A common question at present, is 'Can I buy a property for my children using my super?

To date, the answer has been a firm 'no'. One of the key rules of running an SMSF is that a 'related party' can't lease a residential property fund the trustees.

In an SMSF first, Assetora's Property Sub-Fund solution introduces an innovative and compliant approach, simplifying how SMSFs can access property, while increasing flexibility and control.

What is the Assetora SMSF Property Sub-Fund?

The Assetora model allows an SMSF to invest in property through a ring-fenced sub-fund structure, rather than owning the property directly.

Key features include:

• No bare trust required

• No traditional SMSF loan structure

• Ability to co-invest with related parties

• Ability to lease to related parties

• Access to land and house packages

• Institutional-grade custody via Perpetual Trustees

• A $1 unit structure for precise ownership allocation

This creates a more streamlined framework for SMSF property investment.

How the structure works

The process is designed to be straightforward:

1. The SMSF establishes an Assetora account

2. Funds are transferred into a central cash pool

3. A bespoke property sub-fund is created

4. The sub-fund (not the SMSF) may borrow if required

5. The property is held in custody

6. The SMSF and related parties invest by purchasing units

Each unit represents fractional ownership in the underlying property.

Why this matters for families

This is where the conversation becomes more meaningful. Many parents today are asking:

“How can I help my children enter the property market?”

With affordability becoming a major barrier, family-supported strategies are becoming more common.

The Assetora structure introduces a framework that may allow:

• Shared ownership between SMSFs and related parties

• Earlier access to property for younger generations

• More strategic intergenerational wealth planning

It shifts the conversation from individual investing to collaborative wealth building.

The SMSF landscape is evolving. Trustees are increasingly looking for:

• Simpler compliance structures

• Greater flexibility in investment options

• Strategies that align with real-world challenges

This model reflects that shift.

It acknowledges that traditional structures may not always meet the needs of modern investors - particularly when family dynamics and affordability challenges are involved.

Important considerations

While this structure offers a new way of thinking, it is not suitable for everyone.

SMSFs involve:

• Ongoing compliance obligations

• Investment risk

• Long-term strategic planning

Any decision involving SMSF property should be made with appropriate professional advice, taking into account your personal circumstances and objectives.

Final thoughts: A smarter way forward?

The Australian property market may not become more accessible overnight.

But the way we approach it can change.

For those willing to explore new structures and strategies, there may be opportunities to:

• Reduce complexity

• Increase flexibility

• Support the next generation

Because ultimately, the question is no longer just:

“How do I invest?”

It’s:

“How do I create opportunity - not just for myself, but for my family?”