Industry Insights from the 2025 TAG Super and Tax Strategies Day

Superannuation Strategy, Tax Planning, and the Power of Forward Thinking

At Superannuation Audit Services (SAS), staying up to date with the latest legislative, strategic, and tax developments in the SMSF sector is part of how we deliver high-quality, independent audit services across Australia. In July, our team had the pleasure of attending the 2025 TAG Super and Tax Strategies Day—a premier event packed with valuable insights for SMSF professionals, advisers, and trustees alike.

Here's what we learned—and why it matters to your fund....

Division 296: It’s Coming, So Let’s Plan for It

One of the headline discussions was around Division 296, a major policy shift that will apply an additional 15% tax on earnings from superannuation accounts over $3 million, even during pension phase. This tax is personal, like Division 293, but members can elect to have their SMSF cover the liability.

While some are panicking and pulling assets out of super, the message from industry experts is clear: Don’t rush – analysis shows that staying invested in super and planning for increased liquidity is often the better path.

Liquidity & Re-contribution Strategies: Think Ahead

In the face of this tax shift, re-contribution strategies are becoming more important than ever. These strategies can help build fund liquidity, optimise tax outcomes, and ensure members are positioned to manage liabilities without selling down assets under pressure.

Business Transition Planning: More Flexibility, Less Stress

If you or your clients are small business owners, early planning for business transitions—especially around retirement—can offer significantly more flexibility and control. Waiting until the last minute can limit options, impact tax outcomes, and reduce peace of mind during one of life’s biggest changes.

Visit Your Financial Planner… Early

One consistent takeaway? Start your retirement planning well before you retire.

Engaging a trusted financial planner early allows time for strategic modelling, avoids rushed decisions, and ensures a more relaxed, confident retirement journey. Whether it’s understanding your contributions, managing drawdowns, or preparing for legislative changes, early advice is key.

Market Valuations: Accuracy is No Longer Optional

Timely, reliable market valuations are now a non-negotiable for all SMSFs. As tax and compliance frameworks become more complex, inaccurate or delayed valuations could lead to serious compliance issues—and significant financial consequences. Trustees and advisers must prioritise obtaining quality, independent valuations on an annual basis.

Wealth Transfer & Estate Planning: Act Early, Talk Openly

The great intergenerational wealth transfer is underway—and it’s bringing with it a storm of tax, legal, and strategic challenges. Engaging with experienced, specialist advisers early is the only way to navigate these changes with clarity and confidence.

Equally important is having open discussions around future incapacity and death procedures. Planning now ensures your wishes are followed and spares your loved ones additional financial or legal stress at an already difficult time.

In Summary: Expertise, Early Planning & Trusted Guidance Matter More Than Ever

The 2025 TAG Super and Tax Strategies Day confirmed what we already believe at SAS:

• The best outcomes come from early, informed decision-making.

• Legislation is evolving—rapidly—and SMSFs must adapt in kind.

• High-quality advice, from trusted professionals, is an absolute must.

At Superannuation Audit Services, we work closely with accountants, financial planners, and SMSF trustees to ensure audit compliance is smooth, stress-free, and aligned with best practice. With extensive experience in SMSF auditing and a deep understanding of current industry trends, our team is ready to support you in 2025 and beyond.

📞 Get in touch today to discuss how we can help your SMSF stay compliant and confident in a changing landscape.

Book a FREE consultation with our team of dedicated SMSF auditors today.

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