Australia’s passion for self-managed super funds (SMSFs) is stronger than ever. According to the ATO’s June 2025 quarterly statistical report, SMSFs have officially surpassed the $1 trillion mark in assets, cementing their place as a key driver of retirement wealth.
If you’ve ever wondered where SMSFs stand in the bigger superannuation picture, here’s what the latest data reveals.
SMSFs by the Numbers
The numbers highlight the enduring appeal of SMSFs, particularly the flexibility they provide in investment choice and strategy.
Where Are SMSFs Investing?
ATO data shows SMSF members continue to prefer traditional asset classes, with:
Emerging trends include crypto investments, now valued at $3 billion – still a very small share of the overall SMSF market.
Who Runs SMSFs?
SMSFs are primarily used by Australians approaching or already in retirement:
This reflects that SMSFs are generally more attractive to those with larger balances and a long-term investment mindset.
Annual Trends – 2023/24 in Review
The ATO also provided insights into the previous financial year:
These figures underline that SMSFs are a major wealth-building vehicle for Australians seeking greater control over their retirement savings.
What Do the Numbers Tell Us?
With over $1 trillion managed outside large retail and industry super funds, SMSFs are reshaping investment markets – particularly in shares and property.
However, SMSFs are not for everyone. They require active management, compliance, and responsibility, making them more suitable for individuals with higher balances and a willingness to take a hands-on approach.
Final Thoughts
The June 2025 ATO report confirms that SMSFs continue to grow steadily, with strong allocations to Australian shares, property, and cash. While crypto and overseas investments are gaining attention, they remain a small piece of the puzzle.
For Australians with the right balance and appetite for involvement, SMSFs remain a powerful tool for building retirement wealth. And with $1.05 trillion under management, they’re set to remain a dominant force in the superannuation landscape for years to come.
If you’re considering using your self-managed super fund (SMSF) to buy property, you’ll need the right structure in place. One of the main ways to do this is through a Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangement (LRBA).
With over $4 trillion in superannuation savings, it’s no surprise that scammers see super as an easy target. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has issued warnings about the growing number of high-pressure sales tactics and misleading promises designed to trick Australians into risky superannuation switches. Since your super is likely to be one of your largest lifetime investments, knowing how to protect it is essential.
Superannuation is one of the most tax-effective ways to save for retirement. But the government sets strict annual limits,
called contribution caps, on how much you can add to your super. If you go over these caps, you may face extra tax.
Here’s what happens, your options, and how to avoid breaching the limits.