Important: SMSF lending rules change in 2026
SMSF refinancing, made simple
Refinancing an SMSF loan is often easier than people expect. The property stays the same, the bare trust usually stays in place, and we manage the process from your current lender through to settlement.
When is it worth refinancing?
A review is worth considering if:
Sometimes the right decision is to stay where you are. We’ll tell you honestly if that’s the better option.
Things to weigh up before you switch
Refinancing usually pays off, but it’s not automatic. A lower headline rate isn’t the whole story: fees, loan term and features all matter.
Keep these in mind:
- Don’t reset the clock unnecessarily: extending the loan term lowers repayments but can cost more in total interest.
- Fixed-rate break costs can wipe out the saving. Always check before exiting a fixed term.
- An SMSF refinance can’t increase your borrowing or pull equity out for other uses.
- Compare the total cost (rate plus fees plus features), not just the advertised rate.
How it works
Most SMSF refinances take around 3 to 6 weeks from application to settlement.
We'll review your current SMSF loan, compare it against today's market and explain whether refinancing is likely to benefit your fund.
We assess suitable SMSF lenders, looking at interest rates, policy, loan features and overall value, not just the headline rate.
From the application and valuation through to discharge documents and lender requirements, we handle the process for you.
We coordinate settlement with both lenders and keep you updated until your new loan is in place.
Can I refinance my SMSF loan?
If your fund is compliant, the loan is performing, and the numbers still service at current rates, you can almost certainly refinance. Lenders reassess the fund and property much like a new application, but it’s usually more straightforward.
Lenders will generally look for:
- A compliant SMSF with the LRBA and bare trust in place.
- An LVR within the new lender’s limits (often easier now if the fund has grown or the loan has paid down).
- Serviceability at the new lender’s assessment rate, from rent plus contributions.
- A clean repayment history on the existing loan.
- A liquidity buffer remaining in the fund.
Will refinancing cost me?
There are some costs (a discharge fee from your current lender, possible fixed-rate break costs, and the new lender’s application, valuation and legal fees), but no new stamp duty, because the property doesn’t change ownership.
The bare trust generally stays in place, which keeps cost and complexity down compared with a new purchase. Break costs only apply if you’re exiting a fixed rate early, and can sometimes be significant. We check this first so there are no surprises.
We weigh the total switching cost against the projected saving as part of the loan review, so you can see the real net benefit before deciding.
| Cost | Typical range (indicative) |
|---|---|
| Current lender discharge fee | $150 – $400 |
| Fixed-rate break cost (if applicable) | varies, can be significant |
| New lender application & valuation | $0 – $1,000 |
| Legal (LRBA / lender requirements) | $300 – $1,000 |
Indicative only - confirm with your lender and solicitor. Stamp duty does not normally apply to a genuine SMSF refinance.
Why refinance through koala financial?
Why refinance through a specialist broker?
SMSF refinancing is more involved than a standard refinance: the LRBA and bare trust have to be handled correctly, and only some lenders compete for SMSF business. A specialist gets it done without disrupting your fund.
We compare the lenders active in SMSF lending, do the cost-benefit maths honestly, manage the discharge and new application, and coordinate your accountant or solicitor where needed. If a switch isn’t worth it, we’ll tell you.
As an SMSF lending specialist in Norwest, Sydney serving clients Australia-wide, koala financial reviews and refinances SMSF loans regularly, so you capture the saving without the headache.
What our clients say
There’s no better measure than the experience of clients who’ve refinanced their loan with us.
“As a first-time property investor, I had a lot of questions and didn’t really know where to begin. Scott made everything easy to understand and clearly explained my borrowing capacity, the different loan options and how…”
Keep exploring SMSF lending
SMSF refinance questions, answered
The questions SMSF borrowers ask us most.
Can I take equity out of my SMSF property when I refinance?
Will I need a new bare trust?
Do I need independent legal advice to refinance?
How long does an SMSF refinance take?
Can I refinance if my current lender has left SMSF lending?
Is it worth refinancing a small SMSF loan?
Last updated: July 2026
This page is general information only. It doesn't take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs, and it isn't credit, financial or tax advice. Figures are indicative estimates that vary by lender, state and property and can change, so we confirm your real numbers before you act. For tax questions, speak to a registered tax agent or accountant. Scott Lung, credit representative 567904 of Purple Circle Financial Services Pty Ltd (Australian Credit Licence 486112).
Ready to review your SMSF loan?
A quick loan review could save your fund money. If refinancing isn't the right move, we'll tell you.