If we ever needed reminding that 2020 is indeed a strange year, look no further than the fact that the 2020 Federal Budget will be brought down in early October rather than the traditional 'second Tuesday in May'.

Understanding the laws around self-managed superannuation funds is complicated, especially when divorce is involved, so get good advice from a professional.

Everyone at my work has taken a 20% pay cut as our company is really suffering because of COVID-19. But we still work our normal full-time hours. Will I be able to access my super under the new special rules introduced last month?

My accountant told me last year that I can’t make personal contributions anymore because I have more than $1.6m in super. But my account is worth much less now, does that mean I can go back to putting in up to $100,000 pa?

On 20 April 2020 applications will open for members seeking to access some of their super under the Government’s new early release rules. Speed up the application process and maximise the amount able to be withdrawn with these 7 steps.

There is really nothing good to say about investment markets right now – nor, of course, the existential challenge that COVID-19 poses to society. But what does it all mean for our superannuation and in particular pensions?

On 22 March 2020 the Government announced the second of their stimulus packages to support Australia through the economic consequences of the Covid-19. The rules announced today for those suffering reduced incomes are explained here.

On 22 March 2020 the Government announced the second of their stimulus packages to support Australia through the economic consequences of the Covid-19. The rules announced today for retirees are explained here.

In any discussion about the pros and cons of SMSFs, the most common words in the conversation are 'control' and 'flexibility'. And these are certainly highly relevant as they are indeed benefits of SMSFs.

Originally published in "Australian Financial Review" - We outline the rules to follow when your DIY fund invests in areas that might be perfectly legal but are less common.

The ATO recently identified approximately 18,000 SMSFs who hold 90% or more of their assets in a single asset or a single asset class. The ATO is concerned that these funds may not have met their investment strategy requirements.

Approximately 10% of SMSFs own commercial property and often this commercial property is leased to a related party. There are a number of rules to follow to ensure the arrangement complies with the superannuation / tax laws.