Colonial First State Super Review

fees and investment returns

Colonial First State (CFS) is a superannuation and wealth management company established in 1988. CFS offers superannuation and retirement products to individuals, corporate entities, and superannuation fund investors. As one of Australia's leading retail super funds, Colonial First State manages nearly $150 billion in retirement savings for almost 1 million members.

We review CFS Super's performance, fees, investment options, and how it compares to Stockspot. Stockspot's Super product offers a transparent, low-cost alternative for investors who prefer ETFs and automated portfolio management to grow their retirement savings.

Who is Colonial First State Super?

Colonial First State Super is a retail superannuation fund that has been operating for over three decades. Originally known as First State Fund Management, the fund underwent several name changes before becoming Colonial First State Super. Today, it is a major player in the Australian superannuation industry, with almost $150 billion in assets under management and nearly 1 million members.

All figures are accurate as at 30 June 2025, unless otherwise stated.

CFS_Super_Homepage_May24

Learn more about Colonial First State Super

Colonial First State Super CFS Lifestage (MySuper product) currently charges:

$60 per year dollar-based administration fee

0.04% p.a. Administration fees and costs

0.57% - 0.58% p.a. (estimated) investment fees and costs

0% - 0.26% p.a. (estimated) transaction cost

0% - 0.50% of the transaction buy/sell spread

Colonial First State Super has a historic 1 year investment performance of 16.85% p.a. for its CFS Lifestage MySuper product (1975-1979) and a 5 year return of 7.35% p.a. For the same product (both as of March 2024).

Colonial First State Super does not pay a super retirement bonus.

Retirement bonuses are paid by super funds once a member reaches retirement.

Compare Colonial First State Super Fund

Colonial First State Super vs Stockspot Super

Colonial First StateStockspotLearn more about our investment approach
Investments
ETFs-only portfoliosNoYesThe benefits of combining ETFs and Super
Investment styleCombination of active and indexedIndexed onlyWhy active stock picking rarely works
Includes unlisted assetsYesNoThe risks of unlisted asset valuations
All strategies include >10% gold allocationNoYesWhy you should consider gold in your super
ESG (Sustainable) investment optionsYesYesSustainable portfolio options
Fees
Capped administration feeYesYes
Investment options with total annual cost under 1% p.a.YesYesHow Stockspot Super invests your money
Service
Personal investment advice provided at no extra feeNoYesWhy age matters for your super investment strategy
Mobile app & web dashboard accessYesYesUsing the Stockspot dashboard
Investment options beyond super available in dashboardYesYesHow Stockspot saves you time and money
Access to support via phone, webchat & emailYesYesConnect with our client care and advice team
Structure
Individual-level tax calculation for all holdingsNoYesHow is Stockspot Super tax efficient
Super fund optionDefault MySuper fund option & Choice super optionsChoice super options only
Insurance
Insurance optionGroup and individualIndividual

As at 30 June 2025

Learn more about Stockspot Super

Discover the power of low-cost index investing with Stockspot Super

An ETF-only super product with personalised advice that's tailored to your age. Stockspot Super is offered as the Stockspot MDA on Super Simplifier.

If you're looking for an alternative to traditional pooled super funds, Stockspot plans to offer Australia's first ETF-only super product. With its focus on low-cost indexing, it aims to provide a more transparent, tax-efficient, and tailored investment approach that aligns with your age.

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Frequently asked questions

Who owns Colonial First State Super?

Colonial First State Super is managed by Avanteos Investments Limited (AIL), a trustee company responsible for overseeing CFS superannuation funds. CFS itself is majority-owned by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P. (KKR) with a 55% stake, while the Commonwealth Bank of Australia holds 45%.

What does Colonial First State Super invest in?

Colonial First State Super offers a range of investment options depending on the product selected. CFS invests globally in various asset classes, including:

This diversified portfolio allows members to align their super investments with their long-term financial goals and risk preferences.

Colonial First State class action and updates

Colonial First State has been involved in a class action regarding underperformance and high fees in certain products. For those looking for the latest updates, including the Colonial First State class action payout date, visit the Colonial First State Super website. Additionally, you can access information about the Colonial First State class action update to stay informed.

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