The platform market, together with the aligned SMSF market ($1.8 trillion FUM), offers products and services that are most closely aligned to the Retirement Income Covenant (RIC). These superannuation market segments are the best positioned offers to achieve the individual objectives of members.

Equity Trustees also says in its submission that recent licence conditions introduced by APRA on trustees of platforms will lead to some narrowing of investment choice on platforms.

“Equity Trustees contends that this APRA initiative alone is sufficient to ensure the continued efficient, fair and honest functioning of the superannuation platform market and that further regulatory changes are not required – the market is already the most fit for purpose superannuation market segment.”

In its submission, Equity Trustees argued that it will not be feasible for the drafters of the legislation to precisely define between ‘platforms’ and ‘RSE Licensee of platforms’ given the offers provided by all superannuation funds are increasingly overlapping and will do so more in the future as more funds design offers demanded under the RIC (see diagram).

Equity Trustees also says in its submission to Treasury on ‘Enhancing Member Protections in the Superannuation System’ that there is no sound basis for banning the professional independent trustee model, which looks after the interests of 990,000 members and has grown from approximately $10 billion to $150 billion in ten years.

“The professional independent trustee model has been the fastest growing segment of the superannuation market in the last ten years and has been responsible for material innovation in the industry,” it says in the submission.

“The model has a solid record of delivering to members and has not suffered from the high profile systemic failures that have been prevalent in the vertically integrated in-house models – both commercial models and Not-For-Profit models.”

Equity Trustees says it strongly supports proposals by Treasury to reform Managed Investment Schemes (MISs) and their Responsible Entities (REs), as well as regulation of Lead generators.

It says that the most critical point of failure in the value chain regarding Shield Master Fund and First Guardian Master Fund was the two Responsible Entities.

“The misuse of scheme assets for purposes other than investment as disclosed to investors – as the liquidators’ reports have revealed – is clearly fraud or theft causing loss to the superannuation funds and their members.”

“We welcome the reform of MISs and their REs that was the subject of Treasury’s first consultation and ASIC’s consultation in respect of the Net Tangible Asset capital requirements for REs.

The post Independent trustee model has been highly successful – Equity Trustees appeared first on AdviserVoice.

Katrina Harper

When a child receives a life-changing compensation payout or trust, the decisions made in the months that follow can shape their financial security for life.

For many families, these moments come in the wake of trauma – a serious injury, medical negligence, or the loss of a parent – bringing not just emotional strain, but the responsibility of managing a significant sum of money intended to last a lifetime.

The role of a professional trustee is critical in ensuring these funds are not only protected but used in a way that supports a child’s long-term wellbeing, independence and quality of life.

A lifetime shaped by early decisions

Consider the case of a young child who received a substantial compensation payout following a medical incident that resulted in lifelong disability. With complex care needs and no clear way to predict future costs, the responsibility of managing those funds extended far beyond simple investment decisions.

Without the right structure in place, there is a real risk the funds could be mismanaged, depleted too quickly, or influenced by competing family interests.

“People often see a large sum of money and assume it will last forever,” said Katrina Harper, National Manager, Health & Personal Injury at Equity Trustees. “But when you factor in lifelong care, medical needs and inflation, that capital needs to be carefully managed to ensure it supports the beneficiary for decades.”

Trustees play a central role in determining how, when and why funds are released – decisions that directly impact the beneficiary’s quality of life.

Balancing protection with independence

While safeguarding capital is critical, a well-managed trust is about more than preservation. Trust structures can fund essential needs such as medical care, specialised equipment and daily living support, while also supporting education, housing and social participation.

Jonathan Guthrie-Jones, National Manager, Continuing Trusts at Equity Trustees said, “It’s about striking the right balance – ensuring the beneficiary is cared for, while also helping them build the skills and confidence to manage money over time.”

For minors, trustees often introduce a level of oversight that encourages better financial behaviours. Rather than receiving unrestricted access to funds, beneficiaries are guided to think about their spending decisions – a process that helps prepare them for eventual financial independence at vesting.

Navigating complex family dynamics

In many cases, trustees are also required to manage competing interests within families, particularly where significant sums of money are involved.

“Unfortunately, money can create tension, even in well-intentioned families,” Guthrie-Jones said. “An independent trustee provides a layer of protection, ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of the beneficiary.”

This includes implementing safeguards such as paying suppliers directly, verifying expenses, and working with medical professionals to ensure funds are used appropriately.

In one case, a testator (the person who made the will) left a sum of money to a grandchild, to be received at age 21. A separate trust was also established for the child’s mother, who had a history of poor financial management. To safeguard the grandchild’s inheritance from potential claims once the funds vested, Equity Trustees facilitated the purchase of a home in the grandchild’s name before they reached vesting age. This approach ensured the testator’s intentions were fulfilled, while protecting the inheritance from being accessed by the mother.

Funding life’s major milestones

One of the most important and complex aspects of trustee decision-making is determining how to fund major life milestones, like purchasing a house to live in.

For example, after losing their mother and with no father present, a young beneficiary was cared for by their grandparents, but they were unable to provide a stable living environment. Acting in the beneficiary’s best interests, Equity Trustees supported the purchase of a home before they took full control of their funds, ensuring the property was both appropriate for their needs and financially sustainable for the future.

“When considering large decisions like housing, we look at whether it’s in the beneficiary’s best interests both now and in the future,” Harper said. “We also assess affordability because every dollar spent today impacts the income available tomorrow.”

Planning for a successful transition

As beneficiaries approach adulthood, trustees play an important role in preparing them for the transition to financial independence.

This may include gradually involving them in financial discussions, encouraging responsible decision-making, and connecting them with professional financial advisers.

“A successful outcome is when a young person understands the value of what they’ve been given and uses it to support their future – whether that’s education, housing or long-term security,” Harper said.

A decision that lasts generations

With compensation and testamentary trusts often lasting many years the importance of early decisions cannot be overstated.

“The structure you put in place from day one sets the tone for everything that follows,” Guthrie-Jones said. “It’s about protecting the funds, but also about creating opportunities so that the beneficiary can live with dignity, independence and security.”

As families navigate some of life’s most challenging circumstances, the right trustee decision can make all the difference.

The post The trustee decision that can protect a child’s financial future for decades appeared first on AdviserVoice.

Jodi Kennedy

Advances in medical science benefit everyone and this UNESCO World Health Day on 7 April, Equity Trustees is highlighting the important role structured giving plays in supporting Australia’s medical researchers and health care providers in delivering better health outcomes for all.

Charitable giving remains a vital source of funding in parts of the health sector – including medical research, disability services, healthcare access, mental health and wellbeing, and medical support services.

Equity Trustees facilitated $101.9 million in charitable grants and bequests directed to the for-purpose sector in 2025, with 39% of that funding going to support medical research and health initiatives.

“Philanthropic giving is a key element in the funding mix allowing medical researchers and health providers to continue their important work. We’re proud to support philanthropists who are making a meaningful difference to health outcomes in our community,” said Jodi Kennedy, General Manager of Philanthropy and Community Trustee Services at Equity Trustees.

One powerful example of this is the Equity Trustees Medical Research and Health Partnership Program, which combines the strength of 28 philanthropic trusts to help fuel breakthroughs in medical research. The Program has committed $7 million over five years to the Translational Research Institute Foundation, Monash Partners Academic Health Science Centre, and Sydney Health Partners, to support their groundbreaking medical research and advance the future of Australian healthcare. This adds to $10 million already committed to the Program since its establishment in 2017.

“As the trustee of more than 1200 philanthropic funds, Equity Trustees can align trusts with similar goals and help to coordinate their giving. This magnifies their impact, while continuing to honour the intent of every client who entrusts us with their legacy,” Ms Kennedy said.

“By facilitating funding through these partnerships with leading research organisations, we’re helping to accelerate medical discoveries and advancements in healthcare that can improve lives for generations to come.”

Ms Kennedy said ongoing philanthropic support through giving structures such as the philanthropic funds, trusts and foundations that contribute to the Equity Trustees Medical Research and Health Partnership Program delivers much greater impact than making one-off contributions.

“Establishing a private or public giving fund gives families the opportunity to dedicate charitable capital, receive immediate tax benefits, and provide ongoing support to eligible charities. This approach to giving is sustainable and creates enduring value for initiatives – whether that’s backing breakthroughs in medical science, or fostering developments in areas such as education, the environment, or community development,” Ms Kennedy said.

The post Make a lasting contribution to boost better health outcomes for all Australians this World Health Day appeared first on AdviserVoice.

Jodi Kennedy

As the world marks UNESCO’s International Women’s Day on 8 March, Equity Trustees is supporting the work of Australian Investing in Women (AIIW) to promote gender-wise giving.

Research by AIIW demonstrates how gender equality leads to safer societies, more productive economies and a fairer world for all of us. When we invest in women, communities thrive, economies strengthen and progress accelerates for everyone

Australia ranked 24^th in the world for gender equality but there are many critical areas in which charitable giving remains a vital source of funding to support women’s contributions, in areas such as scientific research, including medical fields in Australia where women comprise 52% of the research workforce[1].

“Philanthropic giving plays a key role in ensuring female scientists and researchers have the resources and opportunities they need to excel,: said Jodi Kennedy, General Manager of Philanthropy and Community Trustee Services at Equity Trustees. “We’re proud to support philanthropists who are making a meaningful difference in the scientific community.”

One standout example is the Dyson Bequest, managed by Equity Trustees. The Dyson Bequest Fellowship at the Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research is a five-year commitment that invests directly in the development of women scientists and medical researchers.

This initiative not only supports individual career advancement but also contributes to improved health outcomes for communities everywhere.

The Dyson Bequest marked its 25^th year in 2025, with two generations of the family carrying on the legacy. Rose Gilder, daughter of Janie Dyson who founded the Bequest with her husband Bruce Dyson, works closely with John Dyson, nephew of Bruce and Janie Dyson, to lead the granting.

“We’ve met some extraordinary women doing life-changing work. I’d like to think we’ve played a small part in helping them get there,” Rose Gilder said, reflecting on the impact the Bequest is having on creating pathways for women in science.

Ms Kennedy said structured giving, like the Dyson Bequest, which is stewarded through the Equity Trustees Charitable Foundation, extends well beyond one-off donations.

“Giving funds, whether private or public funds, allow families to set aside charitable capital, gain immediate tax deductions, actively grow their funds and financially support eligible charities over the long term,” she said.

“This sustainable approach to philanthropy ensures a lasting impact – whether that’s supporting initiatives that advance gender equity in science, or making a difference in areas including education, the environment, or community development.”

Equity Trustees is responsible for distributing more than $100 million of philanthropic money to our community annually. Stewarding more than $360 million, the Equity Trustees Charitable Foundation empowers individuals, families and organisations across Australia to practice structured giving during their lifetime.

This International Women’s Day, take the next step towards lasting change – discover how structured giving can support gender equity and the causes closest to your heart here.

ENDS

MEDIA INQUIRIES

The post Move beyond one off donations to support gender balance this International Women’s Day  appeared first on AdviserVoice.

Andrew Godfrey

Equity Trustees has been appointed Responsible Entity for the new River Capital High Conviction Fund, marking the beginning of an exciting new partnership with River Capital, a multi asset investment firm.

The Fund, available to institutional and wholesale investors directly, and to retail investors via platforms provides access to a focused portfolio of typically 15–20 high-quality listed companies, combined with the flexibility of daily liquidity. It aims for long-term capital growth by investing in the Investment Manager’s highest-conviction ideas, guided by a disciplined, valuation-driven approach and active engagement where appropriate. The Fund seeks a total return of RBA Cash Rate + 5% per annum, net of fees and including annual distributions.

Andrew Godfrey, Executive General Manager of Corporate and Superannuation Trustee Services at Equity Trustees, said: “We’re pleased to be partnering with River Capital to introduce this strategy to investors across Australia. The partnership reflects the growing appetite for high-conviction investment strategies, underpinned by the strength and experience of a trusted Responsible Entity. Our role is to provide a rigorous operational and regulatory framework, enabling River Capital to focus on what it does best – identifying and actively managing compelling investment opportunities.”

The Fund’s key features include a concentrated portfolio of listed equities, underpinned by active engagement with company management and boards where appropriate. This focused approach enables deeper insight into each holding, timely portfolio adjustments, and investment theses to be fully realised over time. It also positions the Fund to take advantage of marketing inefficiencies or mispricing while managing short-term market volatility. Material personal investments by the Principals, Investment Committee and investment team across River Capital Funds further supports the alignment of interests with investors.

Akshay Chopra, Portfolio Manager at River Capital, said: “At River, we approach risk differently; we see risk as the potential for permanent capital loss, the failure to compound capital, or missing on stated investment objectives. Our investment approach is to target opportunities, where intrinsic value materially exceeds market price and creates an asymmetric return profile. River Capital High Conviction Fund portfolio invests in our highest-conviction ideas – companies with mispriced value and cashflows, high quality growth businesses, and businesses trading below asset backing.”

Founded over 30 years ago, River Capital is a boutique investment manager specialising in Australian and New Zealand equities. The firm combines fundamental research, active engagement, and a valuation-driven approach to help clients achieve long-term investment outcomes.

Andrew Godfrey concluded: “As Responsible Entity, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of governance and compliance, and we’re proud to support River Capital in bringing a high-quality, concentrated equity investment strategy to investors.”

The post Equity Trustees partners with River Capital as Responsible Entity for launch of high conviction equity Fund  appeared first on AdviserVoice.

Andrew Godfrey

Equity Trustees has partnered with Blackwattle Investment Partners as Responsible Entity for the newly launched Blackwattle Equity Income Fund. This continues a partnership that has seen six funds brought to market since the investment manager commenced operations in 2023.

The Blackwattle Equity Income Fund offers access to an actively managed Australian equity income strategy focused on delivering consistent income across market cycles. Investing in listed Australian equities beyond traditional dividend-paying stocks, the strategy also utilises equity options to help generate regular income through a range of market conditions.

Andrew Godfrey, Executive General Manager of Corporate and Superannuation Trustee Services at Equity Trustees, said: “This partnership builds on our established relationship with Blackwattle and reflects the confidence we have in their investment capability and disciplined approach. We are pleased to support the launch of the Blackwattle Equity Income Fund and to continue working with a well established Australian fund manager that shares our commitment to strong governance, risk management and positive investor outcomes.”

The Fund is constructed with a strong focus on risk awareness and income resilience, using active portfolio management and options strategies to help moderate volatility and manage downside risk while maintaining exposure to Australian equity markets.

Michael Skinner the Managing Director and CIO at Blackwattle, said: “We believe that Australia is shifting from saving to spending, for the growing retiree market, the next decade is about consistent and secure income that you can live on.”
“Our Equity Income Fund is built to generate resilient income, not chase it – combining dividends, franking credits and option premium income to target 6-12% p.a. while managing downside risk.”
Rudi Minbatiwala, Portfolio Manager of the Fund, stated:

“The retirement ask is clear: high income that is sustainable, stable, and accessible. That’s the design brief behind our strategy.”
“Our Blackwattle Equity Income Strategy allows us to own high-quality companies first, then shape and enhance the outcome with options – aiming for steadier distributions at lower risk.”

Blackwattle Investment Partners is a new generation, Australian investment manager, that centres its investment philosophy on a quality approach to investment management. With over 225 years of combined experience and A$15 million in personal capital commitment, Blackwattle seeks to differentiate itself through investment excellence, transparency, and governance.

Andrew Godfrey concluded: “We look forward to continuing our partnership with Blackwattle as they expand their product offering, and to supporting investors through a structure that combines active management with strong oversight and governance.”

The post Equity Trustees partners with Blackwattle Investment Partners as Responsible Entity for New Blackwattle Equity Income Fund appeared first on AdviserVoice.

Andrew Godfrey

Increased investor demand for predictable income streams at competitive yields has recently seen several listed debt offerings come to the Australian market.

New York US-based alternative investor, Stonepeak, has partnered with Equity Trustees as Note Trustee for its listed infrastructure debt note, the Stonepeak-Plus INFRA1 Note, which is issued by Stonepeak-Plus Infra Debt Limited and listed on the Australian Securities Exchange today under the ticker code ASX:SPPHA.

The Stonepeak listed note aims to provide Australian investors with a fixed term investment with monthly interest payments paid from the proceeds of a diversified portfolio of credit exposures underpinned by Stonepeak’s infrastructure investments. Stonepeak is the world’s largest independent infrastructure and real-assets alternatives manager, with more than US$115 billion in assets under management (AUD$176bn).

Andrew Godfrey, Executive General Manager of Corporate and Superannuation Trustee Services at Equity Trustees, said: “We are pleased to partner with Stonepeak on the launch of this listed note in the Australian market”.

He noted the listing comes as the APRA (Australian Prudential Regulation Authority) phases out hybrid banking notes (‘Additional Tier 1’ capital instruments) by 2032. Offerings such as Stonepeak’s may provide an alternative for income-focused investors seeking uncorrelated returns.

Mr Godfrey added: “Equity Trustees has been appointed as note trustee for four of the listed notes now available on the Australian Securities Exchange, including notes for Challenger, Dominion, MA Financial and now Stonepeak.”

Andrew Robertson, Senior Managing Director and Head of Australia and New Zealand Private Credit at Stonepeak, said: “The Stonepeak-Plus INFRA1 Note aims to provide Australian investors access to regular monthly income generated primarily through a curated portfolio of high-quality infrastructure debt assets. Debt will be sourced predominantly from critical infrastructure assets in the transportation and logistics, energy and energy transition, digital, and social infrastructure sectors in Australia, New Zealand and other markets.”

He added that Stonepeak had already secured over AUD$300 million in cornerstone commitments for the Stonepeak-Plus INFRA1 Note, reaching its target and reflecting strong initial demand.

Mr Robertson noted: “Infrastructure businesses have historically exhibited lower default rates compared to corporate debt, making infrastructure debt an especially powerful portfolio diversification tool for investors due to its stable and predictable nature. However, infrastructure debt has been historically challenging for retail investors to access. Stonepeak aims to solve this by providing the opportunity for a range of investors.”

Andrew Godfrey concluded: “We are proud to support Stonepeak in introducing this new listed structure, which expands investor access to diversified credit opportunities.”

The post Stonepeak partners with Equity Trustees as Note Trustee for fixed income offering appeared first on AdviserVoice.

Andrew Godfrey

Equity Trustees is proud to be partnering with Challenger, as Note Trustee for the first-of-its kind, listed, unsecured investment vehicle, Challenger IM LiFTS 1 Notes (Challenger IM LiFTS).

Challenger IM LiFTS will provide Australian investors with a fixed term investment with monthly interest payments paid from the proceeds of a diversified portfolio of credit exposures managed by Challenger Investment Management (Challenger IM). The underlying portfolio is expected to comprise more than 100 credit exposures across private and public markets.

Andrew Godfrey, Executive General Manager of Corporate and Superannuation Trustee Services at Equity Trustees, said: “We are pleased to partner with Challenger IM on the launch of this pioneering investment structure in the Australian market. As a highly regarded credit manager with deep expertise across credit markets, Challenger IM shares our commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality investment opportunities for Australian investors.”

Victor Rodriguez, Chief Executive, Funds Management at Challenger, said: “The launch is aligned with Challenger’s long-term growth plans and commitment to investment excellence. This is a strategic milestone for Challenger, and we’re thrilled to be working with Equity Trustees to launch this innovative, first-of-its-kind note structure to the Australian market. It builds on our 20 years of experience investing in public and private credit and reflects our commitment to growing our listed retail presence with institutional grade income-focused solutions.”

“With the growing demand for private credit, Challenger IM LiFTS aims to provide access to this asset class via an ASX-listed fixed term debt security.  We were pleased with the overwhelming interest we received during the offer period and closed at the maximum raise amount of $350 million, demonstrating strong market appetite for this product,” he said.

Andrew Godfrey concluded: “As Note Trustee, our role is to ensure the Challenger IM LiFTS operate to the highest standards of governance and compliance. We are proud to support Challenger in introducing this new listed structure, which expands investor access to diversified credit opportunities.”

The post Equity Trustees partners with Challenger, as Note Trustee for launch of Challenger IM LiFTS 1 Notes appeared first on AdviserVoice.

Andrew Godfrey

Equity Trustees is proud to be partnering with Loftus Peak as the Responsible Entity for the Loftus Peak Global Disruption Hedged Active ETF (ASX:LPHD), a currency hedged version of its flagship product, the Loftus Peak Global Disruption Active ETF.

The Loftus Peak Global Disruption Hedged Active ETF, launched on 1 July 2022 as an unlisted fund, is now available with dual access, providing investors with the flexibility to invest via the ASX or unlisted by way of the Fund’s administrator. With underlying investments predominantly denominated in US dollars, the Fund provides a solution to managing foreign currency exposure while maintaining exposure to compelling global growth opportunities.

Andrew Godfrey, Executive General Manager of Corporate and Superannuation Trustee Services at Equity Trustees, said: “We are proud to support the launch of the Loftus Peak Global Disruption Hedged Active ETF on the ASX. The addition of this active ETF broadens the options available to investors, offering share market access to an established global equities strategy.”

Rick Steele, Chief Executive of Loftus Peak said: “Loftus Peak remains at the forefront of investing in businesses that are disrupting traditional industries and capturing market share in the global economy. We are committed to offering investors exposure to high quality companies benefiting from long-term structural trends. Given the underlying investments of the Fund are exposed to foreign currencies, primarily the US dollar, the Loftus Peak Global Disruption Hedged Active ETF provides share market investors a strategic way to achieve a minimised currency risk, while participating in a growth opportunity.” “This launch means we now offer the full suite of product across our global disruption strategy; currency hedged or unhedged and each accessible by way of the ASX or the Fund’s administrator.”

Loftus Peak is a specialist global equities investment manager with over $1.1 billion in funds under management. The firm applies a high-conviction investment strategy with a disruption overlay, targeting companies reshaping industries worldwide. Combining disciplined valuation through a discounted cash flow framework with active risk management, Loftus Peak delivers exposure to quality, large-cap businesses that can benefit from long-term structural trends. The experienced investment team integrates environmental, social and governance considerations into its decision-making, aiming to provide investors with sustainable, long-term value.

Andrew Godfrey concluded: “Our extended partnership with Loftus Peak reflects a shared commitment to providing the Australian market with high-quality, market leading funds, while ensuring operational excellence for investors.”

The post Equity Trustees partners with Loftus Peak to launch the Loftus Peak Global Disruption Hedged Active ETF appeared first on AdviserVoice.

Andrew Godfrey

Equity Trustees has been appointed Responsible Entity for the newly launched T. Rowe Price Global Structured Research Equity Fund in Australia, continuing a long-standing partnership that has seen more than 10 funds established over 18 years.

T. Rowe Price introduced its Global Structured Research Equity Strategy to the Australian market available either as a hedged or an unhedged exposure to offer a differentiated global equities solution. The actively managed strategy harnesses the stock-selection skills of the firm’s renowned global research platform to provide Australian investors with diversified exposure to the core segment of the global equity market.

Leveraging the insights of the T. Rowe Price’s 70 experienced global equity analysts, the strategy aims to offer a low tracking error alternative to passive equity allocations, providing benchmark-like volatility and risk characteristics with the added opportunity for long-term capital appreciation. With a diversified portfolio of 750 to 1,000 stocks, it seeks to consistently perform across different market environments with less exposure to extreme style or sector leadership changes.

Andrew Godfrey, Executive General Manager of Corporate and Superannuation Trustee Services at Equity Trustees, said: “We are proud to support the launch of the T. Rowe Price Global Structured Research Strategy as Responsible Entity in Australia. This is a sophisticated fund structure, and we are pleased to bring our experience and oversight to a global manager that shares our commitment to long-term outcomes for investors.”

Darren Hall, Head of Australia and New Zealand at T. Rowe Price, said: “We value the role that Equity Trustees plays in helping us deliver high-quality, institutionally robust fund structures to the Australian market. Their expertise in administrating complex structures and ensuring governance rigour allows us to focus on what we do best, delivering long-term value through active management.”

The post Equity Trustees partners with T. Rowe Price as Responsible Entity for New T. Rowe Price Global Structured Research Equity Fund in Australia appeared first on AdviserVoice.