Question 1

How much does it cost to set up an SMSF in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Typical SMSF setup costs in Australia range from around $700 for individual trustees to roughly $1,500–$2,000 once you add a special-purpose corporate trustee company (which carries an ASIC registration fee). easySMSF offers a fixed setup fee with no hidden extras — see the pricing page for current rates.

Question 2

What's included in the SMSF setup cost?

Accepted Answer

A complete easySMSF setup includes the trust deed and PDS, ATO registrations (TFN, ABN, GST where relevant), ASIC registration of the corporate trustee (if you choose one), preparation of the investment strategy, and assistance opening the SMSF bank account and broker account.

Question 3

Are SMSF setup costs tax deductible?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 4

Is a corporate trustee worth the extra setup cost?

Accepted Answer

For most members, yes. A corporate trustee provides cleaner asset separation, easier member changes, and lower penalty exposure if the ATO ever issues administrative penalties. The extra one-off setup cost is typically recovered the first time members change.

Question 5

Are there ongoing fees as well?

Accepted Answer

Yes — every SMSF has annual accounting, tax and audit costs, plus the ATO supervisory levy. easySMSF charges a fixed monthly administration fee that includes the independent audit.

How much does it cost to set up an SMSF in Australia?

Individual trustees

Corporate trustee

What's not included

What an SMSF setup actually includes

SMSF setup cost FAQ

Ready to set up your SMSF?