Self-Managed Super Fund Specialisation - October 2026

The CA ANZ SMSF Specialisation Course is designed to equip professionals with advanced technical knowledge and practical skills necessary for SMSF management. The course is structured around key SMSF events, including establishment, regulation of contributions, benefit payments, and investment management. It delves into contributions taxation, investment taxation, and benefit payment taxation, addressing anomalies, deficiencies, and planning opportunities in the legislation.

Facilitated by the Australian Graduate School of Management (AGSM) at UNSW, the course comprises five modules:

• Module 1: SMSF establishment, membership, and trustee requirements
• Module 2: SMSF Investment Standards
• Module 3: Taxation - contributions
• Module 4: SMSF Entity Taxation
• Module 5: SMSF Benefit Payments

Practical Application: Emphasizing real-world application, the course includes interactive exercises, case studies, and a final team project to test your competency in SMSF regulation and taxation.

Ethical Standards: The program emphasises the importance of ethical behaviour and professional standards, preparing you for roles that require high levels of integrity and expertise.

Flexible Learning: Delivered through interactive online sessions, the course allows you to balance your professional commitments. Access to online modules is provided via the AGSM UNSW portal, complemented by live online sessions.

For more information, refer to the course framework document within website.

Assumed Knowledge

• The course is pitched at the intermediate/advanced level.
• It is assumed that attendees have considerable experience in the SMSF space and therefore a reasonable level of understanding of the principles underpinning the five modules in this course.
• Attendees should ensure that additional revision is undertaken in any areas in which they have a knowledge gap

Who is the course suitable for?

• CA ANZ members and affiliate members with at least 4 years of practical SMSF experience within the last 10 years who wish to apply to become a CA SMSF Specialist or SMSF Specialist of CA ANZ.
• Accountants and professionals who want to deepen their knowledge and skills in SMSF management.
• Auditors looking to specialize in SMSF auditing to enhance their professional capabilities.
• Legal Professionals, financial advisors, and consultants who work closely with SMSF specialists.
• Non-CA ANZ members who want to expand their knowledge in the SMSF field for CPD purposes (note that non-members cannot apply to become a CA SMSF Specialist).

CPD hours

• Attendees will receive 40 CPD hours from this course.
• CA ANZ members will need log into their My CA profile to confirm the CPD hours in their CPD log.
• The course is worth 12 Certificate in Executive Management and Development (CEMD) points with UNSW AGSM.  Upon completion of the course, you will have earned the full CEMD.  The CEMD provides formal recognition of professional development and provides credits for selected AGSM MBA qualifications and Graduate Certificates should you wish to undertake further study.

Mode of delivery

• Live online course delivered weekly over an 8-week period.
• Access to the online course materials will be made available prior to course commencement.

Certification and Recognition 

Upon successful completion of the course and meeting the eligibility requirements, full CA ANZ members can apply for formal recognition as a CA SMSF Specialist, while Affiliate members can apply to become an SMSF Specialist of CA ANZ. This certification enhances your personal brand, credibility, and career prospects.

The course is worth 12 Certificate in Executive Management and Development (CEMD) points with UNSW AGSM. Upon completion of the course, you will have earned the full CEMD. The CEMD provides formal recognition of professional development and provides credits for selected AGSM MBA qualifications and Graduate Certificates should you wish to undertake further study.

Benefits of becoming a CA SMSF Specialist

Becoming a CA SMSF Specialist, not only enhances your professional reputation but also positions yourself as an invaluable asset to clients. You will help them manage and optimise their SMSFs, ensure compliance and provide expert advisory services.  Embrace the challenge and unlock your potential as a trusted leader in the SMSF sector.

• Increased Demand: SMSF specialists are in high demand due to the increasing complexity of superannuation regulations and the rising number of SMSFs. This demand is projected to grow, offering ample job opportunities, higher earning potential and career stability. By becoming a SMSF Specialist, you position yourself at the forefront of this expanding field, ensuring a secure and prosperous career. 
• Enhanced Skills: Gain in-depth knowledge of the complex regulations and compliance requirements associated with SMSFs. This expertise sets you apart from other accountants, making you a valuable asset to clients seeking accurate and up-to-date advice on managing their superannuation investments.
• Competitive Edge: The SMSF industry is dynamic and constantly evolving. As a CA SMSF Specialist, you stay ahead of the latest legislative and administrative developments, ensuring your knowledge and skills remain current. This continuous learning keeps you at the forefront of the industry, enhancing your value to clients and employers. As a recognized CA SMSF Specialist, you can use the 'CA SMSF Specialist' descriptor in your emails and marketing collateral. Promotion on 'Find a CA' service:  You can opt-in on the My CA portal to have your Specialist status publicly found on this service.
• Networking Opportunities: Join the CA SMSF Specialist community and connect with other specialists.  Share ideas, contacts, and experiences, leading to potential referrals from other practitioners, strategic partners, associated professionals and clients.
• Premium Perks: Enjoy access to complimentary specialist CPD and roadshow events, discounted CPD, and valuable tools and resources to assist you in meeting your specialist CPD obligations.
• Complete the SMSF Specialisation course and earn 12 Certificate in Executive Management and Development (CEMD) points with UNSW AGSM. This mean that upon completion of the course, you will have earned the full CEMD.  The certificate provides formal recognition of professional development and offers credits for selected AGSM MBA qualifications and Graduate Certificates should you wish to pursue further study. For more information visit AGSM.