Accounting practices would need to determine whether their clients wanted more than just tax and compliance work as many were favouring an advisory-style relationship, according to a business futurist.

Topdocs has added automated Australian business number (ABN) applications for SMSFs to its online portal through a new direct link with the Australian Business Register (ABR).

Auditors should avoid sending out positive management letters or reports to trustees regardless of whether the fund meets its compliance requirements, according to an audit specialist.

The ATO has confirmed it considers the practice of offering low-cost SMSF audits as a high risk factor and as such will be continuing to scrutinise individuals offering this type of service.

Biannual research from RGi Group has found understanding the legal requirements and regulations for setting up an SMSF were the biggest hurdle when starting out.

Strategies around terminal illnesses and death may seem distasteful, but can effectively minimise tax and provide significant value and peace of mind for clients.

A number of industry submissions to the Inquiry into Economic Security for Women in Retirement have called for changes to the contributions caps to allow women with interrupted workforce participation to amass sufficient savings to fund their retirement.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has brought criminal charges against Grant Ross, including one count of carrying on an unlicensed financial services business and three counts of engaging in unlicensed credit activity.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has issued a permanent ban on Perth-based former financial planner Marion Pearson for improper conduct in relation to advice provided to SMSF clients.