Specialising in SMSFs

Key Points

  • A new opportunity for SMSF specialists was announced at the Institute’s National SMSF Conference, available exclusively for Chartered Accountants
  • The specialisation gives members the opportunity to demonstrate to clients their dedicated knowledge and abilities
  • There are two different pathways to completing the educational component, both of which will run through the University of NSW, based on the amount of experience you have.

An exciting new opportunity is available exclusively for Chartered Accountants who specialise in self-managed super funds (SMSF) to be publicly recognised for their skills.

The Institute launched its new SMSF specialisation qualification at our National SMSF Conference on 19 September. The qualification gives members the opportunity to demonstrate to clients their dedicated knowledge and abilities.

The Institute’s Head of Superannuation, Liz Westover, said the new program is an exciting opportunity for members to build on their existing learning and be publicly recognised for their experience in SMSFs.

'With more and more Australians opting for SMSFs as their retirement savings vehicle of choice, a formal, Institute-recognised specialisation is a valuable qualification for Chartered Accountants to demonstrate to clients their own skills and experience,' Ms Westover said.

There are two different pathways to completing the program, both of which will run through the University of NSW:

  • Pathway One, which requires post-graduate studies through the University of NSW (UNSW). This is available for members with at least two years of practical experience
  • Pathway Two, which offers a workshop and assessment education component. The workshop will be available through the UNSW both as a face-face workshop and via distance learning. This will be available for members with at least four years of practical experience.

For more information or to register an expression of interest, members can visit the SMSF specialisation website.

National SMSF Conference

The launch of the SMSF specialisation was just one feature of the annual two-day National SMSF conference that took place in Melbourne on 19 and 20 September. More highlights from the conference are available on the website and in Ms Westover’s blog.

Article last updated 23 December 2011