eSMSF Accountant

If you're looking for an SMSF accounting firm that doesn't cut corners, you're in the right place. We support accountants, tax agents, and administrators by providing complete SMSF services across Australia. From our centralized location, we manage everything – no outsourcing, no hidden fees, just trusted SMSF services delivered by licensed professionals who know the rules, meet deadlines, and get the job done right.

As a trusted SMSF accounting firm, we focus only on self-managed super funds. That’s our specialization. Whether it’s regular compliance, SMSF tax returns, audits, or winding up a fund – we handle the technical work, so you can focus on your core business.

What makes us a trusted SMSF accounting firm?

Not all accounting firms operate with the same standards. Some outsource tasks overseas. Others offer vague timelines or ignore the details that matter when it comes to compliance.

We’ve chosen a different path.

• Every SMSF is handled by licensed, qualified professionals based in Australia.

• Our team is centrally located for efficiency, consistency, and clear communication.

• We don’t rely on junior staff or external contractors.

• You get accurate, timely updates every step of the way

When you're working with multiple SMSFs, you need a partner you can rely on. That’s why accounting professionals trust us for SMSF services across Australia.

Fixed fees. No surprises.

Some SMSF accounting firms start with a base quote and then add extras later. The result? Confused clients and ballooning costs. That’s not how we do things.

We use a clear, fixed-fee model.

• No hidden charges.

• Detailed scope of services provided upfront.

• Options to suit one-off jobs or long-term support.

• Predictable pricing that helps you plan your cash flow.

Whether you're handling a single fund or managing dozens, our fee model keeps things transparent and under control.

100% Australian-based trusted SMSF accounting firm, no outsourcing

Every part of your SMSF work is handled in-house, by our team based in Australia. We don’t outsource overseas. That means your queries are answered faster, compliance issues are handled locally, and the work reflects current Australian regulations.

• Licensed professionals with SMSF experience.

• Faster communication and turnaround.

• No offshore delays or quality concerns.

• Up-to-date with ATO regulations and changes.

An Australian SMSF accounting firm that operate in Australia – and that’s exactly how we work.

Fast turnaround, accurate reporting

Deadlines matter in SMSF accounting. One missed report can trigger penalties or audits. We’ve built our systems to ensure that doesn’t happen.

• On-time BAS and tax lodgments.

• Compliance reporting and documentation.

• Real-time progress updates.

• Fast answers when you need support.

Whether you're heading into EOFY or facing a last-minute lodgement, our team is ready to step in and keep things running smoothly.

Trusted compliance support that protects your clients

SMSF compliance has become stricter in recent years. The ATO is more active, and fund managers need to be extra careful. We've worked with SMSFs in all kinds of situations – from simple annual lodgements to tricky windups with in-house asset issues.

• Late lodgement corrections.

• Guidance on fund restructuring.

• Support for complex asset portfolios.

• Clear advice on compliance best practices.

We know how to navigate the rules and help you stay out of trouble.

Supporting accountants, tax agents, and SMSF administrators

We’re here to help you scale your SMSF services without adding to your workload. From our centralised setup, we offer seamless SMSF support to accounting professionals and firms across the country.

• White-labelled services available.

• Bulk SMSF support or individual jobs.

• Flexible structure to suit your workflow.

• Dedicated point of contact for your firm.

Whether you're managing 5 funds or 500, we bring reliability, structure, and clarity to your SMSF operations.

Ready to work with a trusted SMSF accounting firm?

Whether you're an accountant managing multiple funds, a tax agent handling complex compliance cases, or an administrator who wants reliable back-end support – we’re here to help. Our trusted Australian SMSF accounting firm offers dependable, licensed, and fully local services designed to take the stress out of SMSF compliance.

Let’s simplify your SMSF workload.

Reach out today to learn how our trusted SMSF services can support your business across Australia – no call centres, no outsourcing, just clarity and results.

Setting up a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) is a serious financial step. It gives you control over your retirement savings, but it also comes with setup responsibilities, legal obligations, and compliance costs. Understanding SMSF setup costs upfront helps you plan better and avoid surprises later.

At eSMSF Accountant, we work with accountants, administrators, and trustees who want clarity on how much it costs to set up an SMSF in 2026 – and how to manage ongoing costs effectively.

What’s included in SMSF setup costs

The total setup cost depends on your fund’s structure and the level of professional help you need. On average, SMSF setup costs range from $1,000 to $2,500 when done through a registered accountant or SMSF administrator.

A typical setup includes:

• Establishing the SMSF trust deed and trustee structure

• Applying for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and Tax File Number (TFN)

• Opening a dedicated SMSF bank account

• Registering the fund with the ATO

• Arranging investment strategy templates or guidance

• Setting up online access for reporting and administration

If you choose a corporate trustee structure instead of individual trustees, expect higher setup costs – usually between $1,000 and $1,500 extra – because it involves ASIC registration and additional legal documentation.

Factors that affect the total setup cost

The final cost can vary depending on several factors:

• Whether you use individual or corporate trustees

• The level of customisation in your trust deed

• Whether investment strategy and advice are included

• Additional legal or accounting consultation required

• Your choice of SMSF platform or administration software

Many low-cost providers advertise cheap setup options, but they often exclude essentials like trust deeds drafted by professionals or compliance reviews by registered accountants. Cutting corners at setup often leads to higher costs later during audits or ATO reviews.

Ongoing compliance and administration expenses

Setting up an SMSF is only the beginning. Trustees must also plan for annual accounting, auditing, and ATO lodgement fees.

Typical yearly costs include:

• Annual financial statements and tax return preparation – $1,500 to $2,500

• Independent SMSF audit – $300 to $600

• ASIC annual review fee (for corporate trustees) – around $67

• SMSF software and record-keeping costs – varies by provider

It’s important to note that compliance rules are becoming tighter each year. The ATO expects accurate reporting, timely lodgement, and professional oversight. Partnering with a reliable SMSF accountant helps ensure that your fund remains compliant while you focus on investment decisions.

How professional SMSF setup services save time and money

Many trustees and administrators choose to work with professional SMSF accounting firms for one simple reason – accuracy from day one. A correctly established SMSF avoids penalties, duplication of fees, and compliance setbacks.

At eSMSF Accountant, we handle the complete setup process, from arrangingtrust deeds to registering your fund with the ATO. We also integrate your setup with leading SMSF software such as BGL or Class Super to simplify ongoing reporting and lodgements.

Our SMSF setup services are designed for accountants, tax agents, and administrators who want to outsource the technical and compliance aspects while retaining client ownership.

Get clarity before you begin

If you’re unsure how much it costs to set up an SMSF or which structure best suits your situation, start by getting a professional assessment. Transparent pricing and clear documentation from the start will help you stay compliant and confident.

Whether you manage your own SMSF or dozens for your clients, two things matter most – control and compliance.

You want to stay on top of things. But not get buried under paperwork. You want reports to be accurate, rules to be followed, taxes to be optimized, and audits to go smoothly. You don’t want surprises. And you don’t want to chase people for help.

That’s where we come in.

We’re eSMSF Accountant – your SMSF accountant and registered SMSF tax agent. We help you take care of the numbers, so you can focus on the big picture.

From setup to wind-up, we offer National SMSF Accounting for both trustees and professionals – whether you’re in Melbourne, or anywhere else in Australia.

Why choose eSMSF Accountant?

Because you need someone who knows this space inside-out.

We don’t do general tax returns. We don’t do company audits. We only work on Self-Managed Super Funds. That’s it.

So when you talk to us, you're not explaining what an ECPI or an LRBA is. You're not waiting on someone who needs to “check with the SMSF team.” You're speaking directly to the SMSF team.

For trustees: We give you control without the confusion. You still make the decisions – we just take care of the red tape.

For professionals: We become your backend. You grow, we scale with you. No long-term contracts. No handholding.

And yes, everything is done remotely – fast, clear, and 100% compliant.

National SMSF Accounting services for trustees

If you’re managing your own SMSF, you probably started because you wanted freedom. To choose your own investments. To control how your retirement money is used. To avoid high fees and slow responses.

But you quickly realise – it’s a lot to manage.

ATO rules, annual audits, contribution caps, pension reporting, asset revaluation… one slip, and you risk non-compliance.

Here’s what we do as your SMSF accountant and SMSF tax agent:

Help you set up your fund (or transition from another provider)

Prepare accurate year-end financials

Lodge your SMSF annual return with the ATO

Organise your independent audit

Advise on contributions, pensions, and reserving strategies

Ensure your fund meets all tax and regulatory obligations

Handle property-related complexities (like LRBA loans)

And we explain things clearly. No jargon. No mystery. Just straight answers.

National SMSF Accounting services for professionals

If you’re an accountant, administrator or tax agent handling multiple SMSFs – you don’t need more staff. You need capacity.

You want to deliver quality service, stay on top of lodgment dates, and avoid burnout during audit season.

We plug into your workflow as your silent backend engine.

Our national SMSF accounting services include:

Processing fund transactions daily or quarterly

Preparing financial statements, member statements, and journals

Preparing and lodging annual SMSF tax returns

Coordinating annual audits

Keeping track of contribution caps, pension minimums, and event-based reporting

Working with your software – or ours (Class Super, BGL 360)

You stay in control of the client. We handle the numbers. Clean. Accurate. On time.

SMSF Tax agent services you can trust

We’re not just accountants. We’re registered with the Tax Practitioners Board and specialize in SMSFs.

That matters because SMSFs are different from standard tax clients. Mistakes here don’t just lead to penalties – they could make the whole fund non-compliant.

When you work with us, you get:

A dedicated SMSF tax agent who knows your fund inside-out

Timely lodgments with the ATO

Help with tax-effective contributions and pensions

Ongoing support with any ATO correspondence

Full compliance with Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act requirements

Whether you're a trustee or a professional managing multiple funds, our tax team is on your side.

Why we don’t outsource (and why that’s important)

We take on SMSF outsourcing work – but we don’t outsource any part of it ourselves.

All our SMSF accountants and tax agents live and work within Australia.

That means:

Your data stays in Australia

Your fund is handled by someone who understands local tax law

You get answers in real time – not across time zones

No communication gaps or delays

Consistent service and full accountability

You get the benefits of outsourcing without losing control or quality. And you never have to worry about who’s actually doing the work.

SMSF outsourcing benefits for professionals

If you're running a small or mid-sized accounting firm, outsourcing your SMSF workload can free up time, improve your bottom line, and help you deliver better results.

With eSMSF Accountant as your backend:

You keep the client relationship

You control the presentation and delivery

You cut overheads and training costs

You scale up or down as needed

We provide:

Financial statement preparation

Annual return lodgment

Audit coordination

Software-based fund administration

It’s a simple, efficient way to expand your SMSF services without adding pressure on your team.

SMSF outsourcing benefits for trustees

Outsourcing your SMSF compliance doesn’t mean giving up control. You still make the big decisions. You still choose the investments. But we make sure the back-end runs smoothly.

Here’s what outsourcing gives you:

Less time spent on paperwork

No missed lodgment deadlines

No guesswork with ATO rules

Lower risk of penalties or errors

More time to focus on your investment strategy

And because everything is handled by Australian professionals, you get support that’s relevant, quick, and easy to understand.

How SMSF outsourcing improves your accounting process

When you outsource your SMSF accounting, your process becomes tighter, cleaner, and more transparent.

We work with cloud-based platforms like Class and BGL 360, which means:

Transactions are automatically matched to source data

Reporting is real-time and audit-ready

No lost emails or misplaced files

Less room for manual errors

Whether you're a busy trustee or an accountant juggling dozens of funds, outsourcing with the right partner simplifies your workflow and improves turnaround times.

Frequently asked questions

Do you work with both trustees and professionals? Yes. We support trustees who manage their own SMSF, and also provide backend services for accountants, tax agents, and SMSF administrators.

Do you handle SMSF setup and windup? Yes. We can help start your fund, take over from another provider, or assist in closing down your SMSF correctly.

Can I still manage investments if I outsource accounting? Absolutely. You remain in full control of investment decisions. We just take care of compliance, accounting, and tax reporting.

Is everything handled in Australia? Yes. Our entire team is based in Australia. We don’t outsource overseas.

What platforms do you use? We use Class Super and BGL Simple Fund 360, depending on your preference.

What it feels like to have your SMSF Tax Sorted?

You stop worrying about fines and lodgment deadlines.

• You know exactly how much tax your fund owes (or saves).

• You feel confident during audit season.

• You’re not stuck chasing documents in folders you forgot existed.

• You get time back to actually focus on growing your super

That’s what our SMSF tax return services are really about: Less stress. More clarity. Better results. Let’s get started today.

What it feels like to have your SMSF Tax Sorted?

You stop worrying about fines and lodgment deadlines.

• You know exactly how much tax your fund owes (or saves).

• You feel confident during audit season.

• You’re not stuck chasing documents in folders you forgot existed.

• You get time back to actually focus on growing your super

Our SMSF accounting services = fewer problems, more peace of mind

We don’t just prepare your numbers. We prepare your fund for the real world – where audits, penalties, and strict compliance are part of the deal.

Our SMSF accounting services include:

• Full-year financials, prepared accurately.

• Lodgement of SMSF Annual Return.

• Tracking contributions and pensions.

• Reconciliation of bank accounts and investments.

• End-of-year tax calculations.

• Support for your SMSF auditor.

A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) is a private superannuation fund that gives individuals full control over how their retirement savings are managed. But with that control comes responsibility. SMSFs must meet strict tax laws, reporting obligations, and audit requirements. That’s where things can quickly become overwhelming.

SMSF outsourcing means handing over specific tasks — like accounting, tax returns, audits, or even the fund setup — to qualified professionals. You’re still the one dealing with clients, but you don’t have to deal with the tricky technical side. Outsourcing doesn’t take control away from you — it simply gives you support from experts who do this every day. At eSMSF Accountant, we take on SMSF outsourcing jobs, but we don’t outsource anything ourselves. All our work is done in Australia, by people who understand the local laws and know what’s at stake.

Why more SMSF accountants, tax agents and administrators are turning to outsourcing

Managing an SMSF requires time, effort, and a strong understanding of superannuation laws. It’s not like running a personal savings account. There are contributions to track, financial statements to prepare, taxes to file, and annual audits to organise. It’s a lot. And it only gets more complicated as your fund grows.

This is where SMSF outsourcing becomes a valuable tool. You can outsource core services such as:

• SMSF accounting • SMSF tax return preparation • Independent audits • SMSF setup and registrations • Closing down (winding up) of the fund

Letting experts manage these areas can save you time and reduce risk. More importantly, it can help you avoid expensive mistakes that may result in penalties or non-compliance notices from the ATO.

Key benefits of SMSF outsourcing

When you outsource SMSF services, you gain more than just free time. You gain peace of mind knowing that trained professionals are keeping your clients fund compliant and up-to-date.

Some clear benefits include:

• Accuracy — Professionals are less likely to make mistakes in accounting or tax filings. • Compliance — Stay aligned with changing ATO regulations. • Efficiency — Avoid delays in lodgement, audit preparation, and end-of-year reports. • Cost savings — Catching small errors early can save you from large penalties later. • Better decision-making — Reliable records help you make smarter investment choices.

By choosing SMSF outsourcing, you don’t have to become a superannuation expert overnight. You can focus on growing your client base while letting the experts handle the rest.

What happens if you don’t outsource?

Trying to handle everything yourself may feel empowering at first. But if you’re not familiar with super laws, you may accidentally break the rules.

Common issues when you don’t outsource:

• Late or incorrect tax returns • Misreported asset values • Missed contribution caps • Poor documentation for audits • Penalties for non-compliance

These problems can cost thousands and even threaten the compliance status of your fund. And once the ATO marks your fund as non-compliant, the consequences are hard to reverse.

Avoiding outsourcing might feel like saving money — but in the long run, it could cost you far more.

Onshore vs offshore SMSF outsourcing: what you need to know

Some companies outsource your SMSF work to other countries. That may lower their costs, but it increases your risk. Overseas accountants may not fully understand Australian tax rules. They may not be available during business hours. And communication can suffer when there’s a time or language barrier.

At eSMSF Accountant, we do things differently:

• We don’t outsource. Ever. • All our accountants, tax experts, and auditors live and work in Australia. • You deal with a local team who understands your challenges.

Why this matters:

• Local knowledge of ATO requirements • Quick support when you need it • Data security under Australian privacy laws • Clear, timely communication

You deserve a team that takes your clients fund as seriously as you do. That’s why all SMSF outsourcing at eSMSF Accountant stays onshore — where it belongs.

Affordable SMSF outsourcing for you

We understand that you have different needs based on the size and stage of their fund. That’s why our SMSF outsourcing services are designed to work for everyone — from new fund owners to experienced investors.

Here’s how we adapt:

• New SMSFs: Low-cost setup and full compliance support from day one. • Growing funds: Same high-quality service, even as asset structures get complex. • Large funds: Audit-ready reporting and detailed accounting without inflated fees.

Benefits you can expect:

• Transparent pricing • No hidden charges • Services that grow with your fund • Dedicated support from real people

With eSMSF Accountant, you don’t need to trade quality for affordability. We give you both.

How SMSF outsourcing improves your accounting process

Running an SMSF means keeping accurate records of everything — your fund’s income, expenses, asset values, member balances, and contributions. This isn’t just good practice. It’s the law. But let’s be honest — keeping up with these records every single month can be hard when you’re doing it alone.

That’s where SMSF outsourcing changes everything. Instead of trying to manage spreadsheets and reconcile numbers on your weekends, you can work with SMSF accountants who do this every day. They know what to track. They know the ATO rules. And they make sure your accounts are clear, updated, and ready for your annual return.

With SMSF outsourcing, your accounting process becomes:

• More accurate, with fewer mistakes • More efficient, thanks to experienced professionals • Better organised, with clean records and proper backups • Less stressful, especially during audits or reviews • Fully compliant with current SMSF accounting standards

Outsourcing your accounting doesn’t mean giving up control. It means you’re taking smart steps to protect your clients fund from errors, penalties, and unnecessary work.

How SMSF outsourcing improves your yearly tax return process

One of the most important jobs for SMSF administrators is filing the annual SMSF tax return. It isn’t just a tax form. It includes financial statements, member contributions, investment earnings, and regulatory compliance details. It’s long, complex, and needs to be done right. That’s why many choose to outsource this task to SMSF professionals.

With SMSF outsourcing, your tax return process becomes much easier. You don’t have to stress about forms, deadlines, or ATO rules. You simply hand over your records to a qualified accountant who knows exactly what to do. They’ll check your contributions, value your assets, prepare the right reports, and lodge the return on time.

Here’s how SMSF outsourcing helps during tax time:

• Keeps your financials clean and audit-ready • Avoids penalties due to late lodgement • Prevents mistakes in contribution caps or asset values • Gives you accurate data to make smart fund decisions • Helps you meet ATO compliance standards year after year

If you’re tired of struggling with tax season, outsourcing your SMSF tax return may be the smartest decision you make this year.

Frequently asked questions about SMSF outsourcing

Q. What services can I outsource as an SMSF administrator?

A. You can outsource accounting, tax return preparation, audit coordination, SMSF setup, and fund winding-up.

Q. Does outsourcing mean I lose control of my SMSF client?

A. Not at all. You still retain the control. We just help fund stay compliant and organised.

Q. Why is it better to work with onshore SMSF professionals?

A. Local experts understand Australian tax laws, communicate clearly, and work under strict privacy rules.

Q. Will outsourcing cost me more in the long run?

A. Actually, it usually costs less. Mistakes are expensive. Expert support helps avoid penalties and keeps your fund compliant.

Q. Can I switch to eSMSF Accountant from another provider?

A. Yes. We’ll help you transition smoothly and ensure no reporting deadlines are missed.

Ready to outsource your SMSF tasks the smart way?

At eSMSF Accountant, we offer onshore SMSF outsourcing with no shortcuts, no confusion, and no guesswork. Whether it’s setting up your fund, handling the yearly tax return, or managing full SMSF accounting, our team is here to support you.

You stay in control. We keep things compliant.

Lodging your SMSF Annual Return (SAR) is more than just ticking a box – it’s a vital responsibility. Missing deadlines can result in ATO penalties, impact your fund’s compliance, and even lock you out from making contributions. This guide walks you through what the SAR includes, the deadlines based on different scenarios, and how to meet all your commitments throughout the year. No investment advice – just clear technical information for trustees.

What Is the SMSF Annual Return (SAR)?

The SAR is a single form that combines superannuation reporting with tax data. It covers:

The fund’s income, expenses, gains, and losses.

Member contributions and tax components.

Pension payments and any exemptions claimed.

Compliance confirmations, including auditor details and levy payments

Submitting the SAR assures the ATO that your fund meets the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act’s requirements and remains compliant. You can only submit once your annual audit is finished – making timing essential.

Important Due Dates for Your SAR | Filing SMSF Tax Return

Deadlines depend on how you filing smsf tax return and your fund’s past lodgements:

31 October – For trustees lodging themselves, especially newer SMSFs or those with past deficits.

15 May – Standard date for existing SMSFs lodged by registered tax agents.

28 February – An early deadline for certain initial agent-lodged returns newly registered SMSFs.

A completed audit must precede the SAR lodgement so your financials are accurate and certified.

What Happens If You Lodge Late?

Delaying your return can lead to serious consequences:

You may face Failure-to-Lodge penalties that increase every 28 days.

Your fund might lose the ability to receive contributions or rollover amounts.

The ATO may declare it non-compliant, which means it could be taxed at a higher rate.

Ongoing delays risk removal from tax agent lodgement programs and loss of deadline extensions.

Staying punctual safeguards both your fund’s status and flexibility.

Other Deadlines Throughout the Year | Filing SMSF Tax Return

Staying compliant doesn’t stop with the SAR:

TBAR (Transfer Balance Account Report)

Due within 28 days after the end of the quarter in which the event occurred. 30 June pension payments

Minimum payments must be made to maintain tax-advantaged pension status.

PAYG and BAS deadlines

Required quarterly.

How Specialist Filing SMSF Tax Return Services Help

Using a dedicated SMSF tax service ensures you stay compliant with ease:

They track your SAR deadline accurately, based on your situation.

They align your audit and return so everything is filed correctly.

They reconcile pension payments and contributions before you lodge.

They manage TBAR reporting if needed.

They submit your return and calculated tax promptly.

They monitor your fund status online to avoid any loss of privileges.

With this help, you avoid late notices, penalties, and unnecessary stress.

The Role of Your SMSF Auditor Before Lodging

Before your SMSF Annual Return can be lodged, your fund must be audited by an approved SMSF auditor. This is not optional – its a legal requirement.

The audit has two parts:

Financial audit: Ensures your SMSFs financial statements are accurate and complete.

Compliance audit: Checks if your fund has followed all rules under the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act.

Why is this important?

If your auditor finds compliance breaches, they are obligated to report them to the ATO.

The audit report must be obtained when filing  SMSF tax Return, so delays in auditing lead to delays in filing.

Tip: Book your auditor early – especially between July and October – since demand is high and delays can affect your SAR deadline.

Tips for Staying Lodgement-Ready All Year

Filing your SMSF tax return shouldn’t be a last-minute scramble. Here are a few habits to stay prepared all year long:

Automate recordkeeping: Use SMSF accounting software to record every transaction in real time.

Set quarterly calendar alerts: Keep due dates for TBAR, SAR, and BAS (if applicable) visible.

Reconcile bank accounts monthly: Avoid year-end surprises by checking for missing or unmatched transactions.

Maintain communication: Stay in touch with your accountant and tax agent, especially if there are big fund changes like asset sales or pension starts.

Doing a little every month makes compliance easier and less stressful at the end of the year.

Why This Is a Complete Guide to Filing SMSF Tax Return

If you’ve made it this far, you now understand more than just the deadlines. You know what goes into a proper SMSF tax return, what documents are required, how audits tie in, and how penalties can add up if things aren’t done correctly.

So why call this a complete guide?

Because it walks you through:

The key dates that every trustee needs to know.

The role of SMSF auditors before filing.

What goes into the SMSF Annual Return (SAR).

How to avoid common lodgement mistakes.

Best practices for staying organised year-round.

When managing your own super fund, the difference between stress and confidence comes down to process. A solid checklist. Clean records. A capable SMSF accountant who’s handled hundreds of returns just like yours.

This complete guide isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about helping you take control, stay compliant, and sleep easier knowing your fund is being managed right.

Common Questions Answered

Q: What if I file myself and miss 31 October?

A: You risk penalties and losing contribution access. For those behind, working with a tax agent ASAP is strongly recommended.

Q: Do agents get an extension?

A: Yes – regular filings via a tax agent lodgement due date is 15 May for existing SMSFs, and 28th Feb if its new SMSF with first year return (with previous returns lodged on time).

Q: When does the audit happen?

A: Before SAR lodgement – typically a few weeks earlier – so everything is signed off and complete.

Q: What if my fund had no activity this (first) year?

A: You can lodge a “Return not necessary” or opt to cancel registration. Regular deadlines resume once you file again.

Q: What is TBAR, and when is it required?

A: Its transfer balance account reporting and reports events to the tax office for members pension account. It is within 28 days after the end of the quarter of the event occurrence.

Final Thoughts

Keep your SAR, audit, and other reporting deadlines clearly marked in your calendar.

Ensure audits are completed before attempting SAR lodgement.

Use a specialist SMSF tax service to avoid accidental errors or missed deadlines.

Track key reports like TBAR, pension payments, BAS, and PAYG – all part of ongoing compliance.