Growth super funds, which allocate the majority of their assets to growth investments like shares and property, aim to deliver higher returns over the long term. This guide provides an in-depth analysis of top-performing growth super funds, focusing on performance and fees to assist you in making an informed decision.
Please Note: Any advice on this page is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider whether this is right for you. See full disclaimer.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.
As of December 31st 2025.
As of December 31st 2025.
As of December 31st 2025.
Source: All performance data on this page is sourced from SuperRatings (SuperRatings Pty Ltd). The rankings are not provided by SuperRatings but rather are a ranking of all the investment options listed on this website with a growth allocation between 91-100% (SuperRating’s High Growth risk profile) excluding single sector options e.g. Australian Shares only funds. Whilst this covers the majority of super fund investment options, not every fund and every investment option is listed on this website and therefore there may be options that could be in this list that aren’t.
Super fund investment options are classed into risk profiles or categories depending on how much growth assets they have from high growth, to secure. We use Lonsec’s (Super rating’s) definition of a growth investment option which is 77% – 90% growth assets. These asset classes are known for their potential to appreciate in value over time, offering investors the opportunity for significant capital growth. However, this growth potential comes with a tradeoff: greater exposure to market volatility and a higher level of risk compared to balanced or conservative options.
Investors in growth super funds can expect periods of strong performance during market upswings, as growth assets tend to benefit from favorable economic conditions. Over the long term, these funds have historically outperformed more conservative options, making them an appealing choice for individuals looking to maximize their retirement savings. However, during market downturns, these funds may experience more significant short-term losses, which can be unsettling for risk-averse investors or investors in or approaching retirement.
The central consideration with growth super funds is the risk-return trade-off. While these funds aim to achieve higher returns, they also come with increased volatility and a higher likelihood of negative returns in the short term. For example, during economic recessions or market corrections, the value of growth assets can decline substantially. On the flip side, the high allocation to equities and similar investments allows these funds to recover and thrive in the long run as markets rebound.
Growth super funds are most suitable for individuals with a long investment horizon and a moderate to high risk tolerance. They are ideal for:
Younger Investors: With decades until retirement, younger investors have the advantage of time to weather short-term market fluctuations and benefit from compounding returns over the long term.
Those Seeking Aggressive Growth: Investors with financial goals requiring substantial capital appreciation may find growth funds align well with their objectives.
Long-Term Planners: If your retirement is still 10 or more years away, a growth super fund can provide the potential for greater returns compared to conservative or balanced options.
However, they may not be appropriate for retirees or those nearing retirement who need to preserve their capital and prioritize income stability over high returns. Such individuals might prefer balanced or conservative funds with lower risk profiles.
