Dinner, Flowers & Finances: Putting Super on the Menu this Valentine's Day

14 February 2025

This Valentine’s Day, AustralianSuper is urging couples to take their relationship to the next level by having one of the most important conversations about their future – the super talk.

New research commissioned by AustralianSuper reveals that while 82 per cent of loved-up Australians believe discussing superannuation with their partner is key to a healthy relationship, it’s often overlooked.

While 60 per cent discuss day-to-day finances with their partner at least once a month, only one quarter (27 per cent) say they talk about superannuation as regularly, and six per cent admit they’ve never broached the subject at all.

Nearly half of those surveyed (48 per cent) admitted they don’t know which super fund their partner is with, despite 65 per cent knowing who their partner banks with.

Alarmingly, more than half (55 per cent) mistakenly believe their partner’s superannuation has no impact on their financial situation, and one in 10 (9 per cent) don’t see the need to discuss it at all.

Peter Treseder, AustralianSuper Education Manager, says couples who talk about superannuation can better plan for life’s big milestones.

“Super is about more than your individual future – it’s about how you and your partner can work together to achieve shared goals, navigate key life events, and plan for the retirement you want to have together” he said.

“Whether it’s planning for retirement, raising a family, or simply aligning on life goals, super should absolutely be part of the conversation.

“This Valentine’s Day, we’re encouraging Australians to make superannuation part of their love story. While it might not sound romantic, discussing your super can be one of the most meaningful steps you can take together towards securing a better financial future.”

Peter Treseder’s Top 5 Tips for Starting the Super Conversation with Your Partner

1. Know your partner’s fund: Start with the basics – do you know your partners' super fund? It is important to know which super fund your partner is with, in case you ever need to contact them.


2. Discuss beneficiaries: Check who and how you have nominated your super beneficiaries. It’s important to ensure your super will go to the right person if something happens to you.


3. Consider spousal contributions: If one partner takes time off work, for parental leave, or they are between jobs, discuss how you can boost their super balance through a spouse contribution. This can help ensure both partners are financially secure in retirement, and you may also be eligible for a tax offset. Before adding to super, consider your financial circumstances, eligibility, contribution caps that may apply, tax issues and when super can be accessed.


4. Talk about the long-term: Discuss how your super is building towards your shared long-term goals, like where and when you want to retire, and what you want to do in retirement. A little planning now can make a big difference later.


5. Plan for the unexpected: Make sure that your insurance arrangements are appropriate for your circumstances. Often one member of a couple, usually the higher earner will have insured benefits at a suitable level, however the other member sometimes has inadequate levels that have never been reviewed.

For more information, head to www.australiansuper.com

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