The SMSF Experts with Shelley Banton

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 Bryce dive into how these legal pr...

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 regulatory challenges, investment strategies,...

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 over 25 years in the industry, shar...

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 into managing these assets effecti...

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 years of experience in financial servi...

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 over 50 years of expertise in financial...

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 Guidelines

(21:02) Loans and Related Par...

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
(08:38) The Importance of Corporate Trust...

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) - They aren’t scams, they are crimes...