What happened
The Class 2026 Annual Benchmark Report showed the SMSF sector reached a record 680,301 funds holding $1.107 trillion in assets by 30 June 2026. A record 52,020 new SMSFs were established in FY26, with Gen X and Millennials accounting for 89.1% of new setups. Industry super funds were the primary source of inflows, representing 57.2% of total rollovers into SMSFs.
Why it matters here
The surge in SMSF creation among Australians in their 30s and 40s highlights an increasing preference for control, flexibility, and direct portfolio ownership despite new regulatory changes. For superannuation providers, this steady movement of capital out of industry funds and retail platforms reinforces competition across Australia's wealth management industry.
What to watch
Ongoing policy developments surrounding Division 296 tax changes, Payday Super implementation, and updated Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangement rules as self-managed funds continue to expand.
Source
adviservoice.com.au