When you start the SMSF setup process, one of the first tasks is choosing names for your SMSF, trustee company, and bare trust. It might sound simple, but getting it right from the start can save time, prevent delays, and make your fund look more professional.
As a SMSF accountant, we often see people overlook this step — or spend far too long deciding! Let’s walk through what works best, what to avoid, and how to make the process both practical and a bit fun.
Naming Your SMSF
Your SMSF name will appear on official records, bank accounts, investment documents, and correspondence with the ATO. It doesn’t have to sound overly corporate — most people prefer something personal and easy to identify.
A good starting point is to include words like Super, Superfund, or SMSF in the name. This makes it clear to everyone what the entity is, especially when dealing with banks or financial institutions.
Examples:
- “The Oakridge Super Fund”
- “Bright Future SMSF”
- “Thompson Family Super”
When completing your SMSF setup, avoid choosing overly common names such as “Smith Superfund.” The ATO often performs manual checks on ABN applications with duplicate or similar names, which can delay your registration.
Instead, aim for something distinctive or personal. Some of the more creative (and funny) fund names we’ve come across include:
- “Superheroes Super Fund”
- “Rich Boy Superannuation Fund”
- “Coffee n Cake Retirement Fund”
- “Not Funny Ha Ha Superannuation Fund”
- “Retire In Style Superannuation Fund”
Source: https://superfundlookup.gov.au/
While these bring a smile, they also serve a purpose, unique names make your fund easy to identify and avoid unnecessary admin delays.
Naming the Trustee Company
If you have a corporate trustee, you’ll also need to register a trustee company with ASIC. Before doing so, check that the name is available using the ASIC company name availability search.
It’s smart to keep your trustee company name similar to your SMSF name. For instance:
- “Oakridge Super Pty Ltd” for “The Oakridge Super Fund”
- “Bright Future SMSF Pty Ltd” for “Bright Future SMSF”
Adding Super or SMSF in the company name helps make the connection clear and simplifies communication with your bank, accountant, or auditor.
We’ve seen some quirky trustee company names too, like “Trust Me Pty Ltd” or “Money Grows Here Pty Ltd.” While they’re amusing, remember this is a legal entity, so it’s best to strike a balance between creativity and professionalism.
You can check on ASIC website for more information on available names.
Naming Your Bare Trust
If your SMSF invests in property through limited recourse borrowing, you’ll also need to establish a bare trust (sometimes called a holding trust). The bare trust holds the property until the loan is paid off, and it must have its own name.
The simplest way to name a bare trust is to link it with your SMSF or property details. For example:
- “Oakridge Super Property Trust”
- “123 Green Street Property Trust”
Using the SMSF name or property address keeps it clear and compliant, which makes the setup process straightforward for your SMSF accountant and bank.
Keep It Simple and Avoid Common Mistakes
Before locking in your names, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Check availability early: Make sure your chosen company name is available on ASIC before registration.
- Be distinctive: Avoid overly generic names to reduce the risk of manual review delays by the ATO.
- Stay consistent: Align your SMSF, trustee company, and bare trust names for easier identification.
- Think long-term: Pick names you’ll still be comfortable with decades down the track.
Final Thoughts
Naming your SMSF, trustee company, and bare trust might seem like a small detail in the SMSF setup process, but it can make a real difference. A clear, well-chosen name helps avoid administrative issues, keeps things professional, and gives your fund its own identity.
So whether you go for something classic like “Thompson Family Super” or fun like “The Never Retiring Fund,” choose names that reflect your personality and your goals for the future.
If you’re unsure where to start, your SMSF accountant can guide you through the process and help ensure your fund is registered smoothly with the ATO and ASIC.
