Financial planning: With all the new tax changes, is it time to start an SMSF?

Opinion May 31, 2026 — 5:08am Following the budget changes, it seems pretty clear to me that super is where I need to focus my attention in terms of getting financially secure. I’m a bit of a control freak, so an SMSF appeals to me. But I’m fearful of the cost, and perhaps the work involved. What am I in for if I go down this path?

Financial planning: With all the new tax changes, is it time to start an SMSF?. Opinion May 31, 2026 — 5:08am Following the budget changes, it seems pretty clear to me that super is where I need to focus my attention in terms of getting financially secure. I’m a bit of a control freak, so an SMSF appeals to me. But I’m fearful of the cost, and perhaps the work involved. What am I in for if I go down this path? Super still has the preservation rules that mean you can’t access it until at least 60 (other than the First Home Super Saver scheme), so it’s not the right solution in all circumstances. But you are right to identify that the tax generosity afforded to super really stands out following the CGT, negative gearing and family trust changes. Checking on your SMSF every day won’t make it go up, and is actually likely to result in sub-par...