SMSFs on the Rise: Key Insights from the ATO March 2025 Report
- Superannuation Audit Services
- Jun 12
- 3 min read
What Australia’s Latest SMSF Trends Mean for Accounting Practices
As trusted SMSF auditors, we at Superannuation Audit Services work closely with accounting firms across Australia to deliver compliant, accurate, and timely audits.
Staying informed of sector-wide trends helps accountants advise clients with confidence—and the ATO’s March 2025 SMSF quarterly statistical report offers valuable insights to do just that.
SMSF Sector Growth at a Glance
Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) continue to show consistent growth, driven by client demand for greater investment control and long-term tax efficiency.
Key highlights from the March 2025 quarter:
646,168 total SMSFs – a 5% increase year-on-year
30,531 new SMSFs established between July 2024 and March 2025
$1.01 trillion in total SMSF assets
1,197,293 members, reflecting ongoing trust in SMSFs as a retirement strategy
The significant growth in new fund establishments—up 26.26% compared to the same period last year—signals heightened interest from emerging client segments, especially younger professionals.
What Are SMSFs Investing In?
Understanding asset allocation trends is essential for advisors, especially as client portfolios diversify. The March 2025 quarter shows:
Listed shares remain the top asset class (26%), though declined 3.29% from the previous quarter
Cash and term deposits hold steady at 16%
Residential real property increased to $59.2 million
Commercial property grew to $111.5 million
Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangements (LRBAs) rose 1.51% to $73.6 million
Cryptocurrency investments dipped slightly by 0.5%
The uptick in property and LRBA allocations suggests a strategic pivot, with more trustees leveraging borrowing to invest in tangible assets.
Demographic Shifts: What They Mean for Client Conversations
SMSFs remain most popular among older Australians, but the latest data points to a clear generational shift:
85% of total SMSF members are aged 45 and over
38.5% of new members are aged 35–44, indicating increasing adoption by younger, financially literate professionals
24.7% of members earn between $100,000–$150,000 annually
Gender split remains stable at 53% male and 47% female
This evolving demographic suggests an opportunity for accounting firms to engage early with younger clients seeking long-term control over their retirement strategies—particularly those with higher disposable incomes who are better positioned to meet SMSF obligations.
What This Means for Accountants
For accounting professionals, the implications are clear:
Proactive planning is key: Younger trustees need guidance on compliance, contributions, and strategy from day one
Asset trends affect audit preparation: The shift toward property and LRBA structures underscores the need for accurate documentation and valuation records
Educated clients expect more: Today’s SMSF members are digitally savvy and well-researched. They look for accountants and auditors who can partner with them in both compliance and strategic decision-making
The Role of the Auditor: Supporting Compliance with Confidence
At Superannuation Audit Services, we understand that an accountant's role is multi-faceted—and a reliable audit partner makes all the difference.
We support firms by:
Delivering independent, ASIC-registered SMSF audits
Providing clear, transparent communication with both you and your clients
Helping identify and address compliance issues early
Staying ahead of legislative and regulatory updates
With the SMSF landscape expanding and evolving, a robust audit process not only ensures compliance—it also builds trust and strengthens your client relationships.
Partner with Superannuation Audit Services
The March 2025 ATO report confirms what many of us are seeing: SMSFs are growing in number, complexity, and strategic value. Accounting firms are on the front line of this shift—and the team at Superannuation Audit Services are here to provide support every step of the way.
Let’s work together to ensure your clients' SMSFs remain compliant, resilient, and ready for the future. Contact Superannuation Audit Services today to discuss how we can support your firm with timely, independent SMSF audits.
Book a FREE consultation with our team of dedicated SMSF auditors today.
Source: ATO – March 2025 SMSF Quarterly Statistical Report
