MPs to get super boost


South Australia's new MPs have won a big superannuation benefits increase.

Deputy Premier Kevin Foley and his opposition counterpart Mitch Williams on Tuesday announced a rise in the compulsory superannuation contributions for MPs elected since 2006 from nine to 15.4 per cent.

Mr Foley said the change would bring them into line with federal MPs and also restored equity with other state MPs elected before 2006 who enjoyed a better super scheme.

"There has been a long-standing discrepancy between MPs regarding their superannuation arrangements," he said.

"Members elected prior to 2006 have defined-benefit superannuation arrangements that provide a pension entitlement, whereas those elected in 2006 and after receive only a basic contribution as part of an accumulation scheme."

Mr Williams said the reforms were appropriate and a bipartisan approach to the changes was sensible.

"Members have been saying that in effect, they are being remunerated less than some of their counterparts for doing the same work," he said.

"This is something that needs to be rectified."

The changes will be backdated to the March 2010 state election and will benefit 32 MPs elected since 2006.

The government has estimated the extra cost at $340,000 a year.