Building Wealth and Security with an SMSF

How a Pre-Retirement Business Owner Turned Their Super into a Long-Term Family Asset

(and how we helped them do it)

Client Background

Our client, a successful business owner in their early 50s, had built a thriving company with strong cashflow. Like many business owners, however, they had given little attention to superannuation planning.

With retirement planning on the horizon, they wanted to take control of their financial future by establishing a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF). Their goals were clear:

Grow wealth in a structured and tax-effective way
Protect assets for their family
Create a long-term succession pathway

Maven Advisors Expertise and experience with SMSF guidance and advice

The Challenge

Despite their business success, super felt like a “black box”.

Difficult to understand, lacking transparency, and disconnected from their personal goals.

They faced three major challenges:

Limited control over their existing super fund
High tax bills from pulling cash directly from the business
No succession plan to involve their family or secure their legacy

They needed a strategy that gave them visibility, control, and flexibility, while also delivering strong tax benefits for business owners and the building of their superannuation for retirement.

The Solution

We sat down with them to discuss the rules and opportunities an SMSF could provide to address their concerns and positioned them for long-term growth.

Purchasing Business Premises Through SMSF

The SMSF purchased the client’s commercial property (their business premises) and leased it back to the business at market rent. This created stability for the business while building wealth inside the fund.

Tax-Effective Superannuation Contributions

Concessional contributions were made from the business to reduce tax and grow the super balance faster. Concessional Contributions are taxed at just 15% inside the SMSF, compared to the client’s higher personal tax rate.

Diversified Investment Portfolio

To reduce risk and maintain flexibility, the clients reviewed their investment strategy within the SMSF to include a balanced mix of property, shares, and cash - ensuring both growth potential and liquidity.

Ongoing Compliance & Transparency

From ATO regulations to related-party rules, we ensured the SMSF remained fully compliant. Regular reporting and check-ins provided transparency and peace of mind.

Implementation Process

1

Worked step by step through SMSF setup, documentation, and compliance.

2

Obtained professional property valuations to ensure rent was set at market rates.

3

Coordinated with legal and financial advisors to align the strategy with succession planning.

4

Provided ongoing support, encouraging regular check-ins so issues could be addressed early.

Results & Outcomes

The strategy delivered significant benefits:

Tangible asset in super: The client now holds a tangible asset in their super, motivating them to contribute more regularly.
Reliable income stream: Rent from the business flowed directly into the SMSF
Family succession planning: Children could eventually participate in and benefit from the fund maintaining the asset within the fund
Substantial tax savings:

Contributions taxed at 15% instead of marginal rates
Capital gains reduced to 10% inside the fund
In retirement, investment earnings and withdrawals can be tax-free

Client Reflections

For the first time, I feel in control of my super. I can see exactly where my money is going, and I know the structure we’ve put in place will look after my family long after I retire. Having Tania guide us through the process gave us peace of mind — she cared enough to be honest, thorough, and always available.

Lessons & Insights

SMSFs are not just about property. Diversification is key to building reliable income.
Business owners often underestimate the tax benefits available through super.
The right support makes compliance manageable and gives confidence to make long-term decisions.

FAQs

How much do I need to start an SMSF?

While ASIC recommends around $500,000, we’ve seen disciplined business owners start with $200,000. The key is having a clear strategy and commitment to grow it.

Can I buy my business premises through my SMSF?

Yes. Your SMSF can purchase your commercial premises and lease it back to your business at market rent. This provides the fund with income while giving you security of tenure.

What happens if I sell the business but keep the property?

The SMSF continues to hold the property, and rental income becomes a passive income stream for retirement.

How does an SMSF compare tax-wise to an industry fund?

In an SMSF, contributions are taxed at 15%, capital gains at 10%, and in retirement, income can be tax-free. This is a major advantage over holding assets personally at marginal tax rates.

What happens to the fund if something happens to me?

With a clear binding death benefit nomination, assets can remain in the SMSF. Pensions or lump sums can pass directly to a spouse, and strategies exist to minimise tax for children or dependents.

Important note

This information is general in nature and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should seek advice from a licensed financial adviser before making decisions about superannuation or SMSFs.

Plan Your SMSF Strategy with Confidence

If you’re a business owner in your 40s, 50s, or early 60s, now is the time to plan your SMSF strategy. Our Port Macquarie SMSF specialists can help you reduce tax, protect your assets, and build a legacy for your family.

👉 Book a consultation with Maven Advisors today and take the first step toward a superannuation strategy that truly works for you and your family.

Call (02) 6584 9201 Book An Appointment