A growing number of Australians are taking retirement plans into their own hands through self-managed super funds (SMSFs).

According to the ATO, as of mid-2025, there were approximately 653,000 SMSFs holding $1.05 trillion in assets. Over the last five years, the number of SMSFs grew by 15 per cent, and at 30 June 2025, the median age of all SMSF members was 62 years old.

Liberty group manager – commercial, Matt Heinnen, says this scale and demographic profile underline why SMSF lending remains relevant for
brokers.

“Residential and commercial property have long been seen as stable long-term investments. Many Australians with SMSFs are considering property as part of their strategy, and that’s where brokers who understand the SMSF journey can really add value,” Heinnen says.

Broker opportunity in a complex market

As SMSF numbers continue to rise, brokers are encountering more clients seeking assistance with financing property acquisitions through super, including borrowers with non-standard income or more complex fund structures.

“Brokers who understand lending requirements, cash flow dynamics and fund structures are better placed to deliver the right lending outcome for clients,” Heinnen says.

A clear view of a client’s current financial position is central to this process. Effective SMSF lending requires careful information gathering around contributions, rental income, and existing liabilities, alongside collaboration between the broker, lender, and the client’s professional advisers where appropriate.

Understanding customer needs

Heinnen says understanding each customer’s unique circumstances is a key part of supporting SMSF property investment.

“No two SMSFs are the same, so it’s important to take the time to really understand what the customer is working towards and find a solution that fits,” Heinnen explains.

“We continue to innovate in this space, whether that’s offering flexible ways to provide information or options across a wider range of security types, so more Australians have opportunity to grow their nest egg.”

This includes ongoing refinements to Liberty’s SuperCredit product, which supports established SMSFs investing in residential or commercial property, with LVRs up to 90 per cent and no minimum contribution requirements.

“We’re proud to be a trusted partner for brokers and customers seeking free-thinking SMSF lending solutions,” Heinnen says.

He adds that close collaboration between brokers and Liberty’s experienced BDMs plays an important role in navigating SMSF lending.

“Our BDMs are here to help brokers work through scenarios and provide guidance, especially when a deal is more complex or it’s their first SMSF transaction,” Heinnen says.

A long-term outlook

Investment strategies, including for retirement, require a long-term outlook. Heinnen says many investors are recognising the benefits of property investment within their SMSFs, especially as property remains a trusted investment.

“With the current global and industry environments, Australians are looking for tangible assets that are suitable for their individual goals and needs,” Heinnen says.

“Brokers play an important role in helping borrowers explore options suited to their individual circumstances, with Liberty supporting those brokers through tailored solutions.”

Liberty BDMs work closely with brokers, regardless of their experience with SMSF lending, to help navigate structure and scenario based questions.