The SMSF Experts with Shelley Banton

In this episode of the SMSF Experts Podcast, Shelley chats with Sean Johnson, SMSF specialist at Heffron, to tackle one of the industry's most pressing challenges: how to process underpaid pensions through SMSF software following the ATO's June 2024 changes to TR 2013/5. With software companies unable to update their systems for the new rules, Sean reveals a three-step processing solution that SMS...

In this episode of the SMSF Experts Podcast, Shelley chats with Sharlene Anderson, Director of Veritas Forensics and registered company auditor, to expose the uncomfortable truth about SMSF fraud. From Melissa Caddick's doctored CommSec statements to Trio Capital's sophisticated $180 million heist, Sharlene reveals why the real problem isn't how clever fraudsters are—it's how trusting Australians...

In this episode of the SMSF Experts Podcast, Shelley chats with Andy Forbes, CTO at SuperConcepts, to demystify the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the SMSF industry. They discuss the impact of AI on jobs, its capability to automate mundane tasks, and the potential to revolutionise SMSF administration. Andy also shares insights into the technical aspects of AI, security measures to safegua...

In this episode of the SMSF Experts Podcast , Shelley breaks down the often-overlooked issue of underpaying a pension in self-managed super funds. While it may seem minor, failing to meet pension payment requirements can lead to serious compliance and financial consequences. To help unpack this complex topic, Shelley is joined by Peter Crump, Senior Consultant in Private Wealth at BDO Adelaide. Wi...

In this episode of THE SMSF Experts, Shelley is joined by Bryce Figot, special counsel at DBA Lawyers, to discuss the significant impact of case law on SMSF trustees and compliance obligations. With over 21 years of experience in tax and superannuation, Bryce shares insights on landmark cases like Hill v. Zuda, Katz v. Grossman, and the consequences for SMSF professionals and auditors. Shelley and...

In this episode of the SMSF Experts , Shelley sits down with Caroline Bowler, CEO of BTC Markets, to explore the controversial yet fascinating role of cryptocurrency in SMSFs. With over 17 years of experience in financial services and a deep expertise in blockchain and digital assets, Caroline shares valuable insights on whether crypto qualifies as a complying SMSF asset. They delve into regulator...

In this first episode of the new 2025 series, Shelley delves into the critical issue of elder protection within SMSFs. With alarming statistics from the AIFS National Elder Abuse Study revealing significant incidents of elder and financial abuse, the episode highlights the urgency of safeguarding elder SMSF members. Special guest Louise Biti, Director of Aged Care Steps and a seasoned expert with...

In this episode, we explore the ins and outs of in-house assets within self-managed super funds. Lyn Formica, Head of Education and Content at Heffron SMSF Solutions, joins Shelley to explain the regulations, benefits, and risks involved in helping SMSF trustees make informed decisions. With over 30 years of experience providing technical advice to SMSF professionals, Lynn offers valuable insights...

In today's episode of The SMSF Experts, we’re looking into the essential strategies and insights needed to manage a successful Self-Managed Super Fund. From foundational principles to advanced techniques for tax efficiency and investment diversification, we cover key areas that can make a big impact on your SMSF journey. Joining us is Liam Short, Managing Director of Sonas Wealth. With over 30 yea...

In this episode, we’re deep-diving into the 2024 Annual Benchmark Report from Class Super. The report provides a comprehensive look at the SMSF landscape, highlighting what's working, where improvements are needed, and offering actionable insights for the future. Joining Shelley are two industry heavyweights: Tim Steele, CEO of Class, and Kate Anderson, General Manager of Operations, who bring ove...

In today’s episode, we’re unpacking the arm’s length rules and examining their significance in the SMSF world and their effect on compliance. Joining us to provide expert guidance is Mary Simmons, Head of Technical at the SMSF Association. (02:56) Understanding Arm's Length Rules (03:24) Section 109 Explained (08:38) Real Bargaining and Arm's Length Transactions (11:00) Practical Examples and ATO...

In Episode 17 of The SMSF Experts, Shelley is joined by Clinton Jackson, a partner at Cooper Grace Ward Lawyers, to discuss the complexities of trust deeds in SMSFs. Shelley and Clinton discuss the importance of having a tailored and flexible trust deed and share practical tips and strategies for ensuring the trust deed is up to date. (03:49) Understanding Trust Deeds: The Good, Bad, and Ugly (08:...

In episode 16 of The SMSF Experts, Shelley is joined by Fraser Jack, founder of the Cyber Collective, as they explore the growing threat of cybercrime targeting the SMSF industry. Shelley and Fraser discuss the alarming techniques cyber criminals use, such as deception, harassment, and hacking, and the importance of protecting client data.   (03:53) - How do you stay in front of Cybercrime? (05:39...

In episode 15 of The SMSF Experts, we tackle the latest development in superannuation: the new $3 million super tax. Although this measure is not law yet, it has already sent shockwaves through the SMSF industry for two major reasons: the tax will be applied to both realised and unrealised gains, and it must be paid personally by the member. To help us understand the implications of this change, w...

Episode 14 of SMSF Experts explores ethics within the SMSF industry. We dissect the implications of moral awareness that can lead to self-interest and provide practical strategies for ethical decision-making faced by SMSF professionals. Join us as Nidal Danoun, Principal Director of Prosperity Financial Services, offers his expert insights into ethical thinking. Follow Shelley: Linkedin For more e...

In this episode of The SMSF Experts, we explore what real business property is. Understanding what qualifies as business real property is crucial because it is one of the exceptions to the in-house asset and related party acquisition rules. Helping Shelley work through the business real property maze is Craig Day, head of technical services from Colonial First State. Follow Shelley: Linkedin For m...

In this episode of SMSF Experts, we delve into unlocking SMSF benefits amidst increased scrutiny from the ATO regarding illegal early releases. Shelley is joined by Liz Westover, a partner and national SMSF leader at Deloitte, to shed light on the dos and don'ts of meeting the conditions of release for accessing funds in an SMSF. Follow Shelley: Linkedin For more episodes and to sign up for the AS...

Episode 11 of the SMSF Experts discusses the limited circumstances under which an SMSF is permitted to borrow. The episode explores the complexities in determining what constitutes a borrowing, particularly in the absence of a definition in the SIS legislation. Aaron Dunn, the CEO and co-founder of Smarter SMSF, joins the program to provide insights into the technical and practical aspects of borr...

In this episode of The SMSF Experts, Shelley and Jemma Sanderson, Director of Cooper Partners Financial Services, shed light on the rules and challenges surrounding related party transactions in SMSFs. They discuss who is a related party, how to invest in related parties and partnerships, and the common compliance pitfalls to avoid. This is a must-listen episode for SMSF professionals who want to...

In this episode, we delve into the ever-evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence and its profound influence on SMSFs. As AI continues to advance, it's crucial to grasp how SMSF management and its potential impact on performance are set to transform. Joining us in this episode is Jeevan Tokhi, the Head of Product at BGL Corporate Solutions, overseeing Simple Fund 360, Simple Invest 360, and Sm...

Shelley invites National Partner, Superannuation & SMSF at Carbon Group Poonam Di Iorio onto the podcast to discuss the challenges of running a successful SMSF Administration firm. Follow Shelley: Linkedin For more episodes and to sign up for the ASF Audits newsletter, please visit asfaudits.com.au

We know that family would never argue about a deceased member's super balance, but the sad reality is that case law is littered with those who have. Unfortunately, it can divide the family in half all because mum or dad's intentions weren't clearly articulated. On this episode of the SMSF Experts, we talk to the SMSF guru of estate planning, Scott Hay-Bartlem, to discuss how the quality of a fund'...

Shelley teams up with Peter Burgess, the CEO of the SMSF Association, for an in-depth exploration of the recent developments in the SMSF industry. They delve into the latest releases from the ATO and decipher their practical implications. Follow Shelley: Linkedin For more episodes and to sign up for the ASF Audits newsletter, please visit asfaudits.com.au

There are a lot of ways to maximise super contributions. In Episode 5 of The SMSF Experts, Shelley is joined by Tim Miller, the Technical and Education Manager at Smarter SMSF, to discuss strategies and super contributions rules to help avoid paying additional tax. Follow Shelley: Linkedin For more episodes and to sign up for the ASF Audits newsletter, please visit asfaudits.com.au

Pension practicalities are an SMSF minefield. Whilst there are specific rules that apply to pensions, SIS remains silent on some areas meaning it can be open to interpretation. In today’s episode, Meg Heffron, Managing Director of Heffron SMSF Solutions, joins Shelley to make sense of it all. Follow Shelley: Linkedin For more episodes and to sign up for the ASF Audits newsletter, please visit asfa...