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

• 653,062 SMSFs registered across Australia
• 1.2 million members
• $1.05 trillion in assets under management

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:

• 28% in listed shares
• 16% in cash and term deposits
• $105 billion in non-residential property
• $57 billion in residential property

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:

• 85% of members are aged 45+
• Gender split is 53% male, 47% female

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:

• Average assets per member: $881,000
• Average assets per SMSF: $1.6 million
• Member contributions: $19.9 billion
• Employer contributions: $6.3 billion

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.