Choice of Super

Your super, your choice

If you’re like most WA public sector employees, you currently have your 11% employer super contributions automatically paid into the super account you hold with us.

An initiative introduced by the WA Government, known as Choice of Super, means you can choose another fund for these contributions. At GESB, we support this initiative and encourage you to learn as much as you can about your super. This will help you make the right choice for your situation and retirement goals.

Stay with us or choose another fund

If your employer contributions are being paid into your West State Super or GESB Super account, you can:

• Continue to have your contributions paid to us
  You don’t need to do anything and your contributions will continue as usual.
• Choose another fund
  If you choose to change to another fund, your account with GESB will be closed. It's important to note that if you close your account and leave the public sector, you can't re-join GESB.
  
  Before closing your account, you may want to read about future changes we're making that may impact your decision. 
  
  If you've decided to choose another fund, you'll need to complete the Standard choice form and provide a copy to your employer. You’ll also need to provide a letter from your new fund to confirm it is a complying fund and will accept contributions from your employer.

Not sure what type of account you have? Check Member Online, look at your statement or call us on 13 43 72.

Factors to consider when choosing a super fund

Australia's financial industry regulator, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, provides key features to look for in a super fund. They recommend you ask about the following elements for any super fund you consider:

• Fees and charges - and how these are paid
• Whether insurance cover is included
• Your investment options and strategies
• The fund’s track record and any extra services

As one of our members, you can enjoy below median fees¹, convenient insurance cover, a choice of investment plans and much more.

Make the most of our tools, services and expertise

If you'd like to learn more and make informed decisions about how to manage your super and retirement savings, we can help. As a GESB member, you have access to:

• Tools including calculators, seminars and webinars
• Member Online, a secure way to manage your account
• Our Perth-based Member Services Centre to help with your questions by phone or online
• Our Retirement Options Service

At GESB, we have over 85 years’ experience managing the super savings of current and former WA public sector employees.

With around 247,000 members and over $39 billion in funds under management (as at 31 March 2024), we're the largest super fund in WA^*.

Understand the consequences of changing your super

If you are a West State Super or Gold State Super member, you need to understand the unique benefits available to you, as well as the consequences, including the tax implications, of changing your account.

If you decide to transfer your super to another fund, your decision may be irreversible. Please read:

• Choosing the best option for your super if you’re a West State Super member
• Choosing the best option for your super if you’re a Gold State Super member

We strongly recommend you seek financial advice to suit your personal circumstances before making a decision.

1 SuperRatings Smart database as at 31 December 2023. Based on an average balance of $50,000, fees for the My West State Super plan, the My GESB Super plan and the RI Allocated Pension Balanced plan are below the industry median. Fees includes administration, investment, and transaction fees and costs. Fees may change periodically.
* Research Solutions, Member and employer satisfaction research, 2022 and SuperRatings 2023 Annual Benchmarking Report.