New South Wales-based self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF) auditor, Kathleen Whittle has been disqualified by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) after breaching auditor independence requirements.
ASIC found that Whittle breached the auditor independence requirements of APES 110 Code of Ethics by performing audit duties for immediate family and friends.
Commenting on Whittle’s disqualification, ASIC commissioner, John Price said: “ASIC will continue to take action where the conduct of SMSF auditors is inadequate".
“SMSF auditors play a fundamental role in promoting confidence in the SMSF sector so it is crucial that they adhere to ethical and professional standards," he said.
Information which pertained to Whittle’s conduct was referred to ASIC by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
The future of superannuation policy remains uncertain, with further reforms potentially on the horizon as the Albanese government seeks to curb the use of superannuation as a bequest vehicle.
Superannuation funds will have two options for charging fees for the advice provided by the new class of adviser.
The proposed reforms have been described as a key step towards delivering better products and retirement experiences for members, with many noting financial advice remains the “urgent missing piece” of the puzzle.
APRA’s latest data has revealed that superannuation funds spent $1.3 billion on advice fees, with the vast majority sent to external financial advisers.