How to invest in shares inside your super (without starting an SMSF)
CareSuper’s Direct Investment Option (DIO) lets you choose from a range of investments within your super, without taking on the paperwork or responsibility of running an SMSF.
Can you invest your super in shares without an SMSF?
Yes. With CareSuper’s DIO, you can invest in S&P/ASX 300 shares and select ETFs from within your super account, without starting an SMSF.If you’ve been looking for answers to questions like “can I invest my super in shares?” or “which super funds let you invest in ETFs?”, the DIO offers you a way to be more hands-on with your super, while giving you peace of mind by staying within a trusted super fund.
For many members, it’s a practical way to take more control without moving to a self-managed structure.
Curious?
Start investing your way with CareSuper’s Direct Investment Option — no SMSF required.
What does direct investing through your super actually mean?
Direct investing simply means you’re more involved in how your super is invested.
Instead of choosing only a premixed investment option, you can select individual investments from an approved list. CareSuper continues to manage the administration of your account behind the scenes—things like account keeping and audit requirements—while you maintain the tax benefits of investing in a super fund.
You have one super account, but with more flexibility over where your money is invested.
What can you invest in through CareSuper’s Direct Investment option?
With the DIO, you can build your own mix of investments from an approved list, including:
- Shares from the S&P/ASX 300
- Exchange traded funds (ETFs)
- Listed investment companies (LICs)
- Term deposits
- Cash
- Alongside, at least $6,000 in CareSuper’s other investment options
You can combine these in a way that suits your goals, investment timeframe and risk appetite.
Why do people use CareSuper’s Direct Investment option?
If you like the idea of managing your own investments but don’t want the complexity or cost of an SMSF, the DIO offers a smart middle ground.
Here’s what our members tell us they like:
- More control over your super
Choose shares, ETFs, LICs, term deposits and cash alongside CareSuper’s other investment options, all in one place.
- Investing in shares and ETFs inside super
Take a more active approach while keeping the tax benefits of super.
- Less admin to worry about
CareSuper handles the reporting and record-keeping, so you can focus on your investment choices.
- Easy-to-use online tools
Manage your investments through a secure online platform with access to data, research and reporting.
- Support when you need it
CareSuper’s team is available to help if you have questions along the way.
Is direct investing through super right for you?
Direct investing can suit people who:
- want to be more involved in managing their super
- are comfortable making their own investment decisions
- like having flexibility over where their money is invested
- want more control without the complexity of an SMSF
For many people thinking about an SMSF, the DIO is a simpler, safer and far more convenient alternative.
A few things to be aware of
Before getting started, it helps to understand how fees and risk work.
Fees
The DIO has competitive fees that cover brokerage, transaction costs, and platform administration. Fees are applied when you buy or sell investments, and a fixed monthly member fee so you’ll always know what you’re paying.
Investment risk
All investments can rise and fall in value. When choosing your own investments, keep in mind:
- Short-term changes are normal, and it’s important to focus on your long-term goals.
- Concentrating too much in one investment or sector can increase risk. To help you diversify and manage this, there’s a 20% limit on shares, ETFs and LICs.
You’re in control of your investment choices, so it’s worth making sure they align with your goals and comfort level.
Frequently asked questions about direct investing through super
Do I need an SMSF to invest in shares?
Can I buy ETFs inside my super without an SMSF?
Is direct investing available to all CareSuper members?
Who is direct investing best suited to?
Get started with direct investing through CareSuper
Disclaimer
This is general information only and doesn’t take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision about CareSuper, you should consider if this information is right for you. You may also wish to consult a licensed financial adviser.
Before making a decision about CareSuper, you should consider if this information is right for you and read our Product disclosure statement, Target market determination and Financial services guide. These are available at caresuper.com.au/pds or by calling 1800 005 166.
Past performance isn’t a reliable indicator of future performance. The value of investments can rise or fall, and investment returns can be positive or negative.
CareSuper Pty Ltd (Trustee) ABN 14 008 650 628, AFSL 238718. CareSuper (Fund) ABN 74 559 365 913. Advice is provided by CareSuper Advice ABN 78 102 167 877, AFSL 284443. Consider the PDS and TMD at caresuper.com.au/pds. A copy of the Financial this discservices guide for CareSuper is available at caresuper.com.au/fsg.