Superannuation Fundamentals

Gain a deep understanding of Australia’s superannuation system, including its regulations, taxation and retirement income strategies.

This subject meets the specialist knowledge – superannuation component under ASIC’s Regulatory Guide 146 Licensing: Training of financial product advisers.

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Subject overview

STUDY MODE

100% online

AQF LEVEL

NEXT INTAKE

11 Jan 2027

SUBJECT DURATION

12 weeks

SUBJECT FEE

$720.00

This subject of the Diploma of Financial Services provides a comprehensive understanding of the superannuation industry in Australia, exploring its role in retirement funding. Superannuation is a key retirement savings tool, supported by government incentives and concessional tax treatment.

Examine superannuation legislation and regulations, fund structures and taxation rules, gaining insights into how funds are designed and managed. The subject also covers retirement income stream options, as well as the taxation and social security implications associated with retirement planning.

This subject meets the specialist knowledge – superannuation requirements under ASIC’s Regulatory Guide 146 (RG 146) for financial product advisers providing general advice.

For more information, please refer to the subject outline.

Diploma of Financial Services >

Subject information

Learning outcomes

On the successful completion of this subject, individuals should be able to:

Explain retirement planning in the Australian context
Describe the key elements of superannuation, including the contribution, accumulation and payment of benefits
Analyse the taxation implications and available benefits under the social security system
Identify retirement planning strategies for different types of clients

Topics covered

Retirement planning and superannuation in Australia
Superannuation contributions
Contribution strategies
Accessing superannuation and benefit payments
Death benefits, insurance and estate planning
Social security and aged care
Superannuation strategies

Reading list

There is no prescribed text for this subject.

Individuals are provided with key readings and access to Kaplan Professional’s online databases. Individuals are encouraged to research and read widely on the topic.

Assessments

Assessment Type	Assessed	Topics	Weighting
Quiz 1	Week 4	1-3	20%
Task	Week 7	3-4	20%
Quiz 2	Week 10	4-7	20%
Assignment	Week 12	1-7	40%

Click here for an assessment timetable.

Previous study requirements

Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

Advanced standing may be awarded in recognition of prior learning (RPL) for your prior studies that are directly related to the qualification. This may include credit for generic knowledge component of Tier 1 RG146 studies.

Get detailed guidance on the application process here.

Assumed knowledge

Not applicable.

Course transition subject equivalence

Assessment dates N/A

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Fees and FEE-HELP

Locked-in pricing and FEE-HELP

To safeguard against any future price increases, you can lock in the price of your subject enrolment fees for the duration of your qualification. Many eligible students use FEE-HELP, which is a Commonwealth Government loan. This means you do not need to pay to study upfront, helping you to reduce some of your financial burden . Please note that government fees apply for the use of FEE-HELP for higher education diploma subjects. Click here for further information.

Tuition fees

When you apply to study with Kaplan Professional, you pay for the subjects you’ve enrolled in for each study period.

The tuition fee listed below applies to all Diploma of Financial Services subjects:

Enrolment fees	Fee
Subject fee 2026	$720 (GST free)

If you are paying by cheque, utilising a deferral, or have a preferred client code, you will need to download and submit a hard copy of the form below.

Download a new student application (enrolment) form>

Other fees

Further fees may apply. Click here for a full list of fees and allowances.

Further fees