Insights
Short articles on SMSF rules, setting up a fund, investment strategy and outsourcing. Most were first published in 2016 and 2017, and each one was reviewed against today's rules in November 2026.
Articles
These articles are general information, not advice for any fund or person. Rules and limits change: check the ATO's current figures before you act.
Tax tips for small businesses and start-ups
Published ·
Three tax tips for small business owners and start-up founders – learn your industry's rules, keep up with tax rates and changes, get good help.
For trusteesSelf-managed super fund pros and cons
Published ·
The pros and cons of an SMSF – choice over investments, concessional tax, retirement planning and insurance, against the administration, long horizon and costs.
For trustees3 basic SMSF rules you should know
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Three SMSF basics every new trustee should know – the fund works on a yearly cycle, the duties are yours, and good records make every year easier.
For trusteesTop 5 traps to avoid when investing in an SMSF
Published ·
Five traps new SMSF trustees fall into – ignoring the ATO's rules, costs nobody planned for, borrowing problems, breaching the rules and property mistakes.
For trustees6 key considerations for your SMSF investment strategy
Published ·
Six things to weigh in your SMSF investment strategy – your obligations, risk, a review of the fund's assets, tax, adaptability and insurance for members.
For trusteesCan an SMSF give you a comfortable retirement?
Published ·
Five ways an SMSF can support a comfortable retirement – start early, plan with the numbers, turn savings into a pension, stay structured, keep building.
For trusteesSMSF trustee role and responsibilities
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The six parts of an SMSF trustee's role – running the fund, meeting its costs, keeping control, understanding it, contributing and growing it well.
For trustees7 steps to setting up an SMSF
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Seven steps to set up an SMSF – get advice, prepare the trust deed, appoint trustees, register with the ATO, open an account, roll over, set a strategy.
For trustees5 tips to create an SMSF investment strategy
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Five tips for a sound SMSF investment strategy – get advice, diversify, keep up with rule changes, understand the tax and have the fund audited.
For trustees10 common SMSF mistakes to avoid
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Ten mistakes new SMSF trustees make, from starting without advice to lodging before the audit and borrowing outside the rules, and how to avoid each one.
For trusteesSMSF investment strategies you should know
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Four SMSF investment strategy basics – diversify within the rules, plan for members' changing needs, consider insurance, and have the fund audited every year.
For trustees7 things to know before setting up your SMSF
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Seven things to know before you set up an SMSF – the money it takes, the strategy, the know-how, tax, estate planning, risk and your co-trustees.