The SMSF Association (SMSFA) is pitching next year’s annual conference at practitioners and specialists working across the superannuation sector, stating its content will also have application for those working beyond the SMSF sector.
The conference will take place in Melbourne from 22 to 24 February and adopt the theme of Hivemind, with the industry body stating the event would take a collaborative approach to sharing information where attendees contribute as well as receive to collectively build up knowledge and expertise.
Association chief executive John Maroney said the conference content was not restricted to those working in the SMSF sector and had a wider application to the superannuation industry.
“In devising the 2023 content, we have ensured a well-rounded program to best support our attendees working in the superannuation advice sector,” Maroney said.
“Many of the strategies covered in the sessions are equally relevant to members of Australian Prudential Regulation Authority-regulated funds.
“So even if you don’t currently provide SMSF advice or have SMSF clients, from a technical knowledge and networking perspective, there is still much to gain from attending our national conference and, of course, learning more about the new opportunities SMSFs can provide.”
As part of this broader approach, the SMSFA highlighted the conference would address the recommendations of the final report of the Quality of Advice Review, which is due in December.
Review chair Michelle Levy will be part of a four-member panel that also includes Maroney, Financial Planning Association chief executive Sarah Abood and AZ Next Generation Advisory chief executive Paul Barrett.
“The Quality of Advice Review is a session that we felt was a pivotal inclusion on the agenda and that a panel discussion was the best format to allow the audience to ask questions of industry leaders such as Levy,” Maroney said.
The conference sessions will also address issues related to a death in the family or preparing for retirement.
“It’s not just a matter of examining these issues from a regulatory or tax perspective. They are often complex and emotional issues and as such there are often ethical considerations as well,” Maroney said.
“Speaking with members over the past year, it has become apparent that attending our national conference and hearing from some of the brightest minds in the SMSF industry, as well as having these unique networking opportunities facilitated, is of great benefit to their careers.
“In having access to this vibrant community and wealth of knowledge, our members are stronger together.”
