Discussions around a merger comes as both funds believe there is a strong alignment between the organisations, particularly around its common member profit heritage and history, and focus on serving the hospitality, tourism, recreation and sporting sectors.

Hostplus’ chief executive, David Elia, said the due diligence phase would allow both funds to more formally evaluate the merger proposal.

“We look forward to working with Club Super through this phase, during which our funds’ members and their employers will continue to receive the same high-quality service and outcomes they have come to expect of us,” he said.

Both funds have confirmed that their respective members and employers will be kept informed of the outcomes of the funds’ discussions once the opportunity has been fully explored.

“Along with Hostplus, we are keen to explore how a merger of our funds, based on shared values, our all profit to member philosophy, and focus and track record in serving the hospitality, clubs and allied sectors, would better serve our members and stakeholders both here in Queensland and nationally,” Club Super chair Sharron Caddie said.

jotham.lian@momentummedia.com.au