Council staff who have lost their senior staff status, but who continue to be paid under a flexible remuneration package, would have an opportunity to make pre-tax superannuation contributions to the First State Superannuation Scheme (FSSS). Provided their employer agrees, they can make the same level of pre-tax contributions to FSSS as they previously would have made to PSESS. Membership of PSESS for such officers would convey no significant special benefit, as the benefit design and the investment performance of FSSS and PSESS are comparable. The one area of difference is that PSESS offers the option of purchasing more generous death and disability insurance cover using pre-tax contributions than is currently available in FSSS. However, the insurance arrangements in FSSS are being generally reviewed.

Enquiries about having positions approved for PSESS access should be directed to Ms Annemarie Vu, on (02) 9228-3527.

For further information about FSSS, please contact the Advisory Service of the Superannuation Administration Authority of New South Wales, on 9238-5666, or on its toll-free number 1800 45-1112, if you are outside the Sydney metropolitan area. The Advisory Service will also be able to provide information to PSESS members/former members about the disposition of their benefit once membership of PSESS ceases.