What Is A Self Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF)?
- Arnold Shields
- Jan 13, 2011
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 16, 2025
Take Control of Your Retirement Future
A Self Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF) is a private superannuation fund in Australia that has fewer than five members. Every member of the SMSF must also act as a trustee, or if the fund uses a corporate trustee structure, each member must be a director of that trustee company. This ensures that all members are actively involved in the decision-making processes of the fund.
What is a Superannuation Fund?
Superannuation funds are savings vehicles designed to provide income in retirement. They receive concessional tax treatment from the Australian government in both the accumulation phase (pre-retirement) and the pension phase (post-retirement). In exchange for these tax advantages, super funds must strictly follow regulatory requirements, and significant penalties apply for breaches of the rules.
How SMSFs Work
An SMSF is a type of trust, which means it must be established with a legally binding trust deed. This deed sets out the rules for operating the fund, in addition to requirements under superannuation law and the ATO's compliance framework.
What sets SMSFs apart is the control and flexibility they provide. Members can tailor their investment strategy to suit their personal goals, risk profile, and preferences. SMSFs also allow for a wider range of investment options, including direct property, private company shares, and collectibles – assets that are often off-limits in larger retail or industry funds.
Why SMSFs Are So Popular
Investment control – You decide where and how your super is invested.
Wider investment options – Includes assets like residential and commercial property (subject to rules), term deposits, and even gold.
Estate planning flexibility – SMSFs offer more strategies for transferring wealth to the next generation.
Pooling family assets – Families can pool superannuation balances to build wealth together.
Is an SMSF Right for You?
Managing an SMSF carries significant responsibilities. You must comply with superannuation and tax laws, maintain records, and meet ATO obligations. An SMSF is not for everyone – but for the right individuals, it offers powerful benefits, long-term tax advantages, and personalised control over retirement planning.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal financial, legal or tax advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this content at the time of publication, tax laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances vary. Dolman Bateman accepts no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage incurred as a result of acting on or relying upon any of the information contained herein. You should seek professional advice tailored to your specific situation before making any financial or tax decision.
