stephen jones

The government’s position on what to do with the Safe Harbour Steps is no longer clear, but the chances of seeing it supplanted by the existing Code of Ethics are slim according to the FAAA’s policy chief Phil Anderson.

Even with a lightened agenda, the government failed to finish its homework and instead delivered only a portion of the first tranche of advice reforms. It’s a poor return, and at this rate the advice review could be a ten-year project.

Consumers will be bamboozled by the government’s plan to divide advisers into “experienced” and “relevant” camps, the association explained. That, and the need for a sunset clause, mean the current proposal needs work.

The advice review lead had said she wouldn’t comment on the recommendations while the government pondered its response. But with the consultation dragging on, she urged the government to get it done and let ASIC do the refinement.

Advisers can practice without a relevant degree for around 30 years according to the draft proposal. They do need a clean record, however – but only up to the end of 2021.

Speaking at the SMSF Association’s National Conference, the assistant treasurer called out “modern-day Edmund Hillarys” seeking to raid Australia’s “Mount Everest of superannuation” as he pressed the need for an objective for super that prioritises preservation.

Superannuation tax breaks will cost the government nearly $53 billion this year, nearly matching the cost of the entire age pension program, according to a new analysis that says major reform is needed. Meanwhile, the government has signalled a tightening of super legislation.

In a letter released by the group Thursday it said “urgent action is needed”, and called the government’s impending response a “rare opportunity to deliver affordable and accessible advice to consumers”.

Treasury has released for public consultation draft legislation aimed at closing a tax loophole for off-market share buybacks, prompting renewed fears over the future of franking credits despite assurances that mum-and-dad investors will not be affected.

The financial services minister is looking at tackling scammers at the source: “Does our barista down the corner really need my email address, my bank details, my name and my mobile phone number just to buy a cup of coffee?”