SMSF Growth Continues: What the June 2025 ATO Report Means for You and Your Clients
- Superannuation Audit Services
- Sep 3
- 2 min read
At Superannuation Audit Services (SAS), we’ve reviewed the latest data with an auditor’s lens to highlight what matters most for you and your clients.
A Growing SMSF Landscape
The sector now comprises over 653,000 SMSFs with more than 1.2 million members, collectively managing $1.05 trillion in assets. Notably:
41,980 new SMSFs were established between July 2024 and June 2025 — a 21% increase year-on-year.
Younger entrants are on the rise, with 37% of new members aged 35–44, reflecting growing awareness and engagement among professionals earlier in their careers.
The majority of SMSF members still fall into higher income brackets ($100,000–$150,000), aligning with the financial capacity needed to manage ongoing compliance.
What this means for you: More clients are either entering the SMSF space or considering it — and they’ll need specialist advice and reliable auditors to ensure smooth compliance from day one.
Asset Allocation Trends
The ATO data shows asset classes shifting steadily:
Listed shares remain dominant (29.38%).
Cash and term deposits continue to play a significant role (16.93%).
Property investment (residential and commercial) shows consistent growth.
Overseas shares and limited recourse borrowing arrangements are edging higher.
Crypto assets, however, have declined for the fourth consecutive quarter.
Audit perspective: Trustees experimenting with more diverse asset classes need timely and accurate market valuations. These valuations are critical for compliance, and failure to provide them exposes trustees (and their advisers) to risk.
Demographic Shifts & What They Signal
The gender split remains slightly male-dominated (53% men vs 47% women), but the generational shift is particularly important:
Younger trustees are entering earlier, seeking greater control and tax benefits.
Digital tools and education are lowering barriers to SMSF establishment.
Audit perspective: As younger trustees take charge, education around compliance obligations becomes essential. Accountants who guide new SMSF clients through these obligations — with the support of experienced auditors — will build stronger, long-term relationships.
Implications for Accountants & Advisers
The sector’s continued growth highlights several practical takeaways:
Demand for independence: With regulatory changes around auditor independence, firms must ensure they are working with external auditors like SAS who meet all ATO requirements.
Importance of quality audits: As SMSFs diversify investments, accurate and timely audits safeguard compliance and trustee confidence.
Forward planning is vital: Whether it’s liquidity, business succession, or estate planning, trustees need proactive advice well before retirement.
At SAS, we partner with accounting firms across Australia to deliver independent, efficient, and professional SMSF audits that support both compliance and client trust.
Looking Ahead
The June 2025 ATO report confirms that SMSFs remain a dynamic and growing part of Australia’s superannuation landscape. As more Australians seek control of their retirement savings, accountants and advisers are uniquely positioned to guide them — with the right audit partner by their side.
At SAS, our experienced team of ASIC-registered auditors is here to support you and your clients with efficient, independent audits that keep compliance simple and stress-free.
Let’s discuss how we can support your firm’s SMSF audit needs and share the latest ATO guidance with your team.
Book a FREE consultation with our team of dedicated SMSF auditors today.
Disclaimer: This communication is for general informational purposes. For tailored advice specific to your firm’s circumstances, please contact us directly.
