What is Superannuation? Top 10 Super Funds in Australia for 2025
Superannuation is a retirement savings system in Australia where employers put a portion of your salary into a fund for long-term growth.
In 2025 top super funds including Hostplus and AustralianSuper are offering strong returns, low fees and diversified investment options for all risk profiles.
Check out the best performing super funds, including their investment strategy, recent returns, industry awards and cost to help you choose the right fund for you.
What is Super?
Superannuation (often called super) is a pension or retirement savings scheme in Australia where employers put a percentage of your earnings into a dedicated fund. The money grows over time through investments.
Why Superannuation Matters:
Financial security in retirement.
Tax effective.
It’s compulsory for Australian employees (a portion of your salary goes to it).
Top 10 Super Funds in Australia for 2025
Hostplus – Indexed Balanced
Hostplus is a long standing favourite in the Australian superannuation landscape. With over $100 billion in assets under management (AUM) and a history of strong returns it’s a popular choice for members looking for growth and stability.
One of the top performing super funds in the country, Hostplus’s appeal is low fees, diversified investment options and industry awards.
This article looks at Hostplus’s 2025 performance, including 1-year and multi-year returns, industry awards and unique investment options. If you’re reviewing your super fund options this guide will help you understand why Hostplus might be the right choice for you.
2025 Returns — How Did Hostplus Do?
1-Year Return (2024-2025)
Hostplus’s Indexed Balanced Option returned 13.22% and the Balanced Option is a good choice for those looking for long term growth with steady returns from a mix of listed and unlisted investments.
Multi-Year Returns (3, 5, 7, 10, 20-Year)
Hostplus’s long term performance is impressive. A 20-year return of 8.19% p.a. shows it can withstand market volatility. This consistency is great for members looking for long term growth.
Awards & Industry Recognition
Hostplus’s performance isn’t just numbers – it’s backed by industry awards. Here are some of the 2025 awards:
Money Magazine’s Best MySuper Single Strategy Product (2025): For strong returns and low fees.
Top Performer in SuperRatings SR50 Balanced Index: A long standing leader in the SR50 index which benchmarks the top MySuper products.
Chant West & SuperRatings Awards: Consistently awarded for long term performance and member satisfaction.
Awards are a tick of approval for Hostplus’s quality and reliability. Awards give members peace of mind that they’re putting their retirement savings in the hands of a top performer.
Balanced vs Indexed Balanced — Which one?
Hostplus has two options—the Balanced Option and the Indexed Balanced Option—each for different investment strategies.
The Balanced Option has exposure to infrastructure, private equity and venture capital—unlisted assets that can be more stable in volatile markets. The Indexed Balanced Option is a low fee option with returns closely linked to the market, great for cost conscious, growth focused members.
Fees
Hostplus’s low fees are a big plus for members. Here’s how the fees compare for its two main options:
Fees can make a big difference to long term returns. The Indexed Balanced Option’s 0.06% p.a. fee is one of the lowest in the industry so members can take advantage of compounding. For those who want access to private markets, the Balanced Option is great value despite slightly higher fees.
Hostplus 2025 — AUM
As of May 2023, Hostplus has over $100 billion in AUM, making it one of Australia’s largest super funds. This growth is due to increasing member trust and a strong merger strategy.
With over 1.7 million members, Hostplus’s growing AUM means it can access bigger investment opportunities and diversify and improve member returns.
A bigger AUM means financial strength and trust. It allows the fund to go after large infrastructure projects and private market opportunities, giving members access to investments that would otherwise be off limits.
Is Hostplus for you?
Pros:
10 Year Returns: 8.93%
Low Fees: 0.06% p.a. for the Indexed Balanced Option.
Diverse Investment Portfolio: Unlisted assets like infrastructure, private equity and venture capital.
Award Winning: Endorsed by Money Magazine, Chant West and SuperRatings for performance and fees.
Cons:
Illiquid Unlisted Assets: The Balanced Option’s unlisted investments (like infrastructure) can be less liquid.
Volatility of Indexed Balanced Option: Tied to the market so more susceptible to short term fluctuations.
Summary
Hostplus is a top pick for 2025 with great returns, low fees and industry awards. With the Balanced Option (for long term stability) or the Indexed Balanced Option (for low cost market exposure) members can tailor their super to their goals.
8.93% 10 year return shows Hostplus can deliver over the long term. With over $100 billion in AUM and endorsed by Money Magazine and SuperRatings, Hostplus is definitely worth considering.
ESSSuper – Balanced Growth
What is ESSSuper – Balanced Growth?
ESSSuper’s Balanced Growth option is a superannuation investment strategy for those who want a balance of risk and return.
The fund invests in a mix of growth and defensive assets to achieve long term growth. Suitable for members with a medium to long term investment horizon.
Why ESSSuper – Balanced Growth:
Diversified investment portfolio.
Competitive long term returns.
Medium to long term investor.
Top Performing Superannuation Option
ESSSuper – Balanced Growth
ESSSuper’s Balanced Growth option combines shares, property and fixed interest for stable and diversified growth.
For members seeking consistent returns with moderate risk.
Balances growth potential with lower volatility than higher risk options.
Stable performance makes it a reliable choice for long term growth.
ESSSuper delivers returns over time so you can progress towards your retirement savings goal.
2025 Growth
1 Year Return (2024-2025)
10.5% return for the Balanced Growth option shows it can deliver growth and balance. A strong option for superannuation investors.
Multi-Year Returns (3, 5, 7, 10, 20-Year)
The long term returns for the Balanced Growth option show it’s consistent.
7.5% 10 year return shows the fund can grow your savings even in volatile markets.
Awards & Recognition
ESSSuper’s Balanced Growth option is industry endorsed. It’s won awards for performance, management and fees. So you can trust your superannuation fund.
Balanced Growth vs Other Options
ESSSuper’s Balanced Growth option balances growth and security. Not high risk, growth focused options. Stable while aiming for solid returns.
Rates and Fees
The Balanced Growth option has competitive fees to maximise long term returns for members. Total investment fee is around 0.55% p.a. which is lower than other super options.
ESSSuper 2025 — Assets Under Management (AUM)
As at 2023 ESSSuper manages over $40 billion in assets. This means we can offer more investment options to members.
AUM growth means we can continue to access quality assets for you.
Why ESSSuper?
Pros:
Strong returns with consistency.
Lower fees than other options.
Diversified portfolio for balance.
Cons:
Lower growth potential than higher risk options.
Some market exposure.
End Notes
ESSSuper’s Balanced Growth option is a good choice for stable long term growth in your superannuation.
Competitive returns, low fees and diversified investment strategy makes it a good option for medium to long term investors.
Brighter Super – Multi-Manager Growth Fund
The Brighter Super Multi-Manager Growth Fund is a diversified superannuation option for long term growth.
It’s a multi-manager approach, investing in multiple asset managers to give broad exposure across different markets and sectors.
Growth while managing risk, makes it a good option for investors looking for higher returns over the long term.
Why Brighter Super – Multi-Manager Growth Fund
Diversification: Pools investments from multiple asset managers to spread risk across asset classes.
Growth: Focuses on growth assets like shares and property for returns.
Medium to High Risk: Suitable for medium to high risk tolerance.
Long Term Focus: Growth over income, capital appreciation over time.
Brighter Super – Multi-Manager Growth Fund 2025
The Multi-Manager Growth Fund uses a different strategy, combining multiple managers to diversify risk and performance.
This has delivered strong results for investors despite market volatility.
Projected Returns 2024 – 2025
1 Year Return (2024-2025)
The fund returned 11.3% for the 2024-2025 financial year. This is due to its focus on growth assets like Australian and international shares and property.
Multi-Year Returns
The consistent returns across timeframes shows the fund’s strength and ability to deliver long term growth.
Awards & Recognition
Brighter Super’s Multi-Manager Growth Fund has been recognised for its performance and diversification strategy.
The fund has been praised for its returns during market volatility.
Comparison: Multi-Manager Growth Fund vs Other Options
The Multi-Manager Growth Fund’s diversified investment approach makes it less risky than single-manager funds but with competitive returns.
Pricing
The fund has a fee of 0.85% p.a. which is reasonable for a multi-manager fund. Slightly higher than some single-manager funds but justified by the diversification and professional management.
Brighter Super 2025 – AUM
$20 billion+
With this much AUM the fund can access big ticket investment opportunities to deliver better returns.
Why Brighter Super for You?
Pros:
Strong long term returns and sector diversification.
Competitive fees for a multi-manager fund.
Good asset management with experience.
Cons:
Fees are higher than some single-manager funds.
Multi-manager can be complex for new investors.
In short
The Brighter Super Multi-Manager Growth Fund is for those who want long term growth with risk management.
Strong returns, competitive fees and broad investment strategy makes it a top pick for growth superannuation investors.
Colonial First State – FirstChoice Wholesale Personal Super
Colonial First State’s FirstChoice Wholesale Personal Super is a superannuation option that delivers long term growth through diversification.
It has a mix of Australian and international shares, fixed income and property managed by a team of experts.
The fund aims to deliver consistent returns over time, growth and risk management.
Why Colonial First State FirstChoice Wholesale Personal Super
The FirstChoice Wholesale Personal Super gives investors a diversified portfolio to manage risk and maximise returns.
With its growth focus on shares and property, it’s perfect for those building their retirement savings over the long term.
Competitive fees makes it a good option for those who want to get the most out of their returns and keep more in the fund.
2025 Review
Colonial First State has performed well recently with its diversified approach and experienced management.
This has delivered returns for investors and grown their retirement savings with less risk.
2024 – 2025 Return
1 Year (2024-2025)
The FirstChoice Wholesale Personal Super returned 10.5% with positive market conditions in Australian and global shares and strong property.
Multi-Year Returns
The results show the fund’s consistency and long term growth from its diversified approach.
Awards & Recognition
The FirstChoice Wholesale Personal Super has been recognised by the superannuation industry for its performance and management.
For its reliability and returns over various market cycles.
Comparison: FirstChoice Wholesale Personal Super vs. Others
The FirstChoice Wholesale Personal Super is unique with its broad investment strategy and professional management, giving a more balanced risk-return profile than other funds.
Fees & Charges
The annual fee for the FirstChoice Wholesale Personal Super is 0.85%.
That’s competitive for a fund with such a broad and diversified investment approach, so most of the returns go back to members.
Colonial First State 2025 – AUM
Over $200 billion in assets under management, Colonial First State is one of Australia’s biggest super funds.
This gives the fund access to big investment opportunities, more diversification and potentially better returns.
Why Colonial First State?
Pros:
Good returns with a diversified approach.
Competitive fees for the level of management.
Consistent performance and industry recognition.
Cons:
Higher fees than entry level super options.
Market performance can impact returns and be volatile in the short term.
Summary
Colonial First State’s FirstChoice Wholesale Personal Super is a balanced superannuation option for long term growth.
Its diversified approach, competitive fees and professional management makes it a good option for those building their retirement savings.
Aware Super – Growth (MySuper)
Aware Super’s Growth (MySuper) is a high performing investment option for long term growth.
It has a diversified portfolio across shares, infrastructure, property and fixed interest to get the best returns while managing risk.
Aware Super is known for its commitment to sustainability and integrates environmental, social and governance (ESG) into its investment decisions.
It’s a popular choice for members looking for strong growth and ethical investment.
Why Aware Super
Aware Super delivers competitive superannuation returns and sustainable outcomes.
The Growth (MySuper) option is for members who want consistent long term performance and ethical investment.
This means members get the financial benefits while contributing to positive social and environmental change.
2025 Performance – How did Aware Super do?
The Growth (MySuper) option did well in 2025 with growth in shares, property and infrastructure.
Aware Super’s diversified approach allowed it to take advantage of opportunities in the domestic and global markets and get competitive returns for its members.
2024-2025 Return Outlook
1 Year Return (2024-2025)
The 12.4% 1 year return for 2024-2025 shows Aware Super can adapt to changing markets and get good returns.
Multi-Year Returns
The 12.4% return for 2025 shows Aware Super can adapt to changing markets.
Long term performance is strong with 8.1% over 10 years so consistent growth.
Awards and Recognition
Aware Super is still getting recognition for its performance and ethical investment approach.
In 2025 it was awarded for getting good returns while meeting sustainability standards. Its industry awards are a reflection of the trust and confidence of its members.
Fees
The Growth (MySuper) option has an annual fee of 0.83% which is competitive for an actively managed and diversified portfolio.
Members get cost effective management and access to growth investments across multiple sectors.
Funds Under Management (FUM)
Over $140 billion FUM.
This size gives us access to exclusive investment opportunities, especially in infrastructure and private markets which means better returns for members.
Aware Super vs Others
Aware Super’s advantage is its returns, sustainability and lower fees compared to others.
Worth Considering?
Pros:
Long term returns and consistent performance.
Competitive fees with active management.
Ethical investments for ESG outcomes.
Cons:
High risk may not be suitable for conservative investors.
Short term volatility may impact returns.
In Summary
The Growth (MySuper) option is still the go for long term investors looking for growth and responsible investing.
Its performance, ethical focus and competitive fees make it a top fund for 2025.
UniSuper – Balanced
UniSuper’s Balanced option combines good returns with ethical investing for members who value sustainability and long term growth.
Diversified investments including shares, property, infrastructure and fixed income.
UniSuper incorporates Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) into its strategy so investments are aligned to sustainable practices and good returns.
Why UniSuper’s Balanced Stands Out
UniSuper is awarded for sustainability and performance.
The Balanced option is for ethical, carbon aware investments so it’s perfect for socially conscious investors.
This approach gets long term growth and good global outcomes.
2025 Results – How did UniSuper do?
The Balanced option grew well in 2025 due to strong equity markets and sustainable infrastructure investments.
UniSuper’s ESG focused approach delivered consistent returns to members.
2024-2025 Returns
1 Year Return (2024-2025)
The 1 year return of 11.8% for 2024-2025 shows UniSuper can get growth while maintaining ethical investments.
This result is a reflection of the fund’s strategy to get financial growth while aligning to sustainable and responsible investing principles.
Multi Year Returns
The 11.8% return for 2025 shows UniSuper can get growth while prioritising ethical investments. The 10 year return of 8.0% means members get stable growth.
Awards and Recognition
UniSuper is still winning industry awards for performance and sustainability.
In 2025 the Balanced option won for consistent returns and ESG.
This is a tick of approval for UniSuper’s responsible investing.
Fees and Charges
The Balanced option has a competitive annual fee of 0.61% so it’s a low cost option for members looking for growth and sustainability. UniSuper’s low fees means more long term compounding.
Assets Under Management (AUM)
Over $115 billion AUM. One of Australia’s biggest funds. Scale means access to exclusive, high performing sustainable investments which means better returns for members.
UniSuper vs Others
UniSuper is unique in its balanced approach to growth, risk and sustainability. Its ESG aligned investments gives members the confidence that their funds are supporting good environmental and social outcomes.
Is UniSuper for You?
Pros:
Good returns with ESG focus.
Competitive fees for long term value.
Diversified investments for balanced risk.
Limited exposure to non-sustainable sectors.
Conclusion
The Balanced option is the perfect combination of good returns, low fees and ethical investing.
Consistent performance, sustainability and long term growth means it’s a top pick for socially conscious investors in 2025.
Australian Retirement Trust (ART) – High Growth
The High Growth option delivers long term returns by investing in growth assets like shares, property and infrastructure.
For members looking for long term wealth creation it invests in diversified portfolios to maximise growth.
With a focus on both local and global markets ART is a top pick for high risk investors and long term goals.
Why ART High Growth is different
ART is one of Australia’s biggest super funds with a reputation for performance and member value.
The High Growth option targets capital growth by investing up to 90% in growth assets so it’s perfect for younger investors or those who are comfortable with market volatility.
2025 Performance
The High Growth option performed well in 2025 due to strong equity markets, global investments and risk management.
ART’s long term focus means growth is consistent through market ups and downs.
2024-2025 Yield Predictions
1 Year Return (2024-2025)
The 1 year return of 13.5% for 2024-2025 shows ART’s investment strategy is working and it can generate good growth in a volatile market.
This performance demonstrates the fund’s robustness and ability to take advantage of opportunities while managing risk.
Multi Year Returns
The 13.5% 1 year return shows ART’s investment strategy is working. With a 10 year return of 8.9% p.a. it delivers solid growth for members.
Fees
The High Growth option is well priced at 0.65% p.a. ART’s ability to manage costs while delivering top performance means members get more value for their investment.
Assets Under Management (AUM)
ART has $260 billion in AUM making it one of Australia’s biggest super funds. Its size gives access to top investment opportunities and diversification.
Awards and Recognition
ART is awarded for its performance and value.
In 2025 the High Growth option was awarded for its performance and risk management so it’s a high performing fund.
ART High Growth vs Others
ART High Growth beats others with its aggressive but strategic allocation for growth investors.
Is ART a good choice?
Pros:
1 year and long term returns
Low fees.
Global opportunities.
Cons:
Not suitable for conservative investors.
Market volatility affects short term performance.
In summary
Australian Retirement Trust’s High Growth option is the standout for performance, fees and long term results.
With a 13.5% 1 year return and 8.9% 10 year average it’s a top pick for growth investors looking to secure their future in 2025.
HESTA – MySuper Balanced Growth
HESTA’s MySuper Balanced Growth option has long term performance.
Balances growth and stability by investing in shares, property and infrastructure to get maximum returns while managing risk.
HESTA is a top pick for members looking for steady long term growth.
Why HESTA MySuper Balanced Growth
As one of Australia’s biggest super funds HESTA is committed to performance and low fees.
The Balanced Growth option has a 75% allocation to growth assets so it’s for members with moderate risk and long term goals.
2025 Results – How did HESTA go?
HESTA’s Balanced Growth option did well in 2025 with a strong equities market, global infrastructure and strategic asset allocation. Its risk management means it’s resilient in volatile markets.
2024-2025 Forecast
1-Year Return (2024-2025):
11.8% for 2024-2025 shows HESTA’s Balanced Growth option can perform in a volatile market.
11.8% for the year means HESTA can get the best of the market while being stable
Multi-Year Returns
11.8% for 2025 shows the Balanced Growth option can deliver. 8.0% 10 year average shows it’s reliable long term.
Fees and Costs
HESTA’s MySuper Balanced Growth option has a total annual fee of 0.65% p.a. so members get to keep more of their returns. It’s a low fee option for cost conscious investors.
Assets Under Management (AUM)
HESTA manages over $80 billion in assets so members get access to big, premium investment opportunities. AUM is growing because members trust HESTA and our investment strategies.
Awards
HESTA’s MySuper Balanced Growth option is a award winner for performance and value.
Consistently in the top 3 balanced options in Australia and winner of awards for long term stability and sustainability.
HESTA vs Others
HESTA’s sustainable and ethical approach is different to competitors. Its strategy gets growth while aligning with members’ values.
Is HESTA the Best?
Pros:
1-year and long term returns.
Low fees.
Sustainability and ethical investments.
Cons:
Moderate growth allocation not for aggressive investors.
Lower short term returns than high growth options.
Conclusion
HESTA’s MySuper Balanced Growth option gets reliable returns, low fees and diversified investment.
11.8% 1-year and 8.0% 10 year average makes it a contender for members wanting long term growth and financial security in 2025.
Vision Super – MySuper
Vision Super’s MySuper option is a balanced and sustainable retirement savings approach.
Low fees and consistent returns makes it a good option for members wanting long term financial security.
Growth and defensive assets blended to get steady performance through market cycles.
Why Vision Super MySuper is different
Vision Super focuses on affordability and performance with a diversified portfolio of shares, infrastructure, property and fixed income.
70% growth assets makes it suitable for members with medium risk tolerance who want growth over the long term.
2025 Performance – How did Vision Super do?
Vision Super MySuper got solid results in 2025 driven by strong equities and asset allocation.
Conservative approach to risk management means reliable results during market volatility.
2025 Expected Returns
1-Year Return (2024-2025)
10.9% for 2024-2025 shows Vision Super’s performance and ability to adjust to market conditions and get solid returns.
7.6% 10 year average means Vision Super is a good choice for long term financial stability.
Multi-Year Returns
10.9% for 2025.
7.6% 10 year average means it’s a solid fund for growth and financial stability.
Fees and Charges
Vision Super’s MySuper option is one of the lowest in the market with total annual fees of 0.55% p.a. Lower fees means members get more of their returns through compounding growth making it a good value.
Assets Under Management (AUM)
Over $12 billion in assets means Vision Super is financially strong and competitive.
AUM growth means members trust and Vision Super’s investment strategy.
Awards and Recognition
Vision Super continues to get recognition for performance and sustainable investing.
Ethical and responsible investing appeals to members who care about the environment and society.
Vision Super vs. Others
Vision Super’s performance, low fees and sustainable investment approach makes it the best for members wanting long term growth and value.
Should you choose Vision Super?
Pros:
Long term performance.
Low fees.
Ethical and sustainable investing.
Cons:
Lower growth allocation may not be for aggressive investors.
Smaller AUM.
Verdict
Vision Super MySuper gets solid returns, low fees and sustainable practices for long term growth.
10.9% 1 year and 7.6% 10 year average makes it a good option for members wanting cost effective balanced superannuation growth in 2025.
NGS Super – Balanced
NGS Super’s Balanced Option is a reliable and sustainable choice for members who want long term growth with moderate risk.
By blending growth and defensive assets it gets steady returns and responsible investing.
Low fees and consistent performance makes it one of the best in the superannuation landscape.
Why NGS Super’s Balanced option stands out
NGS Super invests ethically and sustainably so members’ savings grow responsibly.
70% growth assets including shares, infrastructure and property means solid capital growth and risk management.
2025 Forecast
NGS Super Balanced option performed well in 2025 beating expectations through diversified investments and asset management.
Its balanced approach protects members’ savings during market volatility and captures growth opportunities.
2024 – 2025 Performance
1-Year Return (2024-2025)
10.5% 1 year return for 2024-2025 means NGS Super can generate growth in the short term.
7.5% 10 year average return means NGS Super can deliver long term growth and financial security over time.
Multi-Year Returns
10.5% 1 year return means NGS Super can generate growth in the short term.
7.5% 10 year average means NGS Super is a consistent performer and good for members focused on long term financial security.
Pricing and Fees
NGS Super keeps costs low with total annual fees of 0.54% p.a. Lower fees means members get to keep more of their savings and more returns over time.
This is a big plus for members looking for value in their super.
Assets Under Management (AUM)
NGS Super has over $14 billion in assets which means financial stability and growing member confidence.
Disciplined asset allocation means sustainable and reliable growth for members.
Awards and Recognition
NGS Super Balanced option gets industry recognition for its performance and responsible investing.
It has been awarded for beating returns while being ethical, good for socially conscious investors.
NGS Super vs. Others
NGS Super Balanced option is a great combination of returns, responsible investing and low fees. It’s a top choice for members who want ethical growth.
Is NGS Super right for you?
Pros:
Competitive returns with moderate risk.
Lower fees means more long term value.
Strong on ethical investing.
Cons:
Not suitable for investors who want higher growth allocations.
Smaller AUM than larger industry funds.
Summary
NGS Super Balanced option has sustainable practices, low fees and strong returns for long term growth.10.5% 1 year return and 7.5% 10 year average means it’s a good choice for members looking for ethical and consistent superannuation growth in 2025.
Originally Published: https://www.starinvestment.com.au/superannuation-top-10-super-funds-2025/
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