The start of a new financial year is a natural time to review your superannuation and consider whether it is supporting your long-term goals. It is also a period when many people begin thinking about fund performance, consolidation, or seeking financial planning advice.

At the same time, there tends to be an increase in calls, online advertisements, and offers for super “health checks” or free financial services. While some approaches may be genuine, others are carefully designed to pressure you into making quick decisions. These superannuation sales tactics often sound helpful on the surface, but they can steer you toward products or investments that are not in your best interests and may expose you to unnecessary risks.

ASIC recently reminded Australians to take extra care when approached with these offers. Switching or consolidating superannuation can have benefits, but decisions about your retirement savings should always be made after careful consideration and with trusted, independent advice, never under pressure from a sales pitch.

Recognising Superannuation Sales Tactics

Some sales approaches can be subtle, while others are more obvious. Here are the key warning signs to keep in mind:

• High-pressure sales tactics – being told you must act immediately or risk missing out. A genuine product or service will never require you to make an instant decision.

• Cold calls or unsolicited contact – if you did not initiate the conversation, be cautious. Unsolicited offers are rarely in your best interests.

• Free “health checks” or prizes – while these sound attractive, they are often used as hooks to collect your personal details or steer you toward certain funds.

• Lost super services – you can easily find and consolidate your super for free through the ATO, so be wary of anyone offering to do it for you.

• Referrals during the call – sometimes callers pass you on to a “financial adviser” to create legitimacy. Always verify licences independently before proceeding.

• Limited or no disclosure – if the details about fees, risks, or performance are vague or missing, it is a major red flag.

• Unrealistic promises – guaranteed high returns or “special deals” are a strong indicator that the product is not what it seems.

These tactics may not look like scams at first, but they are designed to create urgency and lower your guard. Recognising them early is the first step to protecting your super.

Making Safe Choices About Your Super

When approached with offers about your super, remember that your retirement savings are too important to rush. Here are some practical ways to stay in control:

• Pause before acting – take your time to think. A genuine opportunity will still available after you have considered it.

• Protect your information – do not provide personal or financial details to cold callers or websites you do not know.

• Verify advisers – check the ASIC Financial Adviser Register to confirm the adviser is licensed and authorised to provide advice.

• Use official channels – to find lost super or consolidate accounts, go directly to the ATO’s online services, which are secure and free.

• Get independent advice – seek a second opinion from a qualified adviser who is not tied to the sales call. Independent advice ensures you are making decisions that truly benefit you.

Taking these steps gives you confidence that your decisions are informed, safe, and in line with your long-term goals.

Your superannuation is one of your most important long-term investments. A smart choice today will support your financial security in the years ahead. At MKG Partners, we work closely with Brad Martin and Vy Nguyen from Blueprint Wealth, licensed financial advisers who provide clear and independent guidance. They can help you understand your options with confidence and make informed decisions about your retirement savings. If you would like to be connected with Blueprint Wealth, please contact us and we can introduce you.