Should an SMSF be your next super move—or is a simpler fund already capable of doing what you need?
In this Australian Finance Podcast episode, Gemma Mitchell sits down with Rask adviser Chamil Peiris to unpack self-managed super funds without the sales pitch. They explain what “self-managed” really means, from investment control to the trustee, compliance, record-keeping and audit obligations that remain yours even when accountants and advisers help.
You’ll learn why investors consider SMSFs for direct property, commercial property, crypto, physical assets or broader investment choice; where retail and member-directed options may solve the same problem with less work; and why greater control does not automatically produce a better outcome.
Gemma and Chamil also examine the costs of establishing and running a fund, the risks of concentrating personal wealth and super in property, pension-phase liquidity issues, family disputes and estate planning. They cover common property mistakes, the dangers of cookie-cutter advice and why an exit plan matters before a fund is established.
If you already have an SMSF, this conversation will help you test whether its original purpose still holds. If you are considering one, start with the question Chamil asks every prospective trustee: what can an SMSF do for your goals that every other option cannot?
Listen for a practical three-part framework: begin with the goal, understand the workload and build an independent professional support team.
