This is the third appointment to the SMSF Association board in the past month, after Tracey Scotchbrook and Michael Houlihan joined the board earlier this month.

It also follows the appointment of former Labor federal politician and parliamentary secretary for the Gillard Labor government, Bernie Ripoll, to the board in April.

SMSF Association chair Deborah Ralston said it was pleasing to have another specialist adviser join the board, especially as Mr Hay-Bartlem “brings a distinguished record of service to the SMSF sector”.

“This appointment, when coupled with the recent appointments of Tracey and Michael, gives the association a strong and diverse board boasting a broad range of skills and experiences that will allow us to better meet the needs of members and tackle the policy challenges facing the SMSF sector.”

Mr Hay-Bartlem said it was a rare honour to join the SMSF Association board, with the association playing a crucial role in advancing the interests of the SMSF sector.

“To be invited to join the board is both exciting and humbling,” Mr Hay-Bartlem said.

“I look forward to working with Deborah and the other board members to enhance the interests and goals of the association and the wider SMSF community.”