May 27, 2026 | Investment Property, Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF), Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF), Tax Planning
💡 The 2026 Budget didn’t change the SMSF property rules — but it made them significantly more attractive. Here’s why more investors are taking a serious look.
There are over 625,000 self-managed super funds in Australia, collectively holding more than $990 billion in assets. As the Budget makes established investment property less tax-effective for individual investors, the SMSF structure offers something the new rules can’t touch: a concessional tax environment built for the long term.
The Numbers at a Glance
SMSF rental income taxed at
15%
vs. up to 47% at individual marginal rates
CGT on assets held 12+ months
10%
vs. 30%+ minimum under new budget rules
CGT in pension phase
0%
within transfer balance cap ($2M for FY26)
SMSFs in Australia
625K+
holding $990B+ in total assets (ATO 2025)
The Tax Comparison is Compelling
TAX RATE COMPARISON — SMSF VS. INDIVIDUAL
Individual rental (top rate)
CGT new rules min (post-2027)
SMSF rental (accumulation phase)
CGT in SMSF (held 12+ months)
CGT in SMSF (pension phase)
Key takeaway: SMSF investors pay 15% tax on rental income vs. up to 47% individually — and just 10% CGT on gains vs. 30%+ under the new Budget rules.
*Within $2M transfer balance cap (FY26). General information only — not financial advice. Sanford Finance Pty Ltd — ACL 388372.
The Rules Haven’t Changed — But Your Opportunity Has
The Budget did not alter SMSF property investment rules. An SMSF can still purchase residential investment property using a Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangement (LRBA), provided the fund meets the sole purpose test, the property is not occupied by any member or related party, and the investment aligns with the fund’s documented strategy. What has changed is the relative attractiveness of the SMSF path — because the alternative just became significantly more expensive.
Who Is SMSF Property Right For?
SMSF property is worth considering if you are:
- A high-income earner with a long investment horizon
- A business owner looking to hold commercial property in your SMSF
- Someone with an existing super balance above $200,000–$300,000
- Comfortable with the compliance requirements and illiquidity of property as an asset class
- Planning for retirement and wanting to maximise tax-free income in pension phase
What You Need to Know Before You Start
SMSF lending is a specialist product. Not all lenders offer it, and those that do apply stricter criteria — typically requiring a larger deposit, evidence of fund liquidity, and a minimum balance of $200,000–$300,000. The loan is assessed on the fund’s income, not the member’s, and the property must be held in a separate bare trust until the loan is fully repaid.
Division 296, which introduces a 30% tax on earnings above $3 million in super, passed Parliament in March 2026 and takes effect from 1 July 2026. For most clients this threshold is not a concern — but for those with larger balances, it is worth discussing structuring options with your adviser.
How Sanford Finance Can Help
At Sanford Finance, we work with specialist SMSF lenders and can help you assess whether this strategy suits your situation, structure the lending correctly, and ensure your investment meets ATO compliance requirements from day one. Talk to us before you move.
This article provides general information only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Sanford Finance Pty Limited — Australian Credit Licence 388372. Always seek professional advice before acting.
May 27, 2026 | Economic News, Investment Property, Tax Planning
⚡ Time-sensitive: The grandfathering date is 12 May 2026. Properties purchased before that date are protected under the old rules. Speak to your Sanford Finance adviser before making any moves.
On Budget night — 12 May 2026 at 7:30pm — the goalposts shifted for Australian property investors. The changes announced by Treasurer Jim Chalmers will directly affect your tax position, your borrowing strategy, and potentially your retirement outcomes. Here is what changed, what stayed the same, and what you can still do before 1 July 2027 when the new rules take effect.
What Changed: Negative Gearing
From 1 July 2027, negative gearing will only be available on new residential builds. If you purchase an established investment property after Budget night, you will no longer be able to offset rental losses against your other income once the reforms commence. Properties purchased before 12 May 2026 are fully grandfathered — your existing portfolio is protected.
What Changed: Capital Gains Tax
The 50% CGT discount — which has allowed investors to halve their taxable capital gain on assets held more than 12 months — will be replaced by an inflation-indexed model with a minimum 30% tax on gains from 1 July 2027. For new builds, investors may choose between the 50% discount or the new arrangement. For established properties purchased after Budget night, the 50% discount will not apply to gains arising after 1 July 2027.
Before vs. After: At a Glance
| Policy Area |
Before Budget Night |
From 1 July 2027 |
| Negative gearing — established |
✓ Offset losses vs income |
✗ Abolished |
| Negative gearing — new builds |
✓ Available |
✓ Still available |
| CGT discount — established |
50% after 12 months |
Inflation-indexed + 30% min |
| CGT discount — new builds |
50% after 12 months |
Choose 50% or new model |
| Existing portfolio (pre-Budget) |
Current rules apply |
✓ Fully grandfathered |
| Commercial property |
Current rules apply |
✓ Appears unaffected |
The Real Dollar Impact: Tax on a $200,000 Capital Gain
EFFECTIVE TAX PAYABLE — $200,000 CAPITAL GAIN
Investor on 47% marginal tax rate, asset held 12+ months
Old rules
(50% CGT discount)
New rules (post-2027)
(30% minimum tax)
No discount
(full marginal rate)
Key takeaway: The new rules add over $13,000 in extra tax on a single $200,000 gain compared to the old 50% discount.
Illustrative only. General information — not financial advice. Sanford Finance Pty Ltd — ACL 388372.
For an investor on a 47% marginal tax rate selling an established property with a $200,000 capital gain held more than 12 months: under the old rules with the 50% discount, tax payable was $47,000. Under the new rules from 1 July 2027, the minimum tax payable rises to $60,000 or more — that is over $13,000 more going to the ATO on a single sale.
What This Means for Your Strategy
For investors with existing portfolios, the news is good — nothing changes. For those looking to grow, the calculus has shifted significantly. New builds now carry a structural tax advantage over established properties. Commercial property may emerge as an attractive alternative as it appears unaffected by the reforms. SMSF structures — which have their own concessional tax environment — also become considerably more compelling.
Before making any moves, speak with your Sanford Finance adviser. The interaction between these changes, your income, your existing holdings, and your loan structure is complex — and the right strategy will look different for every client.
This article provides general information only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Sanford Finance Pty Limited — Australian Credit Licence 388372. Always seek professional advice before acting.
Mar 12, 2025 | Sanford Team
He’s already a star in our eyes, but this week we got the incredible news that Nunzio Stasolla has been chosen as one of Mortgage Professional Australia’s Rising Stars for 2025. This prestigious recognition highlights emerging talent in the mortgage broking industry, celebrating individuals who have demonstrated exceptional results, dedication, and impact in their field.
Nunzio’s Journey so far
Nunzio didn’t start his career as a mortgage broker. Instead, he began in debt recovery, where he gained extensive experience in consumer, insurance and commercial recoveries and recognised a need to help consumers with their finances – from securing their first mortgage to reconsolidating debt that feels out of control.
With that new passion for financial service, Nunzio obtained a diploma in Finance & Mortgage Broking and transitioned into mortgage broking, bringing his diverse expertise to the Sanford Finance team to help clients navigate their financial journeys with confidence and clarity.
Nunzio is known for his empathetic nature, active listening and a deep commitment to understanding each client’s unique needs and circumstances. By building a bond with his clients through open and honest communication, Nunzio ensures his clients feel empowered and supported through every step of the process. His ultimate goal is to not only assist clients in securing their dream properties, but also to enhance their financial literacy by educating them along the way – and this is why we’re not surprised he’s been chosen as one of MPA’s Rising Stars 2025.
MPA Rising Stars: Recognising the Industry’s Brightest Young Professionals
The MPA Rising Stars list celebrates young professionals who are making a remarkable impact in the mortgage broking industry. After a rigorous selection process, Mortgage Professional Australia identifies 50 standout brokers each year who exemplify success, resilience and commitment to their profession.
Nunzio’s recognition in this group is a testament to his hard work, expertise, continued learning and unwavering dedication to his clients and the industry. Proudly sponsored by ING, the winners of MPA Rising Stars 2025 will be announced in the March issue of Mortgage Professional Australia magazine and we’re certain you may soon see a follow up article telling you about Nunzio’s win.
Just the Beginning
Nunzio’s Rising Stars award is just the beginning of an exciting career trajectory. With a passion for excellence and a commitment to continuous growth, we know Nunzio will continue to make an even greater impact in the years to come. The Sanford Finance team proudly celebrates his well-deserved recognition and look forward to seeing his continued success.
Well done, Nunzio!
Mar 11, 2025 | Property Market, Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF)
When it comes to managing a Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF), many trustees turn to their accountant for advice. However, whilst accountants play a valuable role in SMSF compliance and taxation, their ability to provide financial advice is significantly limited by regulatory restrictions.
So what can an accountant do (and not do) when it comes to the SMSF space – and where can you find the advice you’re looking for?
What Accountants Can Do for SMSFs
Accountants are allowed to provide factual information and general guidance on various SMSF matters, including:
- Establishment and Compliance
Helping trustees set up an SMSF and ensuring compliance with ATO regulations
- Tax Planning
Advising on the tax implications of contributions, withdrawals and investment income
- Investment Structures
Explaining different structures available for SMSF investments
- General Caps and Concessions
Providing information on contribution limits and tax concessions
- Trustee Structures
Outlining the differences between individual and corporate trustees
Additionally, accountants can help with trust deed reviews, ensuring that an SMSF trust deed remains up to date with legislative changes. Your accountant can also provide generic investment strategy templates, although they cannot tailor these strategies to individual client needs or provide personalised advice.
What Accountants Cannot Do for SMSFs
Whilst accountants are a trusted source of financial information, there are many areas where they are legally restricted from providing advice. These areas include:
- Investment Recommendations
Accountants can explain what assets an SMSF can invest in, but they cannot recommend specific investment products or strategies. If you’re considering property investment through your SMSF, you need guidance from a licensed SMSF adviser who can assess whether this strategy aligns with your financial goals.
- Borrowing Within an SMSF
Leveraging SMSF funds to purchase property involves complex borrowing arrangements, such as Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangements (LRBAs). Accountants cannot advise on the suitability of an LRBA or assist in structuring SMSF loans. This is where Sanford Finance can help, offering expert mortgage brokerage services, tailored to SMSF property investments.
- Tailored Contribution and Pension Strategies
Strategic contribution planning and pension commencement decisions require personalised advice – and accountants are only permitted to provide general information on contribution caps and pension eligibility. You will need a licensed SMSF adviser for advice on when and how to contribute or commence a pension.
- Assessing Financial Products and Estate Planning
Selecting the right financial products within an SMSF or making estate planning decisions requires licensed advice. Your accountant cannot advise on which superannuation product or investment option best suits your needs, nor can they provide estate planning recommendations.
How Sanford Finance can help with SMSF Property Investment
If you’re considering purchasing property through an SMSF, Sanford Finance can guide you through the process. Here’s how we can help:
- Expert Guidance on SMSF Borrowing
We specialise in helping SMSF trustees secure finance for property investments through Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangements (LRBAs).
Take the Next Step with Sanford Finance
If you’re considering purchasing property through your SMSF, our expert team is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your investment goals and secure the right financial strategy for your future.
Feb 3, 2025 | Investment Property, Property Market
If you’re a tenant or landlord in NSW, you may already know that big changes are coming to rental laws in 2025 – and some were already put in place late last year. These reforms aim to make renting fairer, providing tenants with more security whilst providing landlords with clear guidelines to follow.
In October 2024, the NSW Parliament passed the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024, which introduced significant updates to how rental agreements will work – but we’ve done the hard work of reading through the act and picked out the bits you need to know:
What has already changed (from October 31, 2024)
- No more extra fees at the start of a tenancy
Tenants can no longer be charged fees for background checks or preparing tenancy agreements.
- Rent increases limited to once per year
Previously this rule only applied to periodic leases and fixed-term leases longer than two years. Now all rental agreements, regardless of length or type, can only have one rent increase per year.
What changes will be made to rental laws in 2025
- Ending ‘no grounds’ evictions
Landlords will now require a valid reason to terminate a lease, whether it’s a periodic or fixed term. Landlords must provide evidence with termination notices to support their claims, with penalties applying if the given reason is not genuine.
Acceptable reasons include:
- The property is being sold
- Major repairs or renovations require the home to be vacant
- The landlord or their family intends to move in
- The tenant has breached their lease agreement
- More notice required for fixed-term leases ending
Tenants will now receive more time to find a new home at the end of their lease. Minimum required notice periods are now:
- 60 days notice for leases of six months or less
- 90 days notice for leases longer than six months
- Easier rules for keeping pets
Tenants will have a clearer and fairer process for keeping pets in rental properties, with key changes including:
- Tenants can apply to keep a pet and landlords can only refuse for specific reasons
- Landlords must respond to pet requests within 21 days, or a pet is automatically approved
- Landlords cannot increase rent or require extra bond as a condition of allowing a pet
- Strata by-laws that ban all pets will now be invalid under the new rules
- Free and convenient ways to pay rent
Landlords and agents must offer tenants at least one electronic payment method, such as bank transfer or BPAY, without extra fees. Tenants cannot be forced to use a specific payment service or app that charges fees unless they agree to it.
- Water efficiency requirements (from 23 March 2025)
If landlords want to charge tenants for water usage, properties must meet stricter water efficiency standards. The main change is that toilets must be dual flush with at least a 3-star WELS rating, in addition to existing water-saving requirements
How will these changes be enforced?
To ensure compliance to the new laws, NSW Fair Trading has set up a new Rental Taskforce with dedicated inspectors and compliance officers. Any landlord who fails to follow the new laws can be reported and may face penalties.
How can I keep up with changes to rental laws?
With rental laws evolving, it’s important you keep up with the changes – particularly if you are a landlord. The easiest way is to sign up for the NSW Fair Trading Property Matters Newsletter or visiting the Rental Commissioner Website.
Thinking about investing in property? We can help
If you’re thinking about investing in property, our team are here to help. Together we’ll look at all the potential options, develop a strategy, secure finance and help you achieve your goals. Contact us today to get started.
