As a precursor to what will be another spectacular event, sit down with the SMSF Association and get a taste of the conversation ahead of their 2026 National Conference next February.
SMSF Association’s CEO Peter Burgess, their technical manager Mary Simmons and policy manager Keddie Waller review 2025 and take a look at upcoming legislative changes and their potential to impact the industry.
Attendees not only gain foresight into what challenges lie ahead, but also understand how the SMSF Association is advocating for the industry’s interests.
Interested in hearing more from leading voices in the SMSF sector? Register for the SMSF Association’s 2026 National Conference next February. Find out more.
Meet the panellists:
Peter Burgess
CEO, SMSF Association
Peter Burgess is the chief executive of the SMSF Association. Prior to his appointment as CEO, Peter held the position of deputy CEO/director of policy and education with the industry body and is a previous association board member.
With over 30 years of industry experience, Peter is recognised as an authority on SMSF matters and government policy design. He is a widely published author and media commentator on SMSFs and is regularly sought for comment on the latest policy and sector developments. Through his contribution to the development of SMSF education standards, his government advocacy work and his commitment to professionalism and thought leadership, he has dedicated much of his career to improving SMSF advice competency standards and the vibrancy and credibility of the sector.
Peter holds an MBA from the University of Adelaide, an economics degree and postgraduate qualifications in finance. In 2016, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the SMSF sector, he was awarded the SMSF Association’s Chairman’s Award. In June 2021, he achieved Fellow Member status with the association, recognising his significant commitment, leadership and contribution to both the organisation and the SMSF sector.
Mary Simmons
Technical Manager, SMSF Association
With over 25 years experience in the superannuation industry as a technical specialist, focusing primarily on SMSFs, Mary has an in-depth, expert knowledge of the industry.
With diverse roles spreading across mid-tier to large accounting firms, large and boutique financial service providers and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), Mary offers an all-round understanding of the SMSF industry. Mary has a multifaceted perspective of the SMSF industry, including that of Government, a professional advisor and trustee/member.
Mary is an accredited SMSF Specialist Advisor™ and as an author and presenter of SMSF specialist content over the years, she draws satisfaction on conveying complex, technical matters into clear concepts with practical application to make a real difference in improving the overall professional standards in the sector.
Keddie Waller
Policy Manager, SMSF Association
Keddie Waller is a Policy Manager at the SMSF Association. Keddie is highly respected in the financial planning and accounting industries, having spent many years with CPA Australia, including most recently as the Senior Manager for Public Practice, Financial Planning & Ethics Policy.
Waller, has a Master of Financial Planning from Deakin University and a Diploma in Financial Planning from the Financial Advice Association Australia, brings a wealth of experience as a seasoned policy manager and accomplished submission writer to the Association.
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