Running a self-managed super fund (SMSF) gives you the flexibility to take charge of your retirement savings but it also means keeping up with a range of deadlines throughout the financial year.

To make things easier, we’ve compiled a month-by-month guide of important lodgment dates and payment obligations for SMSF trustees. Whether you’re managing your fund solo or supported by an accountant or adviser, this calendar helps you stay organised and compliant.

Ongoing Requirements

Transfer Balance Account Reporting (TBAR)

Reportable events must be lodged within 28 days of the end of the quarter in which the event occurred.

Since 1 July 2023, all SMSFs must report quarterly, regardless of member balances. Common TBAR events include:

• Starting or stopping an account-based pension
• Receiving a death benefit income stream
• Commutations or lump sums from retirement phase accounts

Also an Employer? Don’t Miss These Dates

If you’re a trustee who also runs a business and employs staff, remember your Super Guarantee (SG) obligations fall outside your SMSF’s responsibilities but they’re just as important. Key SG contribution due dates:

• 28 July
• 28 October
• 28 January
• 28 April

The employee’s super fund must receive contributions by the due date; processing delays don’t count.

Missed a deadline? You’ll need to lodge a Superannuation Guarantee Charge (SGC) Statement and pay the SGC, which isn’t tax-deductible.

Staying Ahead of SMSF Obligations

SMSF compliance is about being proactive. A few practical tips to help:

• Set quarterly reminders for SG and BAS due dates
• Appoint your auditor early to avoid tax return delays
• Check pension payments are on track well before year-end
• Engage your tax agent or SMSF adviser to take advantage of extended lodgment periods.
• If a due date falls on a weekend or public holiday, it generally rolls to the next business day.

Need Help Managing Your SMSF?

We’re here to take the pressure off, helping you manage your SMSF with confidence while keeping everything compliant and on track for retirement. Whether you’re navigating lodgments, contributions, pensions or just want the peace of mind of professional support, we’ve got you covered.

Reach out to your Carbon accountant or book a chat today.

 

Source: All dates are based on official ATO guidelines and due dates as of July 2025. For the most accurate information tailored to your fund, we recommend speaking with your accountant or SMSF administrator.

The 2025-26 financial year is officially underway and with it comes a fresh set of tax lodgments, reporting deadlines and compliance responsibilities. Whether you’re a business owner, payroll manager or individual taxpayer, staying on top of what’s due (and when) is key to avoiding penalties and keeping things running smoothly.

To make life easier, we’ve compiled a month-by-month guide to your essential deadlines so you can stay ahead, stay compliant and stay stress-free.

Get Ahead of Your Financial Deadlines: What to Know for FY 2025–26

Want to know more about your tax time obligations and due dates

Staying ahead of your financial responsibilities isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting your cash flow, avoiding penalties, and setting your business up for long-term success. At Carbon, we help you take the guesswork out of compliance, with expert support across tax, bookkeeping, payroll, superannuation and more.

Need help meeting your obligations this financial year? Get in touch with your local Carbon team or book a consultation to see how we can support your goals in FY25–26 and beyond.

Previous Calendars:

2024-25 Financial Year Calendar – Important Tax Dates in Australia

2023-24 Financial Year Calendar – Upcoming Accounting & Bookkeeping Deadlines in Australia

2022-23 Carbon’s Financial Year Calendar – Upcoming Deadlines

We have teams located all over Australia and can help you from your nearest Carbon office or virtually.

• Accountants in Adelaide
• Accountants in Brisbane
• Accountants in Melbourne
• Accountants in Perth
• Accountants in Sydney

Division 296 introduces an additional 15 per cent tax on earnings attributable to the portion of an individual’s total superannuation balance that exceeds $3 million. Tax is assessed to the individual and is based on an aggregation of all super accounts. Strategic planning is essential before 30 June 2026 for those likely to be impacted by the tax.

While the Division 296 tax is still yet to be legislated, it’s looking increasingly likely the tax will be introduced. For individuals who may be impacted by the change, it’s critical to understand how different scenarios might play out and what they should consider.

Superannuation has always offered generous tax concessions, but the government wants to ensure these benefits are shared more fairly. The Division 296 tax targets individuals with very large super balances, aligning the system with its main purpose, helping people save for retirement.

What Are The Key Details?

Here’s how the proposed Division 296 tax is expected to work:

• The additional 15% tax applies to balances over $3 million. For example, if your balance is $3.5 million, the tax will only apply to earnings on the $500,000 above the threshold.
• Earnings include both realised and unrealised gains. This means you could be taxed on market growth, even if you haven’t sold the assets.
• The $3 million cap is not indexed to inflation, meaning more people may be affected over time as super balances grow.

Under the draft legislation, the ATO would calculate the tax and send the bill directly to you, not your super fund. You could either pay it out of pocket or withdraw the amount from your super.

Who Will Be Affected?

While only 0.5% of Australians currently have super balances over $3 million ², more people could cross this threshold in the future as their balances grow. Here are some realistic scenarios to show how this could happen across different income levels and life stages:

Age	Income	Scenario	Projected Outcome
25	$65,000 (entry-level)	A graduate starting their career with modest income and standard 11.5% SG contributions.	Likely to reach $2–$2.5 million by retirement, staying under the cap.
35	$100,000 (mid-career)	A professional with consistent income growth and a $50,000 starting balance from earlier years.	Could accumulate $3.2–$3.6 million, crossing the $3 million threshold.
45	$120,000 (steady earner)	A mid-career earner with a $250,000 starting balance and no voluntary contributions.	Likely to reach $3.5–$4 million, requiring tax planning to manage the cap.
55	$180,000 (high-income earner)	A late-career professional who has consistently maximised contributions over 30 years, starting with $400,000.	Likely to reach $5 million+, making them heavily impacted by the new tax.

For those nearing retirement, it’s important to review balances regularly. Market growth, extra contributions, or a higher starting balance could push you past the $3 million cap, making preparation and planning essential to manage the potential impact of the Division 296 tax.

Challenges of Division 296 Tax

The introduction of the Division 296 tax brings several challenges, especially for individuals who rely on superannuation for retirement and wealth planning. Here are the key issues to consider:

Cash Flow Pressure

The tax applies to market gains, including unrealised gains. In other words, you might be taxed on gains you haven’t yet realised through a sale. If you don’t have liquid assets outside of super, you may need to withdraw funds from your super account to pay the tax, reducing your long-term retirement savings. For example, holding property in your self-managed super fund (SMSF) could result in a tax bill based on increased market value, even if the property hasn’t been sold.

Impact on Estate Planning

Super has traditionally been a tax-effective way to transfer wealth to the next generation. However, the Division 296 tax reduces the attractiveness of holding high-growth assets in super, especially for balances over $3 million. Beneficiaries may inherit less if your super balance is reduced by ongoing tax liabilities or withdrawals to cover the tax. For example, if you planned to leave your super as a legacy for your children, you might need to explore alternatives such as transferring wealth outside of super or using family trusts.

No Inflation Adjustment

The $3 million cap is not indexed to inflation, meaning more Australians will exceed the threshold over time as balances naturally grow. Even individuals with modest incomes could eventually cross the cap, especially younger professionals with decades of compounding growth. For example, a 25-year-old earning $80,000 annually may not expect to be affected now but could exceed the cap by retirement.

Administrative Complexity

Tracking the growth of your super balance including unrealised gains, requires regular valuation of all assets, especially for SMSFs holding property or other illiquid investments. Managing this complexity adds administrative burden and costs, particularly for those with diverse super portfolios. For example, if your SMSF holds shares, property and private investments, each asset will need to be valued annually to comply with ATO requirements.

How Can You Prepare?

Here are some practical steps to minimise the impact of the Division 296 tax and optimise your retirement strategy:

• Check Your Super Balance: Use tools like MyGov or speak to your super fund provider to check your total super balance and project its growth over time.
• Reassess Your Investment Strategy: Review where you hold high-growth or speculative assets such as shares or property, and consider whether they’re better placed inside or outside of super. Diversifying your investments into family trusts, personal portfolios or other vehicles could reduce your tax exposure.
• Plan for Cash Flow: Develop a strategy to fund future tax payments, whether through personal savings, liquid assets within super or a mix of both. Setting aside a portion of annual returns in a liquid asset can help cover potential tax liabilities.
• Review Your Estate Plans: If you’re using super as part of your legacy planning, explore alternatives that reduce tax impact on your beneficiaries. Transferring high-growth assets to a family trust, for instance, may offer greater flexibility in wealth distribution.
• Maximise Contributions Before 2025: If you’re close to the $3 million threshold, consider maximising contributions before the Division 296 tax takes effect. Use your concessional and non-concessional caps to make additional contributions in the 2024–25 financial year.
• Seek Professional Advice: Work with a financial adviser who understands the complexities of superannuation to create a tailored plan. They can model scenarios and help you decide whether to rebalance your portfolio or explore alternative vehicles.

It’s important to remember that for the vast majority, super remains a tax-effective way to save for retirement. Even if you’re affected by the Division 296 tax, it’s still one of the best vehicles for long-term wealth building. The key is making sure your strategy is working for you, no matter what changes come your way.

How Carbon Can Help You Navigate the Division 296 Tax

Our Wealth Management team is here to simplify the process and help you make the most of your superannuation. Whether you’re just starting out, building wealth mid-career or approaching retirement, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

We’ll help you understand how your super balance might grow over time and whether this proposed tax could affect you. From there, we can develop strategies to minimise your tax exposure, such as reviewing your investments, exploring alternative structures and planning for cash flow. If estate planning is part of your financial goals, we’ll show you practical ways to protect your wealth for the next generation.

With our expert guidance, you’ll have a clear plan to manage these changes and stay in control of your financial future. Contact us today to book a consultation. Together, we’ll help you navigate these changes with confidence and secure the retirement you deserve.

Sources

¹ Most pre-retirees in the dark on Div 296, report finds, AccountantsDaily

² Expect 80,000 to have a $3m super balance by 2025: ASFA, MoneyManagement

Disclaimer: Carbon Group Wealth Pty Ltd ABN 27 651 743 734, CAR  001292171 is authorised to provide financial advice through Insight Investment Services Pty Ltd ABN  22 122 230 835  AFSL 309996 This website and any documents contain general advice only. You need to consider with your financial planner, your investment objectives, financial situation and your particular needs prior to making an investment decision. Please read our current Financial Services Guide (FSG) which can be found here. Please also read our current Privacy Policy which can be found Insight Investments Privacy Policy here. Please click on the following Adviser if you’d like to see their Adviser Profile: Blair Milne, Mark Edwards and George Kapiniaris.

The risk of an ATO audit or review remains a reality for businesses, self-managed super funds (SMSFs) and individuals. With the ATO and other government revenue authorities using advanced artificial intelligence and data-matching tools, audits are becoming more sophisticated and frequent.

Rental property income and expenses, work-related deductions, employer obligations (PAYG/FBT/SG), income tax and GST are just some of the areas the ATO continues to target. Even businesses and individuals with meticulous record-keeping and the best intentions can still be subject to an unexpected audit or review.

Increased Scrutiny Across Multiple Areas

Recent data compiled by Accountancy Insurance from Australian tax audit claims between 1 July 2024 and 31 December 2024 highlights key areas where businesses and individuals are most likely to face ATO scrutiny. The most frequently audited and reviewed areas include:

• Payroll Tax (All States): 15.28%
• Income Tax (Full/General/Combined): 12.04%
• BAS (Pre & Post Assessment): 11.08%

Below is a chart outlining Audit Shield service claims across Australia for accounting firms offering Audit Shield from 1 July 2024 to 31 December, as compiled by Accountancy Insurance.

With a strong focus on businesses and individuals across multiple tax areas, it’s clear that compliance risk is strong.  Even with the best intentions and accurate record-keeping, audits and reviews by the ATO and other government revenue authorities can happen unexpectedly.

The Financial Impact of an Audit or Review

When the ATO or another government revenue authority initiates an audit, review or investigation, the financial impact on businesses and individuals can be significant. Responding requires professional expertise, time and resources. Accountants play a crucial role in managing this process but the associated costs, especially when external specialists are needed, can add up quickly.

Even when no adjustments are necessary, the time and effort required to respond to an audit can be considerable. For small and medium businesses, this unexpected financial burden can disrupt cash flow and operations.

How Audit Shield Can Help

To help protect businesses and individuals from these unexpected costs, Carbon offers Audit Shield, a service powered by Accountancy Insurance that covers professional fees incurred when responding to audits, reviews, inquiries, or investigations initiated by the ATO and other government authorities.

Key Benefits of Audit Shield:

• It’s tax-deductible: A bonus of the Audit Shield service is that you can add it to the list of your tax deductions each year.
• You’re comprehensively covered: All of your current and previously lodged returns are covered by the Audit Shield service, even if you had another accountant taking care of your tax affairs in the past.
• There are no unplanned fees:  Where there are adjustments required to your lodged returns, our Audit Shield service will cover the cost of the professional fees, including specialists we may need to engage to assist us on your behalf (up to the prescribed cover limit).
• The ATO continues to invest in compliance efforts: With dedicated funding allocated each year to conduct audits, investigations and reviews of lodged returns for individuals, businesses and SMSFs across Australia. With such resources available to the ATO audit activity will most likely increase, even to those who have previously not been targeted.

Ensuring Peace of Mind with Carbon

We know that dealing with an ATO audit or review can be stressful and time-consuming. That’s why Carbon offer Audit Shield to clients, ensuring they have protection from unexpected professional fees associated with compliance activity. Our team is here to support you in managing your tax obligations while minimising financial disruptions caused by audits.

If you’d like to learn more about Audit Shield and how it can provide protection in the event of an ATO audit, reach out to our team today.

 

Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) have become increasingly popular among Australians looking for greater control over their retirement savings. This guide aims to provide a detailed overview of SMSFs, covering their advantages and disadvantages, compliance requirements and recent regulatory scrutiny. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clearer understanding of whether an SMSF is the right choice for you and how to manage it responsibly.

What is a SMSF?

A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) is a type of superannuation fund designed to give its members control over how their retirement savings are managed and invested. Unlike industry or retail super funds, where investment decisions are made by professional fund managers, SMSF members act as trustees, making investment decisions on behalf of the fund.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Trustees: Individuals who manage the SMSF. Trustees can either be individuals or a corporate trustee structure.
• Members: Individuals whose superannuation savings are held within the SMSF. In most cases, trustees are also members of the SMSF.
  

Pros of SMSFs

Control and Flexibility

SMSFs offer unparalleled control and flexibility. Trustees can tailor their investment strategy to suit their individual risk tolerance, investment preferences, and retirement goals. This control extends to asset allocation, investment choices, and even the timing of purchases and sales.

Investment Choices

SMSFs provide access to a broader range of investment options compared to traditional super funds. Trustees can invest in:

• Direct property
• Shares and bonds
• Cash and term deposits
• Private companies and business ventures
• Collectibles (subject to strict regulations)

Potential Cost Savings

For those with larger super balances, SMSFs can be cost-effective. While there are setup and ongoing administrative costs, these can be spread over a larger asset base, potentially reducing the overall cost per member compared to industry or retail funds.

Tax Benefits

SMSFs enjoy the same tax concessions as other super funds. Investment earnings are taxed at a concessional rate of 15%, and capital gains on assets held for more than 12 months are taxed at an effective rate of 10%. Additionally, when in the pension phase, investment earnings are generally tax-free.

Estate Planning

SMSFs offer flexible estate planning options. Trustees can tailor the fund’s rules to ensure that benefits are distributed according to their wishes, potentially providing for a seamless transfer of assets to beneficiaries.

Cons of SMSFs

Complexity and Time Commitment

Managing an SMSF involves significant administrative responsibilities. Trustees must maintain accurate records, develop and adhere to an investment strategy, and stay informed about superannuation laws and regulations. This requires a substantial time commitment and financial literacy.

Costs

While SMSFs can be cost-effective for large balances, they can be expensive for smaller ones. Setup costs, ongoing administrative expenses, accounting fees and audit costs can add up, potentially eroding the benefits of managing your own super.

Risk

With greater control comes greater risk. Poor investment decisions can significantly impact the fund’s performance. Trustees must ensure adequate diversification to manage risk effectively.

Regulatory Compliance

SMSFs are subject to strict regulatory requirements. Trustees must ensure compliance with the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (SIS Act) and the regulations set by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Non-compliance can result in severe penalties.

Lack of Compensation Scheme

Unlike APRA-regulated super funds, SMSFs do not have access to government compensation schemes in the event of fraud or theft. Trustees are solely responsible for safeguarding the fund’s assets.

 

Compliance Requirements

Trustee Responsibilities

Trustees are legally responsible for managing the SMSF in accordance with its trust deed and superannuation laws. Key responsibilities include:

• Keeping accurate records
• Preparing and implementing an investment strategy
• Ensuring the fund meets the sole purpose test (providing retirement benefits)

Annual Audits and Reporting

SMSFs must undergo an annual audit by an approved SMSF auditor. Trustees must also lodge an SMSF annual return with the ATO, which includes financial statements, audit reports and member contribution statements.

Investment Restrictions

SMSFs are subject to strict investment restrictions. Trustees cannot:

• Lend money or provide financial assistance to members or their relatives
• Acquire assets from related parties, except in limited circumstances
• Invest in in-house assets beyond the limit of 5% of the fund’s total assets

Superannuation Rules

Trustees must comply with superannuation rules, including contribution caps and conditions of release. For example, early access to superannuation savings is generally prohibited and can result in significant penalties.

 

ATO Scrutiny and Legal Considerations

Accessing Super Early

The ATO has been increasingly vigilant in monitoring illegal early access to superannuation funds. Withdrawing superannuation before reaching the preservation age (except in very limited circumstances) is illegal and can result in severe penalties, including fines and disqualification as a trustee.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with SMSF regulations can attract significant penalties. The ATO can impose administrative penalties, disqualify trustees, or even wind up the SMSF. It’s crucial for trustees to stay informed and adhere to all regulatory requirements.

Recent Regulatory Changes

The ATO has introduced or proposed key changes affecting SMSFs for the 2024 tax returns. Trustees need to be aware of these updates to ensure compliance and to prepare for potential future requirements:

Trust Income Schedule

From the 2024 income year, SMSFs receiving distributions from trusts must complete and attach a Trust income schedule to their annual return. This schedule details each trust distribution received.

Non-Arm’s Length Expenses (NALE)

Non-Arm’s Length Expenses refer to costs or expenses that are not on commercial terms. For example, if an SMSF pays below-market rates for services or assets, it could result in higher taxable income for the fund. The ATO’s proposed changes, starting from 1 July 2018, will:

• Apply a ‘twice the difference’ approach for small funds, doubling the difference between what was paid and what should have been paid on commercial terms.
• Exempt large funds from certain NALE rules but still subject them to other non-arm’s length income rules.

Small Business Energy Incentive

A proposed measure (not yet law) may offer small businesses a 20% bonus deduction on eligible energy-efficient assets, which could indirectly benefit SMSFs holding business assets.

Trustees should stay updated on these developments to ensure their SMSF remains compliant and takes advantage of any beneficial changes.

 

How to Decide if an SMSF is Right for You

Assessing Suitability

When considering an SMSF, evaluate the following factors:

• Financial Literacy: Do you have the knowledge and skills to manage your own superannuation?
• Investment Experience: Are you confident in making investment decisions and managing risks?
• Balance Size: Generally, SMSFs are more cost-effective for those with larger balances (e.g., $200,000 or more).
• Time Commitment: Are you prepared to dedicate the time required to manage an SMSF?

Seeking Professional Advice

It’s essential to seek professional advice before setting up an SMSF. Financial advisors, accountants and SMSF specialists can provide valuable insights and help ensure that an SMSF is the right choice for your circumstances.

 

Conclusion

Self-Managed Super Funds offer numerous benefits, including control, flexibility and potential cost savings. However, they also come with significant responsibilities and risks. It’s crucial to understand the pros and cons, comply with regulatory requirements and seek professional advice to ensure that an SMSF is the right fit for your retirement planning.

If you’re considering setting up an SMSF or need advice on managing your existing fund, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experienced financial advisors is here to help you make informed decisions and ensure your SMSF is compliant and aligned with your financial goals. Reach out to us today for personalised advice and support.

 

 

Investing in commercial property through a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) can be a powerful strategy for growing your retirement savings. However, it comes with a set of responsibilities and considerations. Before proceeding, it’s crucial to speak to a financial advisor to understand the implications fully.

Advantages of Buying Commercial Property Through Your SMSF

One of the big advantages of setting up a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) is the ability to make investments that suit your personal or business financial strategy. For some, this includes property. If you’re considering purchasing commercial property through your SMSF, it’s crucial to understand exactly what’s involved.

Here are some key advantages:

• Tax Efficiency: Benefit from the 15% superannuation income tax rate, making it a tax-effective option.
• Self-Rental Income: Grow your SMSF quicker by paying rent to yourself instead of a landlord.
• Asset Payoff Strategy: Hold your business premises in your SMSF and rent it out to your business. This allows you to effectively pay off your assets while keeping the funds within your SMSF.
• Asset Protection: Increased asset protection, as your business is a separate entity from your SMSF.
• Secure Tenancy: Your SMSF holds the property, ensuring secure tenancy for your business.

Disadvantages of Buying Commercial Property Through Your SMSF

• Limited Access to Funds: Hard to quickly convert property into cash.
• High Upfront Costs: Significant initial expenses including deposit, stamp duty and legal fees.
• Strict Regulatory Compliance: Must adhere to strict SMSF regulations to avoid penalties.
• Complex Borrowing Arrangements: Setting up and managing a Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangement adds complexity.
• Reduced Diversification: Large investment in one property increases risk.
• Vacancy and Tenant Risk: Loss of rental income during vacancies or tenant defaults impacts cash flow and SMSF performance.

Who Should Consider Buying Commercial Property Through Their SMSF?

Business Owners

SMSFs are particularly beneficial for business owners. The flexibility of this structure allows you to purchase your business property through your SMSF. This means that your SMSF uses your rent payments to pay off the loan, with the rent going directly to your SMSF as income.

Medical Professionals

Buying medical premises is a popular strategy for doctors and dentists. In practices where multiple medical professionals work together, each professional likely has a substantial amount in their super, providing the flexibility to diversify super assets into commercial property.

How Buying Commercial Property Through Your SMSF Works

1. Assess Your Balance: Ensure you have the correct balance for a commercial property purchase. If buying outright, you’ll need the full cash amount in your SMSF plus stamp duty (approximately 5%).
2. Organise Financing: If borrowing, expect to need a deposit of 30%-40% plus stamp duty. Additional cash will be required for legal expenses and ongoing costs like rates, strata fees and insurance.
3. Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangement (LRBA): This arrangement protects your SMSF assets from the lender if the property loan fails. Set up a bare trust within your SMSF to isolate the commercial property investment from other investments.
4. Select and Purchase Property: Choose a property within your financial capacity. Ensure the purchase contract is signed in the name of your SMSF.
5. Set Up Lease Arrangements: Establish a commercial lease at market rates, even if leasing to your own business. Document this with a lease agreement.
6. Compliance and Management: Ensure ongoing compliance with annual rent payments and SMSF regulations, maintaining proper documentation and management.

Responsibilities When Purchasing a Commercial Property in an SMSF

Compliance with Superannuation Laws

Ensure the purchase complies with the Sole Purpose Test, which means the investment should solely provide retirement benefits to fund members. Follow the investment strategy guidelines outlined in your SMSF’s trust deed and maintain proper documentation and record-keeping to satisfy legal and audit requirements set by the ATO.

Property Management

Take responsibility for property upkeep, tenant management and dealing with any disputes. Ensure the property remains a sound investment that aligns with the fund’s long-term strategy.

Regular Valuations

Conduct regular property valuations to ensure compliance with SMSF regulations and to accurately report the fund’s assets.

Organising Lending and What You Need

Lending Criteria

Lenders typically finance up to 70% of the property’s value. Demonstrate that the SMSF can service the loan from the fund’s cash flow.

Required Documentation

Ensure your SMSF Trust Deed allows borrowing and investment in commercial property. Document how the property investment aligns with the fund’s strategy and provide recent financial statements of the SMSF to the lender.

Borrowing Structure

Set up a Bare Trust (or Custodian Trust) where the property title is held on behalf of the SMSF until the loan is repaid.

Is Commercial Property the Right Strategy for Your Super?

Investing in commercial property can diversify your SMSF portfolio and provide a stable income stream. However, consider the following:

• Primary Purpose of Superannuation: The main goal is to grow assets that can provide an income in retirement. Evaluate if a commercial property truly supports this objective.
• Complex Financing: Securing finance for commercial property is more complex than residential. Work with lenders who understand SMSFs and offer competitive rates.
• Long-term Implications: Assess the long-term implications and liquidity needs of your SMSF. Commercial properties can offer strong returns but also come with risks such as longer vacancy periods.

When acting as an SMSF trustee, think with a trustee mindset, ensuring all decisions align with the goal of providing for your retirement.

Work With a Financial Planner

Investing in commercial property through an SMSF can offer substantial benefits, including potential tax advantages and a steady income stream. However, it requires careful planning, compliance and a clear strategy. Consulting with professionals such as accountants, brokers and financial planners is essential to navigate this complex process and ensure it aligns with your overall retirement strategy.

If you’re considering this investment route, speak to our team at Carbon Group. We offer expert guidance in accounting, finance and wealth management to help you make informed decisions and maximise your SMSF’s potential.

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