Superannuation’s peak body, ASFA, acknowledges the proposed governance requirement reforms outlined today in a letter from APRA to the entities it regulates. These entities include super funds, insurers, and banks.
The proposed reforms, to apply to all APRA-regulated entities, include:
- Clarification that directors’ skills and capabilities requirements apply collectively at the Board level, rather than individually
- A voluntary engagement approach for responsible person appointments, enabling collaboration between industry and the regulator on senior appointments
- A 12-year lifetime Board tenure limit at any single APRA-regulated entity, revised from the initially proposed 10-year limit
The announcement follows a review process that began in March 2025 when APRA released its Discussion Paper on Governance with eight proposals to update core governance requirements.
During the consultation period, ASFA submitted comprehensive written feedback and facilitated a roundtable between APRA and ASFA members, enabling direct industry input from representatives of 90 per cent of Australian superannuation account holders.
ASFA CEO Mary Delahunty acknowledged the announcement, saying, “Superannuation trustees take their governance responsibilities seriously. We recognise that APRA’s proposals represent a measured approach to modernising board governance across all APRA-regulated entities.”
“APRA has clearly listened to sector feedback, particularly in recognising that board capabilities should be assessed collectively. We look forward to continuing our constructive engagement as these reforms are implemented,” Ms Delahunty said.
ASFA will continue working with APRA as the reforms progress, particularly on developing further guidance around the proper roles of boards, chairs and senior management, and the implementation requirements for independent third-party performance assessments.
For further information, please contact:
ASFA media team
0451 949 300
mediaunit@superannuation.asn.au
About the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA)
ASFA, the voice of super, has been operating since 1962 and is the peak policy, research and advocacy body for Australia’s superannuation industry. ASFA represents the APRA regulated superannuation industry with over 100 organisations as members from corporate, industry, retail and public sector funds, and service providers. We develop policy positions through collaboration with our diverse membership base and use our deep technical expertise and research capabilities to assist in advancing outcomes for Australians.
We unite the superannuation community, supporting our members with research, advocacy, education and collaboration to help Australians enjoy a dignified retirement. We promote effective practice and advocate for efficiency, sustainability and trust in our world-class retirement income system.