Episode 96 - What's ahead for SMSFs in 2026

Описание: Welcome to Episode 96 of the Feeling Smarter video series. In this first edition for 2026, co-hosts Aaron Dunn and Tim Miller take a deep dive into the evolving landscape of SMSFs and what's ahead for 2026.

As we lean into what is expected to be a busy year for superannuation, Aaron and Tim move beyond "crystal balling" to analyse the tangible legislative shifts and regulatory focuses that will likely define the year ahead.

In this episode, we discuss:
The Labor Party Narrative: A look at the historical context of Labor’s superannuation policy and the current trajectory of their second term.

Division 296 Updates: Discuss the release of the Treasury's exposure draft and explanatory memorandum just before Christmas 2025 and the proposed changes set for July 1, 2026.

Access and Compliance: Discussions on the tightening of rules around "illegal early access," financial abuse (including within SMSF trusteeships), and the potential for amending the definition of Australian super funds to address outstanding concerns for SMSF members overseas.

Compassionate Grounds Scrutiny: How the use of super for medical, dental, and cosmetic procedures is being viewed by regulators.

The CSLR and New Levies: The possibility of SMSF trustees facing further levies to help fund compensation schemes.

Cap Indexation: Predictions on indexation moving the contribution caps, along with the Transfer Balance Cap.

Regulatory Focus: The ATO’s upcoming priorities, including "Payday Super," education directions, and maintaining system robustness.

It appears as we look ahead to July 1, 2026, it is going to be one of the busiest periods for practitioners, with the simultaneous introduction of Payday Super, Division 296 tax changes, and new AML/counter-terrorism requirements.