The 2024 CEO Award was posthumously awarded to Brooke Hepburn-Rogers while Leigh Mansell was awarded the prestigious Chair Award.

Michael Lorimer was recognised for achieving the highest examination score in 2024 for the Association’s SMSF Specialist Advisor accreditation program, while Ryan Ding was recognised for achieving the highest examination score for the Association’s SMSF Specialist Auditor accreditation program.

Association CEO Peter Burgess said the awards were richly deserved, with all award winners embodying the Association’s values as well as showcasing a high level of professionalism.

“Our Specialist Advisor and Specialist Auditor designations are highly regarded across the industry, not just as a test of knowledge but as a demonstration of deep SMSF expertise and the ability to apply that knowledge in practice.

“Those members who have undertaken the comprehensive Specialist Adviser and Specialist Auditor programs understand that earning these designations requires a commitment to professional development, technical proficiency and the highest standards of SMSF practice.

Burgess said the CEO Award was conferred on a member who had made a significant contribution to foster the SMSF community and embodied the values of the Association.

“No one better fits that description than Brooke, the Founder and Director of the ACT-based Foxton Financial, who had more than 22 years’ experience in the sector, was Chair of the ACT Local Community Committee from March 2020 to July 2023, and always a strong advocate of our Association.

“Sadly, Brooke passed away last year, so this Award is a poignant reminder and tribute to her unwavering support and dedication to the sector over many years.”

Association chair Scott Hay-Bartlem said Heffron Director, SMSF Technical & Education Services, Leigh Mansell, has been a highly influential figure in the SMSF sector for over two decades and was a worthy recipient of this year’s Chair Award.

“This award recognises a member who has made an outstanding contribution to the growth and sustainability of the SMSF sector, and no one better symbolises this description than Leigh who has been a major contributor via her exceptional education skills.

“In addition to her contributions to education, Leigh’s leadership and insights during the 2024 Treasury legacy pension amnesty consultations were instrumental. Her influence played a key role in shaping a legislative outcome that will benefit many SMSF members.”

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The new appointments replace retiring directors, Liam Shorte, Dr Deborah Ralston and Bryan Ashenden.

SMSF Association Chair, Scott Hay-Bartlem, said: “Brett, Meg and Lachlan each bring unique perspectives from their many years in the industry, making them invaluable additions. We are delighted to have their industry knowledge and experience on the board as we strive to represent the industry and enhance the quality of SMSF advice.

Heffron, is an SMSF Association Fellow, SMSF Specialist Adviser, and Managing Director of Heffron Consulting with over two decades of experience in SMSFs.

A passionate advocate for education within the SMSF community, Heffron has been an active member of the SMSF Association for over 20 years, regularly speaking at the Association’s National Conference and professional development events.

Her long-standing commitment to the industry has been recognised, receiving the Association’s Chair Award in 2010 and the CEO Award in 2020.

Heffron said: “It’s a pleasure to join the Board of an organisation I have been involved with for many years, specifically contributing at a leadership level for the success and growth of the sector.”

Griffiths contributes over 25 years of experience spanning legislative compliance, retirement income streams and estate planning. He has worked for one of the largest superannuation consulting firms in Queensland and is currently a Director of Superannuation Advisory at Vincents.

Griffiths added: “I have always greatly valued the Association’s role in the superannuation and broader financial advisory sector, and I look forward to utilising my knowledge and contributing to the Association’s continued success.”

Sue’s diverse background in financial planning and taxation includes his current role as Partner and General Manager at Matrix Norwest. His technical expertise in SMSFs, coupled with a strong business acumen, means he is well positioned to contribute to the Association’s strategic direction.

Sue said: “I feel privileged at the opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to the Board and its mission of empowering Australians to manage their own superannuation. I’m particularly eager to highlight the importance of engaging with a younger demographic and ensuring the industry continues to evolve.”

Hay-Bartlem says: “The Association would like to thank the retiring Directors for their invaluable contributions to the Board. Their experience and dedication have greatly supported the growth and success of the Association.”

“In particular, I would like to thank and acknowledge Dr Deborah Ralston for her enormous contribution to the Association, which spanned two stints as director and one as Board chair. With over 25 years of board-level experience including roles on the Future Fund Board of Guardians and the RBA Payments System Board, her leadership has been invaluable. We are grateful for her lasting impact on both the Association and the financial services industry.”

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Peter Burgess

The more than 350 SMSF professionals who attended the two-day SMSF Association Technical Summit in Sydney this week went away armed with comprehensive strategies and enhanced industry knowledge to take back to their clients.

The Summit, which brought together recognised industry leaders to address delegates in keynote and technical sessions as well as practical workshops, again demonstrated why it is one of the premier technical events on the SMSF calendar.

SMSF Association CEO Peter Burgess said the strong numbers, in person and online, were a testimony to the importance SMSF specialists placed on maintaining the highest industry standards.

“Considering our superannuation sector is riddled with complex law, active regulators, shifting legislative changes and trustees with unmet advice needs, there is a tremendous opportunity for firms with specialised knowledge to make a difference – and this Summit is integral to this.

“It’s why all sessions and workshops were highly technical and targeted to engage SMSF specialists with a thirst to be the best. Attendees were highly engaged, with the many questions asked indicative that even the most experienced SMSF professionals had more to learn.

“Whether it was Professor Melinda Edwards, Managing Director at Ethics Advisory Services, addressing the future impact of AI in financial services or Shelley Banton, the Head of Education at ASF Audits, on the intricacies of accurately valuing SMSF assets, delegates accessed the best thinking on such issues in a thought-provoking way that can only add value to their businesses.”

Burgess said it was extremely heartening to hear Investment Trends Head of Research Irene Guiamatsia inform attendees how SMSF specialists – defined as a practice with more than 20 SMSF clients – had increased their profitability over the past year.

“Investment Trends’ research demonstrated that specialists had gained from increasing their initial upfront fees to clients and not using them as a loss leader to be recouped later.

“She said that on a net basis all SMSF advisers seemed to have seen more of a revenue increase than decrease, but it was much more positive for SMSF specialists.

“This evidence from a respected research house goes to the core of the Association’s argument that SMSF specialisation reaps commercial and professional benefits.”

Burgess said other sessions that captured the delegates’ attention were the workshop presented by Craig Day (Head of Technical Services, Colonial First State) and Linda Bruce (Senior Technical Manager, Colonial First State) who examined planning and managing personal injury, temporary or permanent, when the unexpected happened.

“Jemma Sanderson (Director, Cooper Partners Financial Services) focused on live cases to understand how best to manage the smooth wealth management and succession planning within blended families.”

The Summit concluded with Cooper Grace Ward partner and SMSF Association chair, Scott Hay-Bartlem, presenting a captivating session on what SMSF professionals should be doing during the death benefit planning stage to manage conflicts and ensure nominated beneficiaries receive their intended benefits in the most tax effective manner

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Peter Burgess

The SMSF Association 2024 Technical Summit, a premier technical event on the SMSF calendar, will focus on enhancing and improving the expertise of professionals dedicated to delivering high-quality retirement solutions to their clients.

The Summit, being held on 24-25 July at Sydney’s Hyatt Regency, features a curated program of interactive workshops and sessions on a range of technical issues critical to SMSF specialists.

SMSF Association CEO Peter Burgess emphasised the importance of bringing the industry together to explore strategies and share knowledge that upholds the highest standard in our industry. “The Technical Summit is an essential event for SMSF professionals committed to providing quality advice and staying at the forefront of industry developments.

“This year’s event promises to deliver an unparalleled lineup of workshops designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of professionals across the financial planning, accounting, legal, and auditing sectors.”

Managing Director at Ethics Advisory Services, Professor Melinda Edwards, will bring a thought-provoking perspective to the Summit with her workshop on ethical dilemmas and the future impact of AI in financial services.

Head of Education at ASF Audits, Shelley Banton’s workshop will help guide professionals through the intricacies of accurately valuing SMSF assets and Tim Miller, SMSF Technical & Education Manager at Smarter SMSF, is set to deliver an interactive workshop testing long standing contribution strategies in a post Div 296 environment.

In a joint workshop, Craig Day, Head of Technical Services, Colonial First State, and Linda Bruce, Senior Technical Manager, Colonial First State will take a holistic look at the minefield of superannuation issues that need to be understood when protecting clients from the risks associated with becoming permanently incapacitated.

Director, Cooper Partners Financial Services, Jemma Sanderson’s workshop will delve into the complexities of handling SMSFs within blended families and Leigh Mansell, Director SMSF Technical & Education Services, Heffron, is set to deliver a comprehensive workshop, focused on managing SMSF death benefits.

In addition to these workshops, we have assembled an expert lineup of speakers, all of whom are industry leaders and need no introduction. Renowned speakers such as Bryce Figot, Special Counsel, DBA Lawyers, Louise Biti, Director, Aged Care Steps, Melanie Dunn, Principal, Accurium and many more will impart their wealth of knowledge on attendees, whether they join virtually or attend the Summit, in person.

This year’s Technical Summit will also be top and tail-ended by keynotes from two of our most popular presenters.  Peter Burgess will kick off with his fast paced update on the latest legislative changes, sharing first hand insights on the SMSF Association’s Division 296 advocacy efforts, Whilst, Scott Hay-Bartlem, Partner, Cooper Grace Ward, is set to deliver the closing keynote with his signature flair,  addressing  strategies to resolve  death benefit disputes.

Burgess concludes: “This year’s Summit promises to be a dynamic and invaluable event for SMSF professionals, offering a unique opportunity to stay ahead of legislative changes, enhance technical expertise and network with industry peers.”

Significant savings are still available, with Early Bird pricing ending this Friday 23 June. Don’t miss the opportunity to buy at this great rate, connect with industry leaders and gain insights from a wide range of industry experts this July.

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Hay-Bartlem, who joined the Board in July 2019, said he was honoured to be asked to remain in the role, especially at a challenging time for the SMSF sector.

“We are still negotiating with all interested parties over the Government’s proposed new tax on SMSF balances exceeding $3 million as well as contributing to the ongoing debate on the legislation emanating from the Quality of Advice Review,” he says.

Addressing delegates at the opening of the SMSF Association’s National Conference in Brisbane yesterday, Hay-Bartlem said this premier event on the SMSF calendar would again offer high quality and relevant technical content and the opportunity to network at the numerous social events.

“I wish to welcome everyone to my home town. Your attendance here reflects an obvious commitment to your professional development over the next few days.

“Quite simply the ongoing success of our National Conference is due to our members, their dedication to professionalism and a sense of community within the industry that is second to none.

“As an Association, we will continually work to promote the professionalism and integrity of the sector, while staying actively involved in discussions with Government, stakeholders, regulators and policy makers.”

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She brings a wealth of experience in marketing, fundraising, consumer research and customer service in the commercial, not-for-profit and public sectors to the Board.

Franks is also Chair/CEO & Founder of Women in Aid & Development, Director of Gateway Bank, a member of Peridot Directors and convenor of the Sydney Chairs Circle. In 2020, she was awarded the Member of Order of Australia for her significant service to the community through social welfare initiatives.

SMSF Association Chair, Scott Hay-Bartlem, says: “We are thrilled to have someone with Christine’s varied experiences join the Board. She will be an invaluable addition, particularly with her breadth of knowledge gained from various board appointments and experience in governance, marketing, and consumer research.

“The Association and the superannuation sector are constantly evolving and adjusting to legislative changes, so to have someone that can be a positive voice in these conversations at all levels, as well as for our members, better positions us to make the correct strategic decisions for the SMSF sector.

Franks will replace Robyn FitzRoy who retired from the Board on 23 November.

Hay-Bartlem says: “The Association is indebted to Robyn who has generously given her time and effort for the six years she has been on the Board, and we thank her for her invaluable contribution.”

Franks says: “It’s a pleasure and privilege to be asked to join the Board, and I look forward to participating in the strategic conversations about how to grow both the Association and our superannuation sector in the coming years and achieve better outcomes for our members.”

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Mary Simmons

With all the conversations taking place around proposed changes to tax structures and the advancements in practice strategies, the SMSF sector is energised. It’s this bristling vibrancy that the SMSF Association is looking to ignite in its attendees at their 2024 National Conference, being held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from 21-23 February.

This year’s event will encourage all those working in the sector to embrace these professional opportunities and find new ways to Level Up. This overarching theme will be incorporated across the two and a half days, in technical sessions and workshops designed to elevate specialist superannuation advice and demonstrate how delegates can grow and excel professionally.

SMSF Association’s Head of Technical, Mary Simmons says: “The sector is constantly changing, as evidenced with the possibility of new tax on superannuation earnings exceeding $3 million, we need to ensure collectively that we are always learning to remain at the peak of our abilities, and at the forefront of the industry, so we are best equipped for these new conversations.”

“The SMSF Association’s national conferences have a long history of delivering high quality technical content and bringing together the brightest minds in the SMSF sector.”

“The networking opportunities and ability to share ideas and knowledge among industry peers adds significantly to the depth of learning and professional development.”

“Whether you’re advising clients just starting out in their working careers, clients closer to retirement or who have retired, the program delivers strategies for optimising superannuation contributions and planning for a secure retirement.”

As the new tax on super balances above $3 million becomes an inevitable reality, the Association’s national conference emerges as an essential platform to unravel the intricate details and the impact on the superannuation industry.

“In addition to Meg Heffron’s plenary address on how to address the “doom and gloom” narrative, we have a dedicated workshop to unpack the detail, and using case studies to focus on the nuances of the new tax landscape and how it interacts with elements such as the client’s total super balance and their transfer balance cap.”

“Addressing the needs of high-net-worth individuals, the program features sessions which provide detailed modelling and actionable insights about opportunities and a workshop on wealth management strategies to explore how alternative investment structures can seamlessly complement SMSFs”, Simmons says.

SMSF Association Chair, Scott Hay-Bartlem, will close out the conference with a keynote address on the ramifications that this new tax could have on beneficiaries and estate planning.

We’ve also planned sessions to address the critical need for contingency planning – from navigating the initial death of a member, valid enduring powers of attorney to exercising trustee discretion responsibly and how best to manage rogue trustees.

Given the prominence of direct property holdings in SMSFs, the conference program also offers a range of sessions to explore different ways to structure property ownership, as well as insights into handling complex situations ranging from related party transactions to managing Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangements (LRBAs) in a rising interest rate environment.

“We also have a compelling series of practice management sessions designed to boost business acumen and operational effectiveness.”

“Sessions will explore the future of the industry with a focus on generational shifts and disruptive technologies including the transformative role of artificial intelligence.

The opening morning of the conference will feature a thought leadership breakfast hosted by Class on the topic of “Holding up the mirror – what the SMSF sector does well and where it needs to level up” followed by the traditional legislative update keynote address by Association CEO Peter Burgess.

Early bird registrations are now open. Following the overwhelming success and popularity of the workshops at previous national conferences, bookings for these are open and we expect the workshops at next year’s conference to reach capacity, so we encourage delegates to register early.

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Louise Biti

Specialist workshops will be a core focus at the upcoming 2023 annual SMSF Association Technical Summit, being held on July 26-27 on the Gold Coast.

SMSF Association CEO Peter Burgess says: “The outstanding success of last year’s event demonstrated the strong attraction that a combination of technical workshops, and engagement with industry experts presents for our specialist members.”

The 2023 workshop sessions are certain to have broad appeal with speakers including, DBA Lawyers’ Bryce Figot focussing on the tips and traps of the Total Super Balance and Transfer Balance Cap regimes, and Colonial First State’s Craig Day presenting his take on the latest in contribution strategies.

In other workshop sessions, Accurium’s Mark Ellem will dive into a series of case studies designed to explore the technical issues that can arise during the preparation of annual financial statements, while Aged Care Steps’ Louise Biti will look at aged care and housing affordability solutions.

In his keynote address opening the Summit, Burgess will provide expert analysis and critical review of Treasury consultation papers (including the proposed $3 million cap), ATO rulings, enacted law and draft legislation impacting on the SMSF sector and the broader super industry.

Heffron Consulting Meg Heffron’s keynote address in the morning on day one, looks at the $3 million cap, with Heffron adding: “Although not all SMSF clients will be subject to the new tax on earnings for balances over $3 million, it is clearly a major issue for our industry. 

“I will explore some of the new challenges and decisions for impacted clients, advisers and accountants whilst also discussing what this means for the future place of SMSFs in our superannuation landscape.”

The Chair of the SMSF Association, Scott Hay-Bartlem from Cooper Grace Ward will wrap up the 2023 Technical Summit with a high energy estate planning update, sharing his predictions on future litigation ‘hot spots’, as well as previewing how the proposed $3 million cap is expected to impact on future estate planning strategies.

Burgess concludes: “It all adds up to an exciting and professionally fulfilling event. The Technical Summit always presents an advanced agenda to elevate the skills of those operating at the highest level in the SMSF sector, and this year is no different. 

“The bonus alongside the several industry leaders we have presenting will be a gala dinner to celebrate the Association’s 20^th anniversary on the Wednesday night.” 

With six technical workshops on the program to ensure high quality discussions, seats at this year’s Technical Summit will be limited, so delegates are encouraged to register early.

Register for the Summit. 

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Peter Burgess

Peter Burgess, the SMSF Association Deputy CEO and Director of Policy & Education, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, effective March 2023.

Burgess will succeed John Maroney who has been CEO since May 2017. Maroney has decided to step down and take some time off to explore future opportunities.

SMSF Association Chairman Scott Hay-Bartlem says: “We are extremely fortunate to have someone of Peter’s calibre to succeed John. His knowledge of the sector is legendary, with his annual ‘legs and regs’ address to the National Conference always compulsory listening.

“I am certain the members will welcome Peter’s appointment as someone who is totally committed to the SMSF sector and very understanding of the issues they face in running their businesses.”

“Since John’s appointment in 2017, he has had the onerous responsibility of guiding the Association and its members through exciting and challenging times, particularly the dynamic regulatory environment and handling the enormous impact of the COVID pandemic.

“I know I speak for the Board and all members when I say John has performed admirably in very difficult circumstances, and that the strong position in which we find ourselves, is, in no small part, due to his leadership.”

Maroney says: “As the Association approaches its 20-year anniversary in 2023, it remains recognised as the pre-eminent organisation in the SMSF sector by government, policymakers, regulators, educators, and the industry. We have also been a driving force in building collaboration across the financial sector.

“Having weathered the COVID storm and returned to hosting large, physical events, including the National Conference in April and Technical Summit this week, 2023 is the ideal time to hand over to Peter for the next growth phase of the sector and Association.”

Burgess brings more than 20 years of industry experience to the position, including three years as the Association’s Technical Director before joining the SMSF administrator SuperConcepts in 2013 as General Manager, Technical Services & Education. He is widely recognised as an authority in SMSF technical matters and Government policy design.

Burgess says: “I am thrilled to be offered the position of CEO of the pre-eminent body in the SMSF sector. I am passionate about the SMSF Association, and the work we do to uphold the integrity and sustainability of the SMSF sector.

But most of all I am passionate about our members and helping them to provide the best SMSF advice they can. They are rightfully considered experts in this field and ensuring they have all the necessary skills and education to remain the elite advisers will be my priority. I look forward to working with the Board and members to achieve this outcome.”

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John Maroney

SMSF Association CEO John Maroney and Association Chair Scott Hay-Bartlem warmly welcomed a strong delegation of over 950 multidisciplinary SMSF professionals from across the country at the opening of the 18th Annual National Conference this morning, demonstrating the appetite for collaboration and education in the SMSF sector.

The National Conference presents two and a half days of premium technical education starting this morning with a stimulating Thought Leadership Breakfast, presented by Act2 Solutions, focussed on technology in the SMSF sector, and a bustling SMSF exhibition showcasing the latest products and services in the sector.

In response to the strong turnout this year, Mr Maroney said that, after two years of restricted events, there is a clear appetite for SMSF professionals to get together and update themselves on how the SMSF sector has evolved.

“The energy at the National Conference has already been incredible, you can feel the appetite for in-person events and the excitement it brings following the relaxation of travel and event restrictions,” he said.

“We’re diving right into the educational program this morning with a focus on movements in the regulatory landscape with Deputy CEO / Director of Policy & Education, Peter Burgess. This year’s technical program will once again kick off with this high-level, rapid-fire SMSF legislation stocktake session.”

“The SMSF sector has continued to grow strongly, and, from a legislation perspective, it’s been one of the busiest years on record. The scope and impact of these changes on client strategies is considerable, such as the new SuperStream rules, the introduction of Director Identification Numbers, and some of the regulatory changes to residency rules and the work test.”

SMSF Association Director, Bryan Ashenden, will also explore significant changes in the regulatory landscape for the provision of financial advice and related services that are currently under examination by the Australian Law Reform Commission and Treasury’s Quality Advice Review post the Royal Commission.

Mr Hay-Bartlem said that the conference has drawn in professionals from all over the country, acting as an example of how major events can be reintroduced slowly, as Australia returns to business as usual.

“I am thrilled to be the Association’s new Chair and to welcome so many of our members to Adelaide. What we have delivered is a program focused on bringing our members up to speed on technical and regulatory developments in the SMSF space, delivered by some of the very best in the sector,” said Mr Hay-Bartlem.

“The SMSF sector depends heavily on the advice from SMSF specialists and we are here to support you every step of the way,” he said.

Both Senator Jane Hume, Minister for Superannuation, Financial Services, and the Digital Economy and Dr Jim Chalmers, Shadow Treasurer, provided video addresses to the conference, a sign of the growing importance of SMSFs as a retirement vehicle and policymaker interest in supporting the sector.

“I’m pleased to be speaking with you at the SMSF Association National Conference, an event that continues to increase in size and stature as more Aussies take their future into their own hands. The SMSF Sector is a great strength of the Australian retirement system and it’s only getting better,” Senator Jane Hume said.

“One quarter of all super assets are now in self-managed funds and the traditional demographics of SMSFs are changing – more women and younger people.”

“With the changing landscape of the sector, regulatory settings need to be targeted and effective without the burden of red tape. The Morrison Government is a great ally of the SMSF sector,” she said.

Dr Chalmers commented: “I’m really proud of my long association with you all the way back to when Andrea Slattery was running the organisation and through more recent consultations and conversations. I want to thank you for your advocacy, availability and for the opportunity to confer with you from time to time.”

“I know that Stephen Jones and the rest of the economics team and indeed the whole Shadow Cabinet and Parliamentary Party are grateful for the work that you do,” he added.

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