Self-Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF) program
Earn FPA and SPAA accredited CPD points. Find out how.
Who should enrol
This program is an introduction to the fundamentals of providing advice on SMSF and is relevant to:
- planners/advisers
- administrators
- auditors
- trustees
- accountants
- professionals seeking to specialise in SMSF
Entry requirements
To advise on self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) you must be RG146 compliant to provide personal advice in superannuation.
If you are currently not see Kaplan's Tier 1 compliance training for further information.
Program outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, you should be able to:
- Explain the key legislative, regulatory and administrative requirements of SMSF
- Explain the importance of trust deeds
- Explain the responsibilities of trustees
- Explain the estate planning characteristics of SMSFs
- Explain how pensions can be paid from complying superannuation funds
- Discuss the taxation issues relevant to SMSF
- Identify and apply appropriate strategies available to SMSF trustees
Industry recognition^
Financial Planning Association (FPA)
Accreditation for up to 54 points credit of continuing professional development for students who successfully complete this program from 28 May 2010 onwards:
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Self-study: 22.25 CPD points (Professional Dimensions: Capability & Critical Thinking)
-
Workshop component: 31.75 points (Professional Dimensions: Capability & Critical Thinking)
-
Combined: 54 points (Professional Dimensions: Capability & Critical Thinking)
SMSF Professionals' Association of Australia (SPAA)
Recognition for continuing professional development points towards SPAA membership:
- Self-study: 56 points
Recognition & exemptions
You may be entitled to gain an exemption into this qualification based on your previous study, work experience or a combination of both. To do this you need to submit evidence that demonstrates you have already met the requirements of the subject through other means, including:
Refer to the Recognition Policy for further information.
Program structure
The program is made up of eight modules, including:
- Introduction to SMSFs
- Trustee responsibilities
- Investment restrictions
- Taxation issues
- Estate planning
- Paying pension benefits from an SMSF
- Member accounts
- Strategies and financial planning opportunities
Delivery
This program is delivered via self-study with optional workshops if you prefer a face-to-face learning environment. You will also have access to My Kaplan, an online learning centre, for the duration of your studies.
This program self-contained with all the materials and resources needed to complete the program easily by self-study. The program can be commenced in the self-study mode at any time.
Assessment
To complete the program, you must successfully complete the:
- Project, and
- Exam
If you are unsuccessful in an assessment (Not yet competent), you will have the opportunity to:
-
Resit the exam (twice)
-
Resubmit the project (once), please see the Assessment Policy for further details
Duration & Timeframes
A typical study commitment is 60 hours depending on your capacity for study.
Projects and first-sit exams must be completed no later than 12 weeks from enrolment. Should you be deemed ‘Not yet competent’ you will be given an additional 4 weeks to resubmit your project or resit your exam.
If you are not able to complete your studies within this time period you may extend your studies by 6 weeks (fees apply).
Fees*
- Self-study - $580
Refer to fees document for additional study related fees.
Further information & enrolment
Call 1300 662 203
Enrol online
View policies
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^ Not available to students who are awarded this program via the RPL process.
* No GST is applicable. Fees valid until 31 December 2013.

