Last year almost two-thirds of superannuation contributions received by APRA-regulated funds were paid back out to members as benefits. This shift from 'stash' to 'splash' has significant ramifications for how superannuation funds define their missi ... Read more

The merger of superannuation funds (funds) is becoming a hot topic following several years of scrutiny. Indeed the Australian Securities and Investments Commission has recently stated publicly that it will look to litigate against underperforming funds ... Read more

We compare the option of a director nominating an alternate director in contrast to nominating a successor director in a self-managed superannuation fund ('SMSF') context to determine which is better. In the first section, we will explore the role of ... Read more

This article covers the main ways a person becomes a disqualified person, the consequences of disqualification and the options available to those who are disqualified. (We refer to a trustee in this article as covering both individual trustees of an ... Read more

The new law pertaining to 'ipso facto' clauses came into operation on 1 July 2018. This article highlights the relevance of the new law for SMSFs. Note that the law in this area is complex and a detailed and careful analysis is required to properly ... Read more

On 24 May 2018, the Government announced a 12 month superannuation guarantee (SG) amnesty that proposes to give employers an opportunity to rectify past SG non-compliance without penalty. Read more

The Treasury Laws Amendment (Reducing Pressure On Housing Affordability Measures No. 1) Act 2017 (Cth), which introduces downsizer contributions and the First Home Super Saver Scheme, received royal assent on 13 December 2017. This article discusses ... Read more

Technology and automation are driving rapid changes to the super industry. The emergence of low-cost SMSF administrators has considerably reduced the costs and complexity of setting up and operating an SMSF. Read more

Valuing the investments of your SMSF is a key component in preparing the fund's financial statements. Read more

Introduction to currency risk management To achieve sufficient asset diversification Australian superannuation funds are compelled to diversify into offshore assets. The typical superannuation fund default option will hold more than 30% in international ... Read more