Chris is one of Australia’s most respected practitioners in superannuation. He is in demand as a public speaker and media commentator and presents keynote addresses and workshops to conferences and seminars throughout Australia on superannuation matters. He is well published in both the technical and mainstream media.

Chris has specialised in the structuring, auditing and consulting of superannuation funds since 1987 and has built a high profile and respected reputation in this field. He was a founding member of the Financial Advisory Services Centre of Excellence of CPA Australia and was a member of the Federal Government’s Superannuation National Audit Consultative Committee as well as the SMSF Audit Advisory Committee for the ATO. He has sat on several APRA and AUASB committees (including the recent update of the GS009 guidance relating to the audit of Self-Managed Super Funds) and has been appointed by APRA to act as an Expert Witness in the Federal Court as well as being appointed as an Acting Trustee by the Regulator.

Chris is passionately committed to all aspects of the superannuation industry and is regarded as being a key person in raising the professional standards relating to that industry throughout Australia.

He was conferred a National President’s Award by CPA Australia for his outstanding contribution to the Australian Accounting Profession.

Chris brings his vast experience and great energy to Baumgartners and Baumgartner Super and is a valued asset from which both staff and clients benefit significantly. 

Aside from establishing a very impressive career, Chris has been a keen sailor all his life and currently owns a classic Couta Boat in which he competes from the Sorrento Sailing Couta Boat Club.

He and his wife Toby love wine, food and travelling, particularly in France and the UK where they have lived and worked.

Qualifications and memberships

  • AGIT (COM), TTTC.
  • Certificate of Financial Planning
  • Fellow, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand
  • Fellow, CPA Australia
  • Registered Company Auditor
  • Registered SMSF Auditor
  • Registered Tax Agent