SMSF Quarterly Statistics – September 2025: What the Latest Numbers Mean for Trustees

The ATO Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) Quarterly Statistical Report for September 2025 has been released, offering a clear snapshot of the current SMSF landscape and how trustees across Australia are managing their superannuation.

The data confirms that SMSFs remain a cornerstone of Australia’s retirement system, particularly for established investors seeking control, flexibility and long-term planning certainty.

Size of the SMSF Sector

As at September 2025, the SMSF sector continues to grow steadily:

• 661,384 SMSFs are currently operating

• 1,221,821 members are invested through SMSFs

• SMSFs collectively hold an estimated $1.07 trillion in assets

These figures reinforce the ongoing confidence Australians place in the SMSF structure, despite ongoing regulatory and market changes.

Where SMSFs Are Investing

The report also highlights how SMSF trustees are allocating their capital. By total value, the most commonly held asset classes are:

• Listed shares, making up 28% of total SMSF assets

• Cash and term deposits, representing 16% of total assets

This mix reflects a balance between growth-oriented investments and capital preservation, particularly in an environment of economic uncertainty and higher interest rates.

SMSF Member Profile

The demographic data remains consistent with long-term trends:

• 53% of SMSF members are male, with 47% female

• 85% of members are aged 45 and over

This highlights that SMSFs continue to be most attractive to individuals in mid-to-late career stages, where super balances are larger and strategic planning becomes more important.

What Else the Report Covers

Beyond the headline figures, the full report provides useful insight into:

• SMSF fund and member demographics

• Detailed estimates of SMSF asset holdings

• Annual money flows, including rollovers into and out of SMSFs and fund wind-ups

For trustees and advisers, this data is valuable when reviewing fund strategy, asset allocation and long-term sustainability.

Why These Statistics Matter

SMSF trustees are required to make informed decisions that align with their investment strategy, risk profile and retirement goals. Understanding how your fund compares to broader SMSF trends can assist with:

• Reviewing investment diversification

• Assessing liquidity and cash flow needs

• Ensuring the SMSF remains appropriate as circumstances change

At iCare Super, we regularly use ATO SMSF data to help trustees stay informed, compliant and confident in their decisions.

If you would like to discuss how these trends apply to your SMSF, or whether your fund structure and investments remain suitable, professional advice can make a meaningful difference.