Superannuation and SMSFs

Is a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) right for you? Or do you already have one and want to make it work harder?

With over 900,000 Australians managing their own SMSFs, it’s a popular option—but it’s not suitable for everyone. With so much media attention around SMSFs and property investment, it’s essential to have accurate, expert advice so you can make an informed decision.

To assist you to make a correctly informed choice, here are the FACTS:

Is it expensive to set up a SMSF?

No, it isn’t. Setting up an SMSF is more accessible than many people think. You’ll need a SMSF Trust Deed and a corporate trustee structure (which we recommend for control and compliance). Our setup fee is $3,000 + GST, which includes all legal documentation, establishment of a cash management account, and everything required to get your SMSF fully compliant. For example, with a $200,000 balance, setup costs equate to around 1.5% of your super—a relatively small investment in your long-term financial future.

What are the ongoing running costs of a SMSF?

Ongoing administration costs can start from approximately $200 + GST per month, covering tax returns, financial statements, and trustee documentation, plus around $500 + GST annually for an independent audit. These costs are often competitive when compared to traditional super funds, particularly when you consider the control and flexibility an SMSF provides.

How does a SMSF compare with standard super?

A comparison of an SMSF to a standard, off-the-shelf superannuation fund (i.e. one available through CBA, BT, etc through most advisers or the banks directly) would be:

	SMSF	Retail Super Fund
Super Fund size:	$150,000	$150,000
SoA Fee:	$1,200 – 2,000	$1,200 – 2,000
Establishment Fee:	$3,000	1-2% = $1,500 – 3,000
Ongoing Admin:	$2,400 pa	$1,050 pa
MER (managed funds):	Nil (if shares or property)	1.8% pa = $1,500
Annual Adviser Service Fee:	Nil (if property)	1% pa = $1,500
Annual Audit Fee:	$500	Nil

Total (in year 1):	$7,100 – 7,900	$7,950 – 10,250
Total (in year 2):	$2,900	$5,250

Note: The fees are similar for setup and the first year, though the longer-term is where an SMSF may be more cost-effective than standard retail funds.

How much super do I need to set up a SMSF?

Some new media stories suggest you need at least $200,000 (or even higher) to make it cost effective to have a SMSF. We disagree. A SMSF is your family wealth creation vehicle. Even if you have as little as $100,000 in super right now, it may make sense to establish a SMSF and then set up life insurance (owned by the SMSF) on SMSF members while they are still fit and healthy. Also, in many situations using a SMSF can give you much better estate planning options.

As an example, if you have $100,000 in super and purchase a property (using a borrowing arrangement) valued at $400,000, then you would have a SMSF with $400,000 in gross assets. Assuming a capital growth rate of 5%, you would generally expect the larger amount of $400,000 growing would provide a better outcome than the smaller amount of $100,000 growing. This is why many people consider a borrowing arrangement for a SMSF.

What investments can I make in a SMSF?

An SMSF allows you to invest in a range of assets, including shares, property, cash, and term deposits. Some strategies, such as property investment using borrowing arrangements, can accelerate wealth creation. For example, leveraging a $100,000 balance to invest in a $400,000 asset may enhance long-term growth potential—although it’s important to understand the risks and compliance requirements.

General advice disclaimer

The advice provided is general advice only as, in preparing it we did not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs. Before making an investment decision on the basis of this advice, you should consider how appropriate the advice is to your particular investment needs, and objectives. You should also consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement before making any decision relating to a financial product.

Only financial planning advice provided by Ceebeks^TM Financial Solutions is associated with InterPrac Financial Planning Pty Ltd ASFL 246638

Christopher Beks (Authorised Representative no. 231937) is a director of Ceebeks^TM Financial Solutions (Authorised Representative no. 344518) and an Authorised Representative of InterPrac Financial Planning Pty Ltd ASFL 246638 and is authorised to provide personal financial advice.

Chris Beks operates under Beks and Associates Pty Ltd, Corporate Authorised Representative No. 344518

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FAQs:

It’s your own private super fund. It gives you total control over where your retirement money is invested, including residential or commercial property.

It’s great for those who want control, but it comes with “Pilot” responsibilities. We help you weigh the costs and benefits before you dive in.

Yes. This is a classic “Ceebeks Move.” It allows your business to pay rent to your super fund—essentially paying yourself.

There are setup, audit, and accounting fees. We ensure your balance is large enough that these costs are lower than the percentage fees of a big retail fund.

We handle the Mission Control. We manage the accounting, tax returns, and independent audits so you stay 100% compliant with the ATO.

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Superannuation and SMSFs