Superannuation & SMSF Advice in Sutherland Shire

James Hayes with his dog

Helping locals across the Sutherland Shire and Greater Sydney make sense of super by explaining the options, mapping out strategies, and showing how today’s decisions affect tomorrow’s retirement income.

Book Your Free 15-Minute Call
Click to Call

Not Sure Where to Start with Super?

Superannuation is one of the biggest assets most Australians will ever own, but for many, it’s also the most confusing. Rules change, statements pile up, and people often don’t look at their fund seriously until retirement is only a few years away. One sitting with me will make everything super-related lucid.

What Super-Specific Services Do I Offer?

Superannuation covers a lot of ground, from consolidating old accounts to setting up an SMSF. These are the areas I most often guide clients through:

  • Stop paying duplicate fees and insurance premiums across multiple accounts by bringing them together into one fund.

  • Understand concessional and non-concessional caps, and how to use them to reduce tax while growing your balance.

  • Know the exact rules on when and how you can draw down your super without becoming subject to penalties.

  • Get advice on whether a self-managed super fund suits your goals, obligations, and appetite for responsibility.

  • See how shares, ETFs, and even property can fit inside your fund upon concretising your retirement goals.

  • Turn super into an income stream that supports the lifestyle you envision while remaining tax-effective.

Book Your Free 15-Minute Call
Click to Call

Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) Advice

Some clients want more control over investments, flexibility with property, or family succession planning. An SMSF can deliver those, but it also comes with strict obligations.

  • Guidance on eligibility, setup costs, and annual compliance so you start on solid ground.

  • Rules around buying property, including limits on residential, commercial, and Airbnb-style arrangements.

  • Strategies for pooling assets, handling contributions, and managing succession when one member leaves or passes away.

  • Shares, ETFs, gold, and even cryptocurrency explained with clarity on what’s allowed and what’s not.

  • Support with annual reporting, tax returns, and staying compliant with ATO requirements.

Book Your Free 15-Minute Call
Click to Call

Why Do Clients Choose Me for Super Advice?

James Hayes Headshot

Choosing an advisor should be based on whether they’ve handled situations like yours and can explain the rules in a way that makes sense. Here’s what my clients value most when it comes to superannuation advice:

  • I’ve guided hundreds of clients through superannuation and SMSF decisions across different life stages.

  • I break down contribution caps, tax rules, and pension options so you’re never left guessing.

  • I’m not aligned with banks or product providers, so my recommendations are made only in your best interests.

  • Super rules change, and so does life. I check in regularly to keep your super strategy stable and sustainable.

Book Your Free 15-Minute Call
Click to Call

Client Experiences

Nothing speaks louder than the experiences of people who’ve sat where you’re sitting now.

  • I was attracted to James's business by the online referees and comments and have since been very happy with the choice. James has been very patient and professional in rebuilding my superannuation portfolio and the results are pleasing. I very much appreciate his depth of knowledge and his personal skills.

    Geoffrey Todd

  • We have found dealing with James a worthwhile experience as he listens to what you require and that investments are reviewed and information to us is clear. We found James helped our transition into retirement an easy experience and very grateful for his expertise. 5 stars all the way !!

    Craig Pullen

  • James was incredibly helpful and prompt in his responses. Very accurate in the analysis of the real estate market and my personal, financial circumstances. In just a few hours we understood the best-case scenario, in my situation, and he guided me towards positive and reassuring final decisions to be made. He really placed my personal and financial needs first and we went from there. I really appreciated the honesty in his judgment and of course his valuable knowledge.

    Marta Lentisco

  • I have referred James to other colleagues as I find him to be very open and honest. He understands my husband's and my needs and is always on top of everything. He has great knowledge of superannuation and financial matters. James is always a pleasure to deal with, and we highly recommend his services.

    Jenelle Edwards

  • Having been referred to James by a colleague, I found his industry knowledge exceptional. His approach to my financial plan was holistic as he took consideration of what was happening in my life with a short to medium set up. James is also a great people person and very personable whilst maintaining strong professionalism. I can thoroughly recommend James Hayes without hesitation.

    Robert Stewart

  • I contacted James for advice with my superannuation policies, he put my mind at rest from the first phone conversation, I appreciated his support and advice in making a decision. No attempt was made to pin me down, allowing me time to consider my options. When a date was made to call me back, he did. He continues to stay in touch and offer guidance. I’m happy with the advice and the results I’m benefiting from.

    Allan Cavanagh

  • James has been my family’s financial advisor for the past 6 years. He has looked after our super and life insurance and provided invaluable financial advice. We have used other advisors previously; however, none have offered James’s understanding of our situation and what options might be available to us that we are not aware of. He is a pleasure to deal with, and I would highly recommend him.

    Matt Woodroffe

  • James has looked after my family and me for many years. I trust James and he has really helped us understand what we need to do to reach our financial goals. I can’t recommend anyone more than James!

    Andrew Rockliff

  • I have been working with James for almost 20 years. I've always been happy to make fun of the financial planning game, but my God we were grateful to have it in place when things went wrong. Thank you, James, for your hard work and diligence in helping with the claim and with establishing a great network of financial support and advice, which I've been leveraging for years.

    Rhys Baker

  • James exhibits the essential attributes and qualities required to be an asset on any person's path to financial freedom and security. Working with James, I have seen clients benefit from his interactions and instruction and I’m sure many more will.

    Mark Cameron

  • Very knowledgeable, tailors an approach and advice to suit each individual's needs and goals. Great communication, never "too busy", whether it's a chat over coffee or a meeting in the office, James' expertise coupled with a friendly approach is refreshing for those of us who sometimes get lost in the complexities of the industry!

    Nigel

  • I would like to express my thanks and appreciation for the work and expertise you have done and provided over the past years. I not only consider you my advisor, but we have become friends over the years and again I appreciate the help you have given me. You have gone on to extend the same help to my now adult children. May you prosper along with your clients.

    Jeremy Bressick

  • James Hayes managed my super and investment portfolio for 5+ years, and I couldn't be happier with not only the results, but the communication and overall professionalism provided. I highly recommend.

    Joe Boy

  • I've been lucky enough to have James looking after my financial affairs for many years and couldn't be happier. Genuine guy with exceptional industry knowledge.

    Pietro Di Ciaccio

  • I’ve been using James as my financial planner for just over 5 years now. He’s done an amazing job with my super and would recommend him.

    Laura Stevenson

  • Really great advice and explained to a non-financial person so well! Happy to recommend.

    Lyn Bradshaw

I’m based in Caringbah, and most of the people I work with live right here in the Sutherland Shire. If you’re nearby, chances are I already have clients in your suburb, which makes it easy to catch up in person when you need to.

What Sutherland Shire Suburbs Do I Serve?

Alfords PointAudleyBangorBarden RidgeBonnet Bay
BundeenaBurraneerCaringbahCaringbah SouthCaravan Head
ComoComo WestCronullaDolans BayEngadine
Grays PointGreenhills BeachGundamaianGymeaGymea Bay
HeathcoteIllawongJannaliKangaroo PointKareela
KirraweeLilli PilliLoftusLucas HeightsMaianbar
MenaiMirandaOyster BayPort HackingRoyal National Park
Sandy PointSutherlandSylvania HeightsSylvania WatersTaren Point
WarumbulWaterfallWooloowareWoronoraWoronora Dam
Woronora HeightsYarrawarrahYowie BayKurnell

If you don’t see your suburb listed, that doesn’t rule you out because I also work with clients across Sydney and the CBD who prefer an advisor close to home in the Shire.

What Financial Planning Services Do I Offer?

Money means different things at different stages of life. These are the areas where I can step in and help take the pressure off:

Transition to Retirement

Structuring your income streams as you ease out of work, while keeping your lifestyle and tax planning on track.

Learn more
tow people sitting with laptops discussing finances

Inheritance Advice

Helping you manage family inheritances in a tax-smart way, so wealth is preserved and distributed as smoothly as possible.

Learn more
a man inspecting shares and ETF charts

Shares & ETFs

Building and managing portfolios of shares and ETFs, with strategies designed to balance growth potential against sensible risk.

Learn more
a laptop with finance written in big on a piece of paper

Property Investments

Guiding you on when and how property can play a role in your broader financial plan, including super and tax considerations.

Learn more
An old man standing on a pile of coins

Pensions

Setting up reliable tax-free retirement income streams that give you security today while protecting your financial future.

Learn more
four people discussing plans for aged care homes

Aged Care Planning

Supporting families through the complexity of aged care decisions, from costs and entitlements to long-term sustainability.

Learn more
A young couple with two children using their hands to show their home

First Home Buying

Helping younger clients step into the property market with clear strategies on saving, borrowing, and long-term planning.

Learn more
a couple discussing investment options with a financial advisor

Ethical Investing

Designing investment strategies that align with your personal values while still focusing on growth and financial outcomes.

Learn more
An older couple discusing wills on a laptop with their advisor

Wills & Estate Planning

Ensuring your assets are protected, your wishes are carried out, and your loved ones are supported into the future.

Learn more

Every plan is personal. I’m not tied to banks or big corporates, and I don’t use rinse-and-repeat templates. The strategies we build together reflect your goals, your values, and the life you want to live.

Book Your Free 15-Minute Call

Most People Don’t Look at Super Until It’s Almost Too Late.

James Hayes Headshot

That’s when they realise the rules are complicated and the opportunities they missed can’t be clawed back. My role is to help you use super properly, while there’s still time to benefit. The first step is a quick conversation.

Book Your Free 15-Minute Cal
Click to Call

Superannuation & SMSF FAQs

  • Superannuation is Australia’s compulsory retirement savings system. Employers must contribute 11% of salary, but relying on this alone often isn’t enough. A financial planner helps you boost your balance through voluntary contributions, investment strategies, and tax planning to ensure that your super supports a comfortable retirement instead of falling short.

  • The rules around contributions, investment options, and withdrawals are complex. A financial planner explains strategies in plain English, ensures compliance with changing legislation, and personalises advice to your goals. Their role is to help you avoid mistakes and maximise tax efficiency, so that your super genuinely supports your retirement lifestyle.

  • Employer contributions alone rarely build a sufficient balance. Advisers model scenarios to show how concessional (pre-tax) and non-concessional (after-tax) contributions affect retirement income. Salary sacrifice, spouse contributions, and bring-forward rules can accelerate growth. Contribution caps apply, so planning is crucial to avoid penalties while maximising tax savings.

  • Super is locked until you reach preservation age, currently 60, and retire. Earlier access is only allowed under strict conditions like permanent disability. Financial planners structure retirement income streams (like account-based pensions) so clients can access funds tax-effectively once eligible, without breaching release rules.

  • Super can be invested across shares, property, fixed interest, and cash. The right mix depends on age, risk tolerance, and retirement goals. A financial planner reviews your super’s current investment strategy, compares alternatives, and aligns it with your timeline to retirement to balance growth potential with capital protection.

  • Yes. Advice fees that relate directly to earning assessable income through super or investments can be deducted. Fees for estate planning or insurance usually aren’t. Financial planners work with accountants to ensure deductibility is applied correctly to reduce the effective cost of quality advice and boost retirement outcomes.

  • Contributing an inheritance into super can be highly tax-effective, but caps, age restrictions, and timing rules apply. Advisors assess whether non-concessional contributions or spouse contribution strategies make sense. Planning ensures you don’t trigger penalties and that inherited wealth genuinely strengthens your long-term retirement income stream.

  • Caps, tax rates, and pension rules shift regularly. For example, the concessional cap (current as of 1 July 2025) remains at $30,000. Budget announcements often change super’s treatment in retirement phase. A financial planner tracks reforms and adjusts your strategy so you don’t miss opportunities or get caught by penalties.

  • Most Australians are well-served by retail or industry funds. SMSFs suit higher balances and those wanting control over property or alternative investments but come with extra costs and responsibilities. A financial planner compares fund types and advises whether control, flexibility, and costs make an SMSF worthwhile for you.

  • Concessional contributions come from pre-tax income (employer super guarantee, salary sacrifice, or personal deductible contributions) taxed at 15%. Non-concessional contributions are from after-tax income, with higher annual caps. Each plays a role in building balances efficiently. Advice helps structure both correctly for tax and retirement planning.