What Is Superannuation?
Superannuation is a contribution to an employee's old age pension. The Australian Government legislates that employers must contribute to a superannuation fund on behalf of staff.
Symphony Services Australia is required to contribute 9% of the artist's fees and to remit this to an Australian approved superannuation fund. Superannuation contributions must be made until the artist reaches his/her 70th birthday.
The default fund of Symphony Services Australia for artist's super payments is JUST Super. Since the introduction of Choice of Funds legislation in 2005, artists can choose their own superannuation fund, if they do not wish to join JUST Super.
In the Information pack given to you by the Artist Liaison Officer you will find a JUST Member Handbook. You need to complete the "Membership Application Form". Please do not indicate Symphony Services Australia as your "Current mailing address", but write down an address at which JUST Super can contact you personally. On an annual basis you will receive a statement from JUST Super stating the current balance held on your behalf in the fund.
Accessing Your Super
Generally, superannuation is 'preserved' in your fund until you retire from the workforce after age 55. Since 1st July 2002, superannuation fund members on temporary working visas who are departing Australia permanently (except New Zealand) are able to reclaim their superannuation contributions.
On RETURNING home you will be able to claim your superannuation benefit with the form "JUST Super Application for Payment of Benefit". It specifies all the information you need to provide with your claim. Please keep a copy of the artist's visa approval letter for the application.
Payment of these benefits has certain tax implications. It is recommended that you speak to a financial adviser before making a claim. JUST Super offers members access to licensed financial advisers through Industry Fund Services (IFS).
The first consultation is free of charge. You can call +61 1800 033 014 to be put in touch with an IFS adviser near you.
For further information, please read your JUST Super Member Handbook or contact JUST Super directly:
JUST Super Administration
PO Box 329
Spring Hill QLD 4004
Tel: +61 1300 362 672
Fax: +61 1300 360 389
Email: just@superpartners.biz
Web: www.just.com.au
Owing to stringent Privacy Legislation in Australia, Symphony Services Australia and the orchestras cannot act on behalf of the artist in obtaining information on their super account. The artist must contact JUST Super direct.
Forms and Links
For Further Information go to the Just Super Website http://www.just.com.au/
Just Super Departing Australia Super Benefit Application Form
Download as PDF Super Benefit Form