Understand the fund
We look at its financial position, income, contributions and available liquidity from a lending perspective.
SMSF Loans Queensland
SMSF LENDING
SMSF Property Lending Starts With the Right Structure
Borrowing through a self-managed super fund involves more than finding a property and applying for finance. The fund, property, borrowing structure and lender policy all need to fit together.
Ausfirst Lending Group helps trustees considering SMSF loans in Queensland understand the lending process, compare relevant lender policies and manage the finance application through to settlement. As a mortgage broker in Caloundra, we provide locally based lending support to SMSF borrowers across Queensland.
Assess the property
Property type, value, intended use and lender acceptability can affect the available finance.
Compare lender policy
Different SMSF lenders can take different views of the same proposal, so lender selection can matter.
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SMSF Lending Across Queensland
Queensland SMSF borrowers can have very different finance requirements. A business owner may be looking at premises for their operating business, while another trustee may already have an SMSF property loan that was established before the current borrowing rules changed and now wants to investigate refinancing.
Ausfirst’s role is to deal with finance. We can assess the borrowing proposal against current lender policies, explain documentation and serviceability requirements, compare relevant loan options and coordinate the lending process with the other professionals involved.
That distinction matters. Decisions about establishing an SMSF, its investment strategy, tax treatment and legal structure require the appropriate financial, taxation and legal advice. We can work alongside your accountant, financial adviser, solicitor or SMSF administrator so that the lending requirements are considered at the right stage.
For business owners considering premises outside an SMSF structure, Ausfirst also assists with commercial property loans. Borrowing through other ownership structures may instead involve specialist options such as property trust loans.
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How an SMSF Property Loan Works
SMSFs are subject to restrictions on borrowing. One exception is a Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangement, usually shortened to LRBA. Under an LRBA, borrowed money may be used to acquire a single acquirable asset, or certain collections of identical assets with the same market value, that is held in a separate trust while the SMSF holds the beneficial interest, subject to the legislative requirements.
The “limited recourse” part is important. Subject to the legislative requirements, if the arrangement defaults, the lender’s rights relating to that borrowing are limited to the asset acquired under the arrangement rather than extending to the SMSF’s other assets.
The Australian Taxation Office explains the LRBA requirements in its limited recourse borrowing guidance.
From a lender’s perspective, there are several moving parts. The SMSF may need sufficient funds for the deposit and transaction costs while retaining enough liquidity after settlement to meet the lender’s policy. The lender may also consider how repayments can be supported by acceptable fund income, which could include rental income, contributions and other income recognised under that lender’s servicing rules.
The holding or bare trust documentation and transaction sequence also need careful attention. Your solicitor, accountant and other SMSF professionals should advise on the legal, tax and superannuation aspects of the structure. Ausfirst can coordinate with them on the finance requirements so that the lender’s documentation and timing are understood before the application progresses.
CURRENT BORROWING RULES
What Changed for New SMSF Property Borrowing in August 2026?
Accurate as of September 2026. An important change now applies to new SMSF limited recourse borrowing arrangements involving real property.
Schedule 5 of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Tax Reform No. 1) Act 2026 amended section 67A of the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993. The change commenced on 10 August 2026.
New Real-Property Arrangements
For an affected LRBA involving real property entered into from 10 August 2026, the real property must satisfy the legislative definition of business real property. As a result, a standard residential investment property would not ordinarily satisfy the business real property requirement for an affected new LRBA.
Existing Arrangements and Transitional Protection
The legislation includes transitional treatment for specified arrangements entered into before commencement. It also preserves specified refinancing arrangements relating to pre-commencement borrowings and certain acquisitions that occur under arrangements entered into before commencement, subject to the legislative conditions.
Business Real Property
For some Queensland business owners, business premises may therefore remain relevant to SMSF lending. Whether a particular property satisfies the legal definition of business real property depends on the circumstances and should be confirmed with appropriately qualified SMSF, legal and tax professionals. Ausfirst can assess the finance, while those advisers determine whether the proposed transaction and property satisfy the applicable superannuation requirements.
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What SMSF Lenders Assess
An SMSF lender may consider the fund, property, members, proposed borrowing and supporting documentation together rather than relying on one figure. Assessment methods and requirements can vary between lenders.
- SMSF financial position: Current assets, liabilities, financial statements and fund history may form part of the assessment.
- Deposit and LVR: The loan-to-value ratio, or LVR, compares the proposed loan with the lender’s accepted property value. Maximum LVRs vary by lender and security type.
- Post-settlement liquidity: Some lenders may require the fund to retain a specified level of liquid assets after the purchase. The amount and calculation method are lender-policy matters rather than a universal SMSF rule.
- Rental income: A lender may consider existing or proposed rent but may not use the full amount when calculating serviceability.
- Contributions and other income: The treatment of employer, personal and proposed contributions can differ between lenders, as can the treatment of other investment income.
- Fund and trust documents: Trust deeds, financial statements, investment-strategy documentation and holding-trust documentation may be requested.
- Property security: Location, use, property type, valuation and marketability can affect whether a lender will accept the property as security.
- Member circumstances: Depending on the lender, member ages, retirement timing, guarantees or an exit strategy may also form part of the assessment.
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Comparing SMSF Loans Queensland Options
Ausfirst has access to a panel of more than 40 lenders. That does not mean every lender on the panel offers SMSF finance. Instead, we identify the lenders whose current SMSF policies may fit the fund, property and proposed transaction.
Lenders can differ on acceptable property types, maximum LVRs, minimum fund positions, liquidity calculations, servicing treatment, contribution history, guarantees, interest rates, fees, loan terms and documentation requirements. Commercial SMSF property can also be assessed differently from other forms of property security.
That variation is the practical reason to compare lenders. The lowest advertised rate may be of limited relevance if the lender will not accept the property, does not recognise enough of the fund’s income or applies a requirement the proposal cannot meet.
Differences in lender policy can have a practical impact when choosing an SMSF lender, particularly where the fund, property or proposed borrowing does not fit standard lending criteria.
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Queensland SMSF Lending Situations We Can Assist With
Buying Eligible Business Premises
A Queensland business owner may be considering eligible commercial premises to be acquired by their SMSF and leased to their operating business. We can assess the lending side, including lender appetite, servicing, valuation and documentation requirements, while the client’s professional advisers address the SMSF, legal, tax and lease requirements.
Refinancing an Existing SMSF Loan
A trustee with an existing SMSF property loan may want to investigate another lender because the current product, rate or policy no longer fits the fund. Where refinancing is legally available, we can compare relevant refinancing loan options and assess the lender requirements before an application is made.
Comparing Policies Before Committing
Two lenders may assess the same SMSF differently. Looking at policy before the transaction advances can help identify potential issues around liquidity, contributions, property security or documentation while there is still time to address them.
Coordinating a More Complex Application
An SMSF transaction can involve a broker, lender, solicitor, accountant, SMSF administrator and other advisers. We focus on keeping the finance component moving and communicating lender requirements clearly to the relevant parties.
HOW WE WORK
Our SMSF Lending Process
Understand
We start with the property or refinancing proposal and where your SMSF currently stands. The aim is to understand the finance requirement before discussing lender options.
Gather
We identify the fund, financial, property and supporting documents that relevant lenders are likely to request.
Analyse and Compare
We assess relevant lender policies and compare available SMSF loan options against the proposal rather than assuming one lender will suit every fund.
Coordinate
Where appropriate, we liaise with your accountant, solicitor, financial adviser or SMSF administrator about lender requirements while those professionals deal with matters within their own scope.
Apply and Finalise
Once you decide to proceed, we prepare the finance application, communicate with the lender and assist with the lending process through approval and settlement, subject to lender assessment.
Support
Your loan does not necessarily need to remain untouched indefinitely. Where appropriate, we can review the finance later as lender products, policies or your fund’s circumstances change.
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Why Work With Ausfirst for an SMSF Loan in Queensland?
Direct Access to an Experienced Queensland Broker
Richard Luke is Director of Ausfirst Lending Group and brings more than 30 years of lending experience in Queensland. Clients can work directly with Richard rather than being passed through a large call-centre structure.
A Caloundra Base With Queensland-Wide Service
Ausfirst is based at Suite 3/74 Bulcock Street, Caloundra QLD 4551. We can assist Queensland clients by phone and online, while clients who are closer to the Sunshine Coast may also arrange an in-person appointment where appropriate.
Experience With Structured Lending
SMSF finance sits alongside other forms of structured property lending handled by Ausfirst, including commercial and trust borrowing. That experience can be useful when the lender needs to understand multiple entities, documentation requirements or a less straightforward property transaction.
Lender Choice With a Purpose
Access to more lenders is useful only when their policies are relevant. We use Ausfirst’s panel of more than 40 lenders to identify the subset whose current lending requirements may warrant consideration for the particular proposal.
Coordination Rather Than Blurred Advice
We stay focused on lending. Where a transaction requires tax, legal, superannuation or personal financial advice, we can work with your chosen professionals rather than treating mortgage broking as a substitute for their expertise.
YOUR BROKER
Meet Richard Luke
Richard Luke is Director of Ausfirst Lending Group and brings more than 30 years of experience across finance and lending. His career has included lending experience with Commonwealth Bank and senior roles in finance businesses, giving him experience across both lender and broker environments.
Richard has a Graduate Diploma in Business from the University of Queensland and a Diploma of Financial Planning (RG146), alongside earlier university studies in law. His lending work includes SMSF, commercial and other structured property finance, where lender policy, documentation and the circumstances of the proposed transaction can all influence the available options.
For Queensland SMSF borrowers, Ausfirst's service model provides direct access to Richard and a hands-on approach to the lending process. He can help assess the proposal from a finance perspective, compare relevant lender policies and oversee the lending process through to settlement, while working alongside the client's accountant, financial adviser, solicitor or SMSF administrator where their specialist advice is required.
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What Ausfirst Clients Say
Ausfirst’s published client stories highlight the value some clients place on ongoing communication and having a broker who already understands their circumstances.
“He knows what we're like, what we're looking for, and what kind of products suit us.”
“The flexibility, the service, and the painless process gave me peace of mind.”
Published Ausfirst client case study. This is a general lending testimonial and is not represented as an SMSF borrowing case study.
SMSF LENDING QUEENSLAND
Talk Through Your Queensland SMSF Lending Options
If you have an SMSF property proposal in mind, a useful starting point can be to find out how relevant lenders may assess it. We can look at the fund, proposed property, borrowing requirement and relevant lender policies before you decide how to proceed.
Ausfirst can then coordinate the finance with your other SMSF professionals and help manage the lending application through to settlement, subject to lender assessment.
SMSF LOANS QUEENSLAND FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can an SMSF still borrow to buy property?
SMSF borrowing remains possible through qualifying arrangements, but the rules for new real-property LRBAs changed from 10 August 2026. For affected new arrangements involving real property, the asset must satisfy the current business real property requirement, subject to the legislation and applicable transitional provisions.
Can my SMSF take out a new loan for residential property?
For an affected LRBA entered into from 10 August 2026, real property must satisfy the business real property requirement. A standard residential investment property would not ordinarily satisfy that requirement for an affected new LRBA, although transitional provisions may apply to specified earlier arrangements.
How much deposit does an SMSF need for a property loan?
There is no universal SMSF deposit percentage that applies across all lenders. The required contribution from the fund can depend on the lender, property, valuation, maximum acceptable LVR and any post-settlement liquidity requirements.
Can an SMSF refinance an existing property loan?
Refinancing may be possible subject to the current law and the replacement lender’s requirements. The 2026 amendments preserve specified refinancing arrangements relating to borrowings under arrangements entered into before the new rules commenced, subject to the legislative conditions.
What documents will an SMSF lender ask for?
Requirements vary, but lenders may request the SMSF trust deed, financial statements and tax returns, bank or investment statements, contribution evidence, holding-trust documents and property information. A valuation, lease or rental appraisal and additional member or guarantor information may also be required.
Can my SMSF buy premises used by my business?
Business real property may be relevant to an SMSF transaction, including in some circumstances where a related business occupies the premises, provided the applicable superannuation requirements are satisfied. Appropriate SMSF, legal and tax advice should be obtained on the transaction, while your broker can assess the finance and lender requirements.
Where is Ausfirst Lending Group located?
Ausfirst Lending Group is based at Suite 3/74 Bulcock Street, Caloundra QLD 4551 and services borrowers across Queensland. Clients can speak with the team by phone and online, with local appointments available where appropriate.
The information above is general in nature and is accurate as of September 2026. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs and does not constitute personal financial, investment, tax or legal advice. SMSF rules, lender policies, rates, fees and assessment requirements can change, and outcomes are subject to lender assessment. Consider obtaining independent financial, taxation and legal advice appropriate to your circumstances. This content is subject to Ausfirst Lending Group/broker review before publication.
Award-Winning Brokers With 50+ Years Of Accumulated Knowledge & Lending Experience
Ausfirst Lending Group is proud to be recognised as a finalist in the 2024 Sunshine Coast Business Awards under the Professional Services category, showcasing our commitment to excellence and dedication to serving the community with integrity and expertise.
Our Lenders
Quality
We don’t just find you a loan that fits; we aim to get one that exceeds your expectations in terms of rates, options, and service.
Choice
We work with over 40 lenders, including big banks and non-bank lenders, giving you unparalleled mortgage choice—you have plenty of options to choose the most suitable home loan for you.
Support
Our team is dedicated to guiding you throughout your homeownership journey, whether it’s securing your first home or an additional investment property. We provide ongoing support, including a 6-month review process to keep your loan competitive.
Experienced Brokers
Every mortgage broker on our team has over 10 years of industry experience, ensuring expert advice every step of the way.
Personalised Approach
We tailor home loan solutions that prioritise your best interests, not the bank’s.
Simple Process
Our entire process is transparent and easy to understand, making the entire journey hassle-free.
What Makes Ausfirst Lending Group Different?
Investing in a holiday home can be an effective way to build long-term wealth while creating a personal sanctuary, and choosing the right holiday home loan is an important part of your strategy. At Ausfirst Lending Group, we take the time to understand your financial circumstances, lifestyle objectives, and future plans to help you compare suitable finance options from our panel of lenders.
Whether you're purchasing your very first vacation property, expanding your rental portfolio, refinancing an existing holiday home loan, or leveraging equity to fund your next getaway destination, we provide personalised guidance throughout every stage of the process. We'll help you understand your borrowing capacity, compare specialized loan features, and identify lending solutions that align with your property strategy.
Our goal is to make the loan process straightforward and stress-free by providing clear advice, regular communication, and dedicated support from application through to settlement. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, we focus on helping you secure a holiday home loan that supports your financial goals, maximises your opportunities, and contributes to your long-term wealth-building strategy.
Whether you're purchasing your very first vacation property, expanding your rental portfolio, refinancing an existing holiday home loan, or leveraging equity to fund your next getaway destination, we provide personalised guidance throughout every stage of the process. We'll help you understand your borrowing capacity, compare specialized loan features, and identify lending solutions that align with your property strategy.
Our goal is to make the loan process straightforward and stress-free by providing clear advice, regular communication, and dedicated support from application through to settlement. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, we focus on helping you secure a holiday home loan that supports your financial goals, maximises your opportunities, and contributes to your long-term wealth-building strategy.
Visit Your Local Mortgage Broker on the Sunshine Coast
Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, or exploring loan options through a trust or SMSF, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. As your trusted Mortgage Broker on the Sunshine Coast, we offer personalised advice tailored to your needs.
Office Hours
Monday
9 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday
9 AM - 5 PM
Wednesday
9 AM - 5 PM
Thursday
9 AM - 5 PM
Friday
9 AM - 5 PM
Location: Suite 3/74 Bulcock St, Caloundra QLD 4551
Our SMSF Lending Process
Understand
We begin by understanding your SMSF goals — from setting up the fund to purchasing your first investment property — through an initial consultation (via phone, Zoom, or in person).
Gather
We collect key SMSF and trustee information, including trust deeds, financial statements, and contribution details, to lay the foundation for a compliant lending strategy.
Analyse & Plan
We review your borrowing capacity, assess suitable SMSF loan options, and design a lending plan that aligns with both your fund’s investment strategy and ATO compliance requirements.
Apply
We prepare and submit your SMSF loan application to the most suitable lender, ensuring all LRBA and bare trust documentation is accurate and complete.
Finalise
We coordinate settlement, work with your solicitor and custodian trustee, and ensure the property title is correctly held for SMSF compliance.
Support
We provide ongoing SMSF loan reviews, refinancing options, and compliance guidance to help your fund’s investments perform at their best over time.
Explore Other Loan Solutions We Offer
We provide a wide range of lending options designed to suit different property goals, financial situations, and investment strategies. Whatever your needs, our team is here to guide you to the right loan solution.
Home Ownership Loans
For buyers and homeowners managing their own property needs.
First Home Loans
Get started on your homeownership journey with our first home loan options, crafted to help you secure your dream home.
Second Home Loans
Finance your next property with ease using our second home loan options.
Home Equity Loan
Leverage the equity in your home to unlock funds for renovation, investment, or other financial needs.
Refinancing
Review and enhance your current mortgage terms with our refinancing options, designed to save you money.
Changing Home Loans
Adapt your mortgage to suit your changing life circumstances with ease.
Bridging Loans
Bridge the gap between buying and selling with short-term loan solutions.
Investment Loans
Investment Loans
Explore our investment loan solutions designed to help you build and grow your property portfolio.
SMSF Loans
Utilise your self-managed super fund to invest in property with our specialised SMSF loan options.
Trust Loans
Secure funding for your trust's investment needs with our trust loan solutions, tailored for optimal outcomes.
Sophisticated Investor
Unlock exclusive lending opportunities tailored for sophisticated investors ready to scale.
Rentvesting
Live where you love and invest where it counts with our rentvesting strategies.
Holiday Home Loans
Own your dream holiday retreat with our tailored holiday home loan solutions.
Commercial & Construction Loans
Commercial Loans
Secure finance for your business property needs with our commercial loan options.
Construction Loans
Access funds in stages as construction progresses.
Property Improvement
Green Home Loans
Finance eco-friendly homes or upgrades with our green loan products.
Renovation Loans
Transform your property with renovation loans tailored for projects of any size.
Tailored Loan Solutions for Professionals Across All Industries
We provide tailored lending options for healthcare workers, educators, tradespeople, legal professionals, and business owners—designed to suit the way you earn and work.
LMI Waived Loans For Medical & Healthcare Professionals
At Ausfirst Lending Group, we understand that medical and healthcare professionals need more than just a loan—they need a lending partner who appreciates their unique journey. Whether you're a doctor, nurse, dentist, or allied health specialist, we provide tailored home loan solutions with personal guidance, LMI waivers, and flexible options that fit your career and lifestyle. With Richard’s 30+ years of hands-on broking experience, we ensure your loan process is managed with care, transparency, and expertise from start to finish
Home Loans for Doctors
Designed to accommodate complex income structures like private practice, hospital rosters, and ABNs.
Home Loans for Nurses
Flexible loan terms aligned with shift work schedules and frontline service benefits.
Home Loans For Chiropractor
Mortgage options that recognise the cash flow patterns of clinic-based professionals.
Home Loans For Dentists
Lending solutions tailored for high-earning professionals with private practice considerations.
Home Loans For Optometrists
Customised loans for optometrists balancing practice ownership and salaried roles.
Home Loans For Pharmacists
Designed to support pharmacists navigating retail, hospital, or business ownership income structures.
Home Loans For Physiotherapists
Tailored lending for physiotherapists in private clinics or mobile practices.
Home Loans For Psychologists
Loan programs suited to private practice psychologists and those in multidisciplinary clinics.
Education Professionals
Educators play a vital role in shaping future generations, and we’re here to ensure their home loan journey is just as rewarding. Whether you're a school teacher, early childhood educator, university lecturer, or support staff member, we offer home loan solutions designed to recognise your dedication to the community. From exclusive lending benefits to flexible loan structures, we simplify the process so you can focus on what you do best—teaching and supporting others.
Home Loans for Teachers
Mortgage solutions that support educators with steady incomes and eligibility for LMI waivers.
Law Enforcement & Legal Professionals
For those who serve and protect—whether in law enforcement, emergency services, legal professions, or defence—navigating the home loan process should be as straightforward as possible. We offer tailored mortgage solutions that acknowledge the unique demands of your profession, providing structured lending benefits, flexible options, and personalised support.
From police officers and firefighters to lawyers and defence personnel, we’re here to simplify your path to homeownership with solutions designed around your service.
Home Loans for Lawyers
Structured home loans for legal professionals with scalable borrowing capacity as careers progress.
Home Loans for Police Officers
Reliable mortgage options designed for law enforcement with steady service incomes and allowances.
Specialised Loan Solutions
LMI Waived Loans
Save thousands by avoiding Lenders Mortgage Insurance with our waived options and find out about our unique loan strategies.
Low-Deposit Home Loans
Tailored for self-employed professionals and business owners who may not have traditional income verification.
100% Offset Home Loans
Take advantage of a 100% Offset Home Loan to minimise the interest you pay by linking your savings directly to your mortgage.
Family Guarantee Home Loans
With a Family Guarantee Home Loan, your parents or close family members can help you enter the property market by using their home equity as security.
Profession-Specific Home Loan Services
Home Loans for Tradies
Flexible lending for self-employed tradies with fluctuating incomes and contractor work history.
Self Employed Loans
Flexible lending tailored to business owners and freelancers with variable documented income.
Home Loans For Accountants
Structured loan solutions designed for accountants with layered income sources and business deductions.
Engineers
Lending options structured for engineers with contract-based or salaried employment structures..
