UniSuper yesterday launched its upgraded financial planning network, designed to cater for the specific requirements of academics and tertiary education employees.

UniSuper, which has 418,000 members, has an unusual demographic base, with an average age per member of more than 50, as many academics elect for part-time work post-retirement.

The full planning service uses a phone-based ‘triage’ centre for initial contact and assessment of the appropriate level of advice. UniSuper has offered members limited advice for several years.

This is supported initially by offices in Victoria, NSW and Queensland, with more offices to follow next year.

Terry McCredden, UniSuper’s chief executive, said UniSuper Advice planners were salaried and received no commissions. Advice covered super strategy, wealth creation, non-super investments and insurance.