Nine industry associations have come together in a bid to address people's concerns over negative superannuation returns and the financial crisis.

Collectively known as The Superannuation Stakeholder Group, the associations will initially target mainstream media by publishing information outlining the global crisis and its affect on superannuation returns.

The announcement will coincide with the distribution of statement returns that funds will be distributing to their members next month.

"The financial crisis has been the catalyst behind the decision for the industry bodies to come together," Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) chief executive and group spokesperson Pauline Vamos said.

"We are all responsible for maintaining confidence in the industry." 

Information to media groups will include details about the global crisis, consequences of changing investment strategies and benefits of superannuation as a long-term investment.

Media will be the initial focus for the group but the broader community will be targeted later, Vamos said. 

"The joint statement can be used by superannuation funds to communicate to members, Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees,"  (AIST) chief executive Fiona Reynolds said

"From AIST's point of view we will be allowing the funds we represent to use the messages for their members. The group has given us an opportunity to bring funds together to assist members with understanding the global financial situation and the importance of long-term investing." 

The Superannuation Stakeholder Group is made up of AIST, ASFA, the Association of Financial Advisors, Australian Securities Exchange, CPA Australia, Financial Planning Association, Industry Super Network, Industry Funds Forum and the Investment and Financial Services Association.