The new appointments replace retiring directors Liam Shorte, Dr Deborah Ralston, and Bryan Ashenden.

SMSF Association chair, Scott Hay-Bartlem, said the three new members will each bring unique perspectives from their years in the industry.

“We are delighted to have their industry knowledge and experience on the board as we strive to represent the industry and enhance the quality of SMSF advice,” Hay-Bartlem said.

Heffron is an SMSF Association fellow and specialist adviser with over two decades of experience in SMSFs.

A passionate advocate for education within the SMSF community, Heffron has been an active member of the SMSF Association for more than 20 years, regularly speaking at the association’s national conferences and professional development events.

Her longstanding commitment to the industry was recognised when she won the association’s Chair Award in 2010 and CEO Award in 2020.

“It’s a pleasure to join the board of an organisation I have been involved with for many years, specifically contributing at a leadership level for the success and growth of the sector,” Heffron said.

Griffiths will contribute over 25 years of experience spanning legislative compliance, retirement income streams and estate planning. He has worked for one of the largest superannuation consulting firms in Queensland and is currently a director of superannuation advisory Vincents.

He said he has “greatly valued” the association’s role in the superannuation and broader financial advisory sector and looks forward to utilising his knowledge and contributing to the association’s continued success.

Sue’s diverse background in financial planning and taxation includes his current role as partner and general manager at Matrix Norwest. His technical expertise in SMSFs, coupled with strong business acumen, means he is well-positioned to contribute to the association’s strategic direction.

“I feel privileged at the opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to the board and its mission of empowering Australians to manage their own superannuation,” Sue said.

“I’m particularly eager to highlight the importance of engaging with a younger demographic and ensuring the industry continues to evolve.”

Hay-Bartlem thanked the retiring directors for their contributions to the board and said their experience and dedication have greatly supported the growth and success of the association.

“In particular, I would like to thank and acknowledge Dr Deborah Ralston for her enormous contribution to the association which spanned two stints as director and one as board chair,” he said.

“With over 25 years of board-level experience including roles on the Future Fund Board of Guardians and the RBA Payments System Board, her leadership has been invaluable. We are grateful for her lasting impact on the Association and the financial services industry.”