APRA said the action arises from issues identified during APRA’s ongoing prudential supervision of AMP Super, along with matters that emerged during the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry.

“The new directions and conditions are designed to deliver enhanced member outcomes by requiring AMP Super to make significant changes to its business practices,” it said.

“Areas identified for improvement include conflicts of interest management, governance and risk management practices, breach remediation processes, addressing poor risk culture and strengthening accountability mechanisms. The directions also require AMP Super to renew and strengthen its board.”

Additionally, APRA requires AMP Super to engage an external expert on remediation and compliance with the new directions and conditions.

APRA said this is the second time it has used the broader directions power since it was granted in April following the passage of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Improving Accountability and Member Outcomes in Superannuation Measures No 1) Bill 2019.

In a public statement issued by AMP, the bank said it will fully implement the directions and additional conditions and that it has been working constructively with APRA on this matter and has already taken action on a number of the issues raised.

“In May 2019, the AMP Limited Board moved to expand the superannuation trustee boards, broadening the range of skills and experience,” it said.

“This, together with a new trustee operating model, is designed to strengthen the independence of the trustees and ensure they continue to work in the best interests of members.”

In addition, AMP said last year it significantly reduced fees on its flagship MySuper products, benefitting approximately 600,000 existing members as well as new members.

“In 2019, AMP also reduced fees to MyNorth, its flagship investment platform, benefitting superannuation members and investors,” it added.