Supporting a better tomorrow
We believe that companies with good corporate behaviour make better investments. That’s why we consider environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors across our major investment holdings. And as a large investor with over 70% of funds managed in-house, we’re able to engage with companies on what matters to us.
The UniSuper difference
Integration
ESG is a shared responsibility across our investment team, and we consider it as part of the management of all our investment options.
Engagement
As a large investor with over 70% of funds managed in-house, we’re able to engage with the companies we invest in and vote on shareholder resolutions.
Choice
In addition to our standard investment options, we offer members the choice of three distinct sustainable and environmental-branded options.1
As part of our commitment to achieving our net zero targets, we encourage the companies we invest in to reduce their carbon emissions and be transparent about their activities. We also invest in companies that are developing their business to succeed in a low carbon world.
Read more about how we manage climate risks and opportunities across our investments.
What ESG means for us
For us, ESG is about investing in quality companies with good environmental, social and governance practices that deliver sustainable, long-term returns for our members.
Environment
Climate
Biodiversity
Waste and water management
Circular economy
Social
Modern slavery
Human rights
Occupational health and safety
Diversity and inclusion
Governance
Business culture, ethics and conduct
Executive remuneration
Transparent reporting
Risk management
Our ESG approach
Investing responsibly is part of our approach.
ESG is considered a shared responsibility across our investment team. We assess the ESG risks and opportunities of our investments and look to invest in assets that:
- have appropriate financial structures
- have good governance practices
- treat their workers well
- consider their environmental and social impact
- have a strong and knowledgeable board of directors
- foster good relationships with customers and the community.
Our size allows us to make a difference.
We’re one of the first super funds in Australia to build an in-house investment team. We manage over 70% of our assets in-house and the size of our fund allows us to make substantial investments. These factors make it possible for us to engage with companies on ESG issues.
We give our members multiple ways to invest responsibly.
We offer three sustainable and environmental branded options for members who want to limit their exposure to certain industries or to invest in companies addressing global environmental challenges. These are the Sustainable Balanced, Sustainable High Growth and Global Environmental Opportunities options.
Working with industry
We work closely with industry bodies to encourage responsible practice from companies and policy makers. We’re a signatory to the Principles for Responsible Investment (endorsed by the UN), a founding member of the Australian Council of Superannuation Investors, a member of the Investor Group on Climate Change, the Asian Corporate Governance Association, Climate League 2030, Climate Action 100+ and ESG Research Australia.
Articles
Our forestry assets work hard for our members’ super, so it’s vital that workers are safe in a high-risk environment.
As long-term owners, our Investments team keeps a close eye on the quality of our investments and that includes environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations.
In times of market volatility, one of the things you can control is how your super is invested.
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Things you need to know
1Note, sustainable and environmental investing mean different things to different people. Different products have different investment criteria. Read our website to find out what sustainable and environmental investing means to us and what our products invest in.