13/07/2026
Think the super property ban shuts you out?
Not if it is a farm.
From 10 August 2026, self-managed super funds can no longer borrow to buy residential property. However, the ban leaves one big door open.
A genuine working farm counts as business real property, and funds can still borrow to buy it. No countdown to the 7 August contract deadline.
Even better, farms come with advantages residential property never gets. A fund can acquire the farm from family at market value.
It can be leased back to the family farming business. And believe it or not, a member and their family can live in the farmhouse, as long as the private area stays within 2 hectares, farming stays the main use, and market rent is paid under a proper lease.
The ATO's own ruling backs this in. It even runs through a couple who move their vineyard and home into their fund and lease it back.
The catch is that it has to be a real farm. Hobby farms and lifestyle blocks miss out, and the detail has to be right.
If a farm is part of your family's plans, it is worth a conversation before the window closes. Get in touch and we will walk you through it.
General information only, not personal advice. Jason Bibby (AR 321506), SMSF Financial Solutions Pty Ltd (CAR 1267673), CAR of Finexia Wealth Pty Ltd (AFSL 522661).
Learn why genuine farm property remains eligible for SMSF borrowing after the 2026 residential property ban and how business real property rules apply.