SMSFAAA BRINGS INNOVATION EXPERTISE TO MEMBERS
WITH APPOINTMENT OF RON PHIPPS-ELLIS TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

SMSF AUDITOR INDEPENDENCE STRENGTHENED THROUGH TECHNOLOGY

Sydney, NSW, 1 September 2021—The SMSF Auditors Association of Australia Ltd (SMSFAAA) announced today the appointment of well-respected technologist Ron Phipps-Ellis to the Board of Directors as it embarks upon the next phase of strengthening the organisation.

Ron Phipps-Ellis, a trusted leader in redefining the way SMSF audits are performed, is well known for his focus on harnessing technology to improve audit processes and outcomes. In 2005, following a long career in audit, accounting and tax, he founded Evolv Super, a leading and innovative Australian SMSF audit business built around expertly developed, fully automated, integrated SMSF audit software that ensures high quality, time-saving, and cost-effective audits.

Upon his appointment, Ron commented, “The SMSF industry contributes substantially to our economy, and SMSF auditors play a key role in supporting compliance with SMSF industry legislation. Given the continued growth path of the industry, the opportunity to elevate the importance and profile of SMSF auditors is necessary and timely. Members benefit by being represented by a specialist professional body such as SMSFAAA, and the SMSF industry as a whole is better off too.”

He continued, “Growing an association like SMSFAAA requires a team of well-intentioned, motivated people. Based on my years of experience building a scaled SMSF audit business, it’s time to contribute my skills to furthering specialised education, support, networking, thought-leadership and other services that create real value for members.”

Since its establishment in 2018, SMSFAAA has played a significant role in maintaining the integrity and independence of SMSF auditors in Australia in an increasingly litigious environment. In particular, the Association supports its members by providing:

• A strong, collective voice of SMSF auditors to regulators
• A professional community through which industry concerns can be raised and discussed
• Expert SMSF knowledge and training that meets CPD requirements

To date, the SMSFAAA has made representations to the Treasury to ensure practical and ethical concerns over changes to auditor independence and SMSF audit-specific complexities are raised and attended to in accordance with Auditing Standards. The Association continues to represent and support ASIC approved SMSF auditors who contribute so much to the development and integrity of the superannuation sector.

In 2018, five Founding Directors created SMSFAAA with a collective vision around maintaining the integrity of the SMSF industry and supporting the SMSF auditors who audit it.

The Board has further expanded since to enhance diversity and expertise, with Ron Phipps-Ellis joining Directors, Lina De Marco, Ariful Haque, and Brian Roughley, alongside three of the original Founding Directors: Karen Stewart, Sam Marotta and Gino J Coiera.

Today, the Board represents over 100 years of SMSF audit expertise meaning strong professional support is always available to members and will continue to strengthen going forward.

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For further information, please contact Lina De Marco on 0404 003 670 or lina@ademus.com.au

If you’re an ASIC approved SMSF Auditor and would like to find out how SMSFAAA membership can support your professional outcomes, visit our website at www.smsfaaa.com.au