Question 1

How to setup an SMSF in Australia?

Accepted Answer

To set up an SMSF you choose a trustee structure (corporate or individual), establish the fund with a trust deed, register for an ABN and TFN with the ATO, register the corporate trustee with ASIC if applicable, prepare an investment strategy, and open an SMSF bank account and broker account. easySMSF handles every step online — you just answer a short questionnaire and sign electronically.

Question 2

How long does SMSF setup take?

Accepted Answer

Most easySMSF setups complete within 1–3 weeks. The trust deed and ASIC registration are usually done within a few business days; the ATO ABN/TFN registration is the longest single step (typically 1–2 weeks).

Question 3

Are SMSF setup costs tax deductible?

Accepted Answer

SMSF establishment costs are generally a capital expense and are not deductible to the fund itself. They can usually be reimbursed from the SMSF once it has funds, or treated as a personal contribution by a member. Always check with a registered tax agent for your specific situation.

Question 4

How much does SMSF setup cost?

Accepted Answer

Typical SMSF setup costs range from around $700 with individual trustees to roughly $1,500+ with a special-purpose corporate trustee (which carries an ASIC registration fee). easySMSF setup fees are fixed and shown upfront — see the pricing page or our SMSF setup cost guide for a detailed breakdown.

Question 5

Do I need a minimum balance to set up an SMSF?

Accepted Answer

There's no legal minimum, but the ATO and ASIC suggest a starting balance of around $200,000+ to make an SMSF cost-effective compared to industry funds. Use our fee calculator to compare your situation.

Question 6

Corporate trustee or individual trustees — which should I choose at setup?

Accepted Answer

For most members a corporate trustee is worth the higher upfront setup cost. It provides cleaner asset separation, easier member changes over time, and lower penalty exposure if the ATO ever issues administrative penalties.

SMSF setup in Australia —
fixed-fee, fully online

SMSF setup options

Special Purpose Corporate Trustee

Individual Trustees

Not sure which is right?

SMSF setup FAQ

SMSF setup in Australia —fixed-fee, fully online