United States President Donald Trump has praised Australia’s superannuation system as “a good plan” that has “worked out very well,” indicating he is seriously considering a similar model for the US to help address the nation’s declining birth rate.
Trump’s remarks were made as he announced a record US$6.25 billion (A$9.5 billion) donation from Michael and Susan Dell to establish children’s investment accounts.
“There’s a certain Australian plan that people are liking and they’re talking about… for working people,” Trump said. “We’re looking at it very seriously.” When asked by a reporter if he was specifically referring to the superannuation scheme, he confirmed, “That’s what they’re talking about.”
A mandatory system would mark a significant shift from the current US retirement savings model, the 401k, where contributions are largely voluntary. Australia’s compulsory system has created the world’s fourth-largest pension pool, with the United States being a primary destination for its investments.
The Dell donation will support the “Trump Accounts” program, an initiative aimed at encouraging family growth. The funds will provide a US$250 payment to 25 million children under 11 from households with a median income below US$150,000.
This builds on the broader “Trump Accounts” program, which provides a US$1,000 investment account for every American child born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028. Children can access the funds when they turn 18.
In February, Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers visited the US to promote the superannuation scheme, a move widely interpreted as a strategic effort to build leverage in potential negotiations over tariffs.
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