The SMSF Association welcomes Ms Sarah Court as the next Chair of the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), recognising the significance of this appointment for the self-managed superannuation (SMSF) sector.
SMSF Association CEO, Peter Burgess said Ms Court is widely respected across the superannuation and financial services sectors.
As Deputy Chair, Ms Court strengthened ASIC’s enforcement and investigative capabilities, contributing to some of its strongest enforcement outcomes on record. Mr Burgess said this focus is critical for SMSFs, particularly in light of recent high-profile investment failures affecting retail investors’ superannuation savings.
“ASIC’s investigations into schemes such as Shield and First Guardian highlight the need for a strong, well-resourced regulator to detect misconduct early and deter exploitation of Australians’ retirement savings,” he said.
“Effective enforcement is essential to maintaining confidence in the superannuation system, including the SMSF sector.”
Mr Burgess said Ms Court’s appointment as the first woman to lead ASIC in its 35-year history is also a significant milestone for Australia’s financial regulatory framework.
“Her appointment brings continuity, experience and leadership at a time when regulatory vigilance has never been more important for the SMSF sector and the broader financial system.”
The SMSF Association also acknowledges the contribution of outgoing ASIC Chair Joseph Longo and thanks him for his service ahead of his departure in May 2026.