SPAA’s chief executive Andrea Slattery said the partnership with Count is a strong indicator of the direction the SMSF industry is taking.

“This partnership highlights the importance of continually lifting professional standards, as well as creating the architecture that will allow similar arrangements into the future,” Ms Slattery said.

"It is imperative that advisers commit to be at the forefront of professionalism because that allows consumers to make more informed decisions and to build their wealth efficiently to meet their personal goals,” she added.

Count chief executive David Lane said the partnership with SPAA will benefit Count’s advisers by supporting them to become SPAA members through subsidising their membership fees.

“The partnership will also provide Count’s advisers with a special rate to obtain the SPAA accreditation,” he said.

“Count advisers who join SPAA will also get the benefit of enhanced access to training and education provided through SPAA’s webinars and conferences,” he added.