SMSFA appoints head of professional standards

The Self-Managed Super Fund Association (SMSFA) has appointed Keddie Waller as the head of professional standards.

In her the role, Waller will lead the association's professional standards framework, with responsibility for accreditation, continuing professional development (CPD), professional conduct and stakeholder engagement.

SMSFA chief executive Peter Burgess said: "Professional standards are fundamental to maintaining trust and confidence in the SMSF sector and Waller's expertise will help us ensure our members have the capability, support and professional framework they need to meet the highest standards of competence, conduct and ethics."

Waller will play a key role in strengthening member capability, promoting a culture of professionalism and ethical practice and safeguarding the integrity and reputation of the SMSF profession.

The role will also support the association's broader strategic objectives by ensuring its professional standards framework continues to evolve in line with the needs and expectations of members, regulators and the wider industry.

The government is strengthening protections for the SMSF sector, with assistant treasurer Daniel Mulino recently announcing reform that would require mandatory trustee education prior to SMSF registration, supporting industry-led initiatives to uplift standards across the sector, as well as requiring SMSFs to hold uniquely identifiable bank accounts.

"Waller's role will be critical as we work with industry and other stakeholders to ensure the frameworks governing the sector remain robust, fit for purpose and responsive to change, while equipping SMSF professionals with the capability to deliver the highest standards for their clients," Burgess said.

Waller previously held a part-time role as policy manager at the SMSFA while also serving as head of public practice and SME at CPA Australia. She brings experience across the financial planning and accounting industries.

Previously she also worked with the Accounting Professional & Ethical Standards Board (APESB) in her policy roles with CPA Australia and served as their technical representative on the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) Small and Medium Practices Advisory Group.