Australia's top-performing superannuation growth funds delivered more than 10 per cent returns in the 2025-26 financial year, while a few others recorded losses. AFR, The West Australian and Livewire Markets published lists of the leading performers. Funds with heavy equity allocations generally outpaced those tilted to property after recent budget tweaks. A member who was down $139,000 reportedly faced an inability to retire and reported debts. AFR, The West and Livewire Markets released updated fund rankings recently.

Industry watchers say the spread between equity-heavy options and defensive ones widened sharply across the year. Multiple high-growth products topped their benchmarks, driven by a rally in shares and tech exposure. Meanwhile, property-heavy choices lagged after interest rate concerns and softer asset values. The picture left savers wondering whether to stay put or change.

People nearing retirement felt the sting most: one story revolved around a member who saw balances slide by hundreds of thousands, leaving them back into the workforce. Financial advisers advise savers to check their asset mix and test their plan against rough patches. Boards at several funds point to spreading risk as the key saving when markets turn.

Regulators continue to press for clearer disclosure on turbulence and fees, and analysts expect more rankings imminently. Until conditions improve, members holding growth funds can brace for either solid gains or deep cuts in the same span.