SMSF friendly 2018-19 Federal Budget

An SMSF friendly budget is the good news coming out of the 2018-19 Federal Budget. With SMSF members still working through the wide-reaching and complex superannuation changes which took effect from 1 July 2017, this Federal Budget will provide much needed stability while looking to reduce costs for SMSFs and prove additional flexibility.

The key changes proposed for SMSFs and superannuation are:

Three‑yearly audit cycle for some SMSFs

The Government will change the annual SMSF audit requirement to a three-yearly requirement for SMSFs with a history of good record keeping and compliance. The measure will start on 1 July 2019 for SMSF trustees that have a history of three consecutive years of clear audit reports and that have lodged the fund’s annual returns in a timely manner.

Expanding the SMSF member limit from four to six

As already announced, the Federal Government confirmed its decision to expand the number of members allowed in an SMSF from four to six. Expanding the definition of an SMSF to a fund with a maximum of six members will provide greater flexibility in how funds can be structured.

Work test exemption

The Government will provide more time for Australians aged 65 to 74 to boost their retirement savings, by introducing an exemption from the superannuation work test.

This exemption will apply where an individual’s total superannuation balance is below $300,000 and will permit voluntary superannuation contributions in the first year that they do not meet the work test requirements.

Life insurance cover in super to be opt-in for individuals under 25 years of age

The Government will legislate that life insurance cover in superannuation will be opt-in for those individuals under 25 years of age or with account balances under $6000 to ensure that unnecessary fees do not erode smaller balances. Life insurance cover will also cease where no contributions have been made for a period of 13 months.

Older Australian package

The Government introduced the following measures to enhance the standard of living for older Australians:

• Increase to the Pension Work Bonus from $250 to $300 per fortnight
• Amendments to the pension means test rules to encourage the take up of lifetime retirement income products
• Expansion of the Pensions Loan Scheme to allow more Australians to use the equity in their homes to increase their incomes.

How can we help?

If you have any questions or would like further clarification in regards to any of the measures outlined in the 2018-19 Federal Budget, please feel free to give me a call on +61 2 4962 2688 to arrange a time to meet so that we can discuss your particular requirements in more detail.