SPIN stands for Superannuation Product Identification Number. A SPIN identifies a specific super fund product — not the fund or trustee entity itself. It was used by government bodies and financial institutions to distinguish between different products offered by the same superannuation provider.
Why did SPIN numbers exist?
A single super fund can offer multiple products — for example, separate accumulation and pension products, or different investment options under one trustee. Before SuperStream, each of these products needed its own identifier so contributions and rollovers reached the correct one. The SPIN filled that role, administered under guidelines set by the Super EC Council and implemented via the APIR system.
Has the SPIN number been replaced?
Largely, yes. Since the introduction of SuperStream in July 2014, the USI (Unique Superannuation Identifier) has become the standard way to identify super fund products for contributions and rollovers. Many funds still display their historical SPIN for reference, but it's largely redundant for day-to-day use — if you're filling in a super choice form today, you'll generally be asked for a USI, not a SPIN.
Where can you verify a SPIN?
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) maintains records of superannuation product identifiers. If a SPIN is listed on your fund's page, it's provided for historical and reference purposes only.
To look up identifiers for your fund, including its current USI, find your superannuation fund here.
