Alex Jamieson warns: Super is going up – how super boost it for increased wealth

With compulsory superannuation contributions increasing from 11.5 percent to 12 percent on July 1, millions of Australians will soon be receiving more money into their retirement savings, but are they making the most of it?
 

According to Alex Jamieson, leading wealth strategist and founder of AJ Financial Planning, this rise is a major opportunity to ramp up long-term returns, but only for those who take the right steps now.
 

"This isn't just a government-mandated boost, it's a chance to shift gears and get more serious about your future financial independence," Jamieson said.
 

"Twelve percent is a significant benchmark and with smart planning, Australians can turn this passive increase into real, compounding growth."
 

The power of attention, not assumption

Jamieson said too many Australians assume their super fund is automatically performing. But even with more money going in, that doesn't guarantee better outcomes.
 

"Don't be passive. Your fund might be underperforming, misaligned with your goals, or sitting too conservatively for your life stage," he said.
 

"Now is the perfect time to review where your super is invested and why."
 

Sneaky strategies to maximise the increase
 

Jamieson advised checking whether your fund allows voluntary contributions to top up your super beyond the mandated 12 percent, especially through salary sacrifice. Even small additional contributions, made consistently, can dramatically boost your balance over time thanks to compound growth and tax efficiency.
 

He also recommended what he calls the 'silent match': asking your employer to increase their voluntary contributions in line with performance-based incentives or annual reviews, especially in industries where discretionary super top-ups are becoming more common.
 

"You'd be surprised how many people don't know they can negotiate this. It's not always advertised, but it can be a smart conversation to have with your employer, particularly in the lead-up to EOFY," Jamieson said.

Review your investment mix

A crucial factor in maximising the 12 percent boost is aligning your investment strategy with your time horizon. Younger Australians, said Jamieson, are often too conservatively invested, missing out on potential growth.
 

"If you're 30 and in a default 'balanced' fund, you're probably playing it too safe. With decades to go before retirement, you want your super working harder, not sitting on the sidelines," he said.
 

Jamieson suggested considering a shift to high-growth or aggressive options, but only after assessing your risk tolerance and seeking advice.
 

Don't leave it to chance
 

Jamieson's final advice is clear: the increase to 12 percent is only as powerful as the strategy behind it.
 

"This is money you never see in your bank account, but it's still your money. People who treat super like a set-and-forget system are leaving serious wealth on the table," he said.
 

From reviewing fund performance to understanding insurance fees and making sure your beneficiaries are up to date, Jamieson said now is the time to spring-clean your super and make every extra dollar count.
 

"Your future lifestyle depends on the decisions you make today. The 12 percent increase is a gift, but it's up to you to unwrap it properly," Jamieson said.
 

With more than two decades in financial planning, Jamieson is a trusted voice on investment strategy, retirement planning and superannuation optimisation. His message to Australians is simple: use the new super rate as a trigger to get proactive, not complacent.
 

About Alex Jamieson
 
Alex Jamieson is the founder of Melbourne-based advisory firm, AJ Financial Planning. With a firm belief in responsible investing, Alex crafts investment portfolios for clients that not only meet their financial objectives but are also sustainable and match their ethical values.
 
A highly respected financial advisor, Alex is considered one of the country's leading experts on all matters financial planning, investing and retirement.
 
http://www.ajfp.com.au/