The SMSFs trustee-members

With the huge proliferation and increasing popularity of self managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) in Australia, it is time to put the members of these funds under the microscope. Because by law each member must also be a trustee, these individuals show a level of involvement and control over their superannuation that is not necessary (or possible) in members of other types of superannuation fund. This article examines demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the people who establish their own superannuation funds and explores the reasons why they do so, including the perceived advantages of this type of superannuation vehicle. The article also considers the level of knowledge and understanding amongst the SMSF trustee cohort.