Calls for KiwiSaver improvements as NZ heads to polls
While the Australian superannuation industry continues to push for the faster progression of the superannuation guarantee (SG) to 12 per cent, New Zealanders are contemplating getting their KiwiSaver contributions up from three per cent to four per cent.
Research commissioned by the New Zealand Financial Services Council (NZFSC) and released at its annual conference today has revealed Kiwis wants KiwiSaver beefed up including more options with respect to contributions and access.
According to the NZFSC research, 67 per cent of those surveyed supported increasing both employer and employee contributions from three per cent to four per cent by 2021.
The survey also showed that despite concerns about an increased contribution rate costing employers, a majority of business executives, managers, business proprietors and self-employed people supported a gradual increase to four per cent.
Commenting on the research, NZFSC chief executive, Richard Klipin said that after ten years of KiwiSaver New Zealanders were maturing in their understanding and appreciation of the scheme.
“Given the universal support this research shows we now need to have a constructive policy debate on contribution levels and how we can increase them in a sustainable manner,” Klipin said.
“With support for strengthening KiwiSaver so high there is a clear challenge for our political leaders two weeks out from the election to show their roadmap for backing what voters want and growing KiwiSaver,” he said. “It is important that these findings are given serious consideration at policy level.”
Recommended for you
Advice licensee Sequoia Financial Group has promoted Sophie Chen as an executive director, following her work on the firm’s Asia Pacific strategy.
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority has reported an 18 per cent increase in investment and advice complaints received in the financial year 2025, rebounding from the previous year’s 26 per cent dip.
As reports flow in of investors lining up to buy gold at Sydney’s ABC Bullion store this week, two financial advisers have cautioned against succumbing to the hype as gold prices hit shaky ground.
After three weeks of struggling gains, this week has marked a return to strong growth for adviser numbers, in addition to three new licensees commencing.
