The SMSF trust deed is the most important document when a member passes away as it ultimately determines how the death benefits are distributed, a leading superannuation legal firm has said.

Kaplan Professional has expanded its qualification offering with the launch of a Graduate Certificate in Self Managed Superannuation Funds, the first of its kind in the country.

A former New South Wales company director, who ASIC said persuaded investors to set up SMSFs and pay about $618,000 for sham property investments, has been found guilty of six charges fraudulent misappropriation.

Carefully structuring and framing client discussions around boosting super contributions is necessary for clients aged under 45 and also requires the right timing.

SMSFs had been an amateur’s do-it-yourself project for too long, however, there were promising signs of advice take-up despite the possibility of higher costs through using an expert, according to industry consultant John Wiseman.