Is an SMSF Right For You? Why more Gen Z are taking control of their super

Is an SMSF right for you? Why more Gen Z are taking control of their super

When you think of a self managed super fund (SMSF), you might picture your parents or even your grandparents. But the reality is that more and more young Australians – including Gen Z – are stepping in earlier.

Why? Because what matters to you is different. You care about freedom, flexibility, and making sure your money reflects your values. You’ve grown up digital-first, with side hustles, small business opportunities, and an awareness that waiting until retirement to “get serious” about super doesn’t feel right.

According to the ATO, over 1.1 million Australians are now SMSF members, with funds holding more than $900 billion in assets. While most trustees are still in their 40s and 50s, younger members are stepping up fast. This shift is reshaping the future of SMSFs – and opening up new possibilities for how your generation builds wealth – and it’s only the beginning.

What’s driving younger Australians into SMSFs?

Let’s be real… the reasons you might look at an SMSF are likely different from older generations. For Gen Z, it often comes down to:

• Freedom and flexibility: you’ve grown up in a world of choice, and you want the same for your super.

• Owning your own business: if you run one, your SMSF could even buy your commercial property.

• Building wealth earlier: whether through shares, crypto, or property, you want more say in how your savings grow.

• Gig economy lifestyles: juggling side hustles or freelance work often means less traditional employer super, so an SMSF gives you more control and visibility over where your contributions go.

The SMSF Association has found that first-time trustees are trending younger, with many now in their 30s instead of waiting until mid-career.

What investments matter to you?

If you’re thinking about an SMSF, here’s what younger trustees are focusing on:

• Shares and ETFs: affordable, long-term growth.

• Commercial property: especially for those running their own businesses.

• Ethical and sustainable options: because how you invest should align with what you believe in.

• Alternative assets: some explore alternative assets, such as managed crypto funds (always within compliance rules).

A Deloitte survey shows that ethics and environmental impact are driving investment choices for younger generations – and that’s flowing into SMSF strategies too. 

However, your generation is smart about risk. While you may be open to new sectors, you’re also balancing them with more stable options like ETFs and Australian shares.

Tech + values = your kind of super

If you’re digital-first, you’ll expect your super to be too. That’s where SMSFs fit:

• Online tools make managing compliance easier.

• Cybersecurity focus keeps your funds safer.

• Values-led investing means your money supports businesses and causes that matter to you.

This mix is reshaping SMSFs, creating portfolios that look very different from those of older generations, one that feels much closer to the way you already live and work.

Where Gen Z fits into the bigger SMSF picture

Younger trustees are bringing new energy, fresh ideas, and higher expectations. Here’s what the industry is already seeing with this generational shift:

• Continued growth: Despite tighter regulations, SMSFs remain the fastest-growing superannuation sector, and younger trustees are a big reason why.

• Changing investment styles: Portfolios are looking more diverse and aligned with personal values. Ethical, digital, and tech-aligned investments are becoming more common.

• Innovation across services: From admin to auditing, providers are updating systems to keep up with your digital expectations.

• A need for education: SMSFs come with strict compliance rules. First-time trustees need support to avoid costly mistakes and ensure they’re set up for long-term success.

It’s not just about superannuation anymore. It’s about creating a system that works the way you do – flexible, digital, and values-driven.

Ready to take control?

At Andromedae, we believe the future of SMSFs is bright, and it’s being driven by younger Australians like you. If you’re curious about how an SMSF could give you more control over your money – and the confidence that your investments reflect your goals – the right support makes all the difference.

We take care of the compliance, audits and annual returns, so you can focus on building a future that feels like yours.

If you've decided to set up a SMSF, get in touch with our team today.

Disclaimer: Andromedae and its staff do not provide financial advice on whether an SMSF is right for you. We also do not provide advice on what investments your SMSF should undertake. Our role is to manage the administration and compliance of your SMSF. Please seek advice from your own financial professionals to determine what is best for your personal circumstances. All content in this blog is provided as general information only.