the biggest barriers to switching is perceived complexity and effort involved, but it's actually very straightforward and switching to a new super fund could be definitely worth your while," she said.

"You can bank on the fact that there's a better fund out there than the one your first employer set up for you when you were a teenager."

Finder analysis shows increasing your average return on a $100,000 super balance from 6 per cent to 7 per cent can mean an extra $186,876 after 30 years (excluding fees).

"No matter if you're just starting out, mid-career, or approaching retirement, it's crucial to understand your super and how it's tracking," Helyar-Moray said.

"The amount you build up in super over your working life will ultimately shape the lifestyle you can enjoy in retirement."

Helyar-Moray said if your fund isn't in the top-performing ranks, it may be time to take your nest egg elsewhere.

"Before switching providers, compare the one, five, and 10-year return rate as well as fees," she said.

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