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4 Nov

Navigating Australia’s Bracket Creep: Strategies for Managing Rising Tax Liabilities

As Australia's highest marginal tax bracket impacts more individuals, a growing number of Australians face rising tax obligations due to "bracket creep," where wage growth outpaces tax rate adjustments. This trend is expected to persist, with tax-efficient strategies the backbone for financial advice to help individuals secure long-term wealth.


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14 Oct

Smart Financial Planning for New Parents: 9 Essential Tips to Manage Parenthood Costs

Discover 9 essential financial planning tips to help new and expecting parents manage the costs of parenthood with confidence and ease.


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19 Sep

Understanding the Taxable Payments Annual Report (TPAR): A Guide for Australian Businesses

The Taxable Payments Annual Report (TPAR) is a mandatory report for Australian businesses in certain industries to disclose contractor payments to the ATO by August 28 each year, ensuring accurate tax reporting.


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2 Sep

How to Prepare a NFP Self-Review Return

Starting July 1st, 2024, non-profit organisations (NFPs) in Australia with an ABN, but not recognised as charitable, must annually submit a NFP self-review return to the ATO to confirm their tax exemption status. This process involves three main sections:


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12 Aug

The Power of Systemisation: Why, How, and What Types of Businesses Can Benefit

Systemisation is the backbone of a successful business. It is the process of creating repeatable and efficient workflows that streamline operations, reduce stress, and foster growth. This blog explores why businesses should embrace systemisation, how they can implement it, and what types of businesses stand to benefit the most.


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16 Jul

Small Business Productivity: Industry & Regional Trends

Building on the findings from Xero Small Business Insights (XSBI) report, Small business productivity: Trends, implications and strategies, this special report presents industry and regional labour productivity data for small businesses.


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10 Jul

Is your family home really tax free?

The main residence exemption exempts your family home from capital gains tax (CGT) when you dispose of it.


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8 Jul

Earned an income from the sharing economy?

It’s essential that any income earned from sharing economy platforms such as Airbnb, Stayz, Uber, etc., is declared in your tax return.


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3 Jul

$20k instant asset write-off passes Parliament

Legislation increasing the instant asset write-off threshold from $1,000 to $20,000 for the 2024 income year.


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3 Jul

What’s ahead for 2024-25?

Will 2024-25 be another year of volatility or a return to stability?


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27 Jun

The Impact of Mental Health Awareness Training on Small Business


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19 Jun

The Art of Efficiency: Mastering Time Management for Maximum Productivity

In today’s fast-paced world, productivity has become a paramount concern for professionals and business owners alike. We constantly strive to optimise our workflows, eliminate inefficiencies, and maximise the value we derive from every minute of our day. One of the key steps in achieving this is recognising the habits and tasks that drain our productivity and replacing them with more effective strategies.


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15 May

Federal Budget 2024 / 2025

Budget 2024-25 is a pre-election budget for the people with everyone getting a little something to ease cost of living pressures. For business, there is the extension of the $20k instant asset write-off again.


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13 May

Quick Ways To Boost Your Business’ Cash Reserves

Secured business loans play an important role in supporting small business owners.


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2 May

Accessing money in your SMSF

The ATO has made a call to professional accountants to help identify and manage illegal early access to superannuation by members of SMSFs.


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1 May

Do your kids want to take over your business?

It’s important that generational succession is managed as closely and diligently.


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30 Apr

Bank of Mum and Dad

The great wealth transfer from the baby boomer generation has begun and home ownership is the catalyst.



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30 Apr

Company Money Crackdown

The ATO is cracking down on business owners who take money or use company resources for themselves.


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23 Apr

Rebuilding After Divorce

Going through a divorce or separation is undoubtedly challenging, but it's essential to take control of your financial future. By understanding the impact of separation on your assets, seeking professional advice, and creating a solid financial plan, you can navigate this difficult time with confidence.


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22 Apr

Leveraging Technology to Drive Business Growth

Technology has transformed the way businesses operate, allowing them to reach new customers, expand into new markets, and improve operational efficiency.


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22 Apr

Achieving Sustainable Growth Through Strategic Planning

Scaling up a business is not just about increasing revenue or expanding into new markets; it's about creating a solid foundation for sustainable growth.


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22 Apr

Understanding the 7 Key Strategies for Business Growth

Every business, regardless of its size or industry, shares a common goal: to grow and thrive in a competitive market.


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18 Apr

Non-compete clauses and worker restraints under review

A new issues paper from Treasury’s Competition Review questions whether non-competes and other restraints are limiting job opportunities and movement.


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18 Apr

How much is my business worth?

For many small business owners, their business is their largest asset and for many, one that is expected to help fund their retirement.


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17 Apr

The assault on professional services

The ATO has signalled that it is willing to pursue professional services firms who divert profits to avoid tax.


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16 Apr

Budget 2024-25

The 2024-25 Federal Budget is the third for the Albanese Government and consistent with previous years, the primary themes are expected to be the cost of living and the economic shift to net zero.


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15 Apr

Warning on SMSF asset valuations

The ATO has issued a warning to trustees of SMSFs about sloppy valuation practices.


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3 Apr

Does Your Company Need a Shareholders Agreement?

A Shareholders Agreement is a legally binding contract negotiated by the shareholders of a company, designed to govern their relationship, business arrangements, rights, responsibilities, obligations, and liabilities. It supplements the company's constitution by addressing matters not covered therein, thus offering more comprehensive protection and clarity.


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27 Mar

My Reflections on Our 2-Day Corporate Retreat

Running a business is not just about crunching numbers and meeting targets; it's also about fostering a strong team dynamic and creating a shared vision. That's why I recently organized a 2-day corporate retreat for the entire SMART team at Phillip Island, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience.


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20 Mar

Getting back what you put in: Loans to get a business started

A recent case highlights the dangers of taking money out of a company without carefully considering the tax implications.


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20 Mar

Revised stage 3 tax cuts confirmed for 1 July

The revised stage 3 tax cuts have passed Parliament and will come into effect on 1 July 2024.


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19 Mar

How to take advantage of the 1 July super cap increase

From 1 July 2024, the amount you can contribute to super will increase.


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18 Mar

The ATO Debt Dilemma

Thousands of taxpayers and their agents were advised by the Australian Taxation Office that they had an outstanding historical tax debt.


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12 Mar

Testamentary Trusts - Why we believe everyone needs one incorporated into their will

In Australia, testamentary trusts have become useful for more people than ever before. They're not just for the wealthy anymore. 


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21 Feb

Maximising Returns: A Comprehensive Guide to Property Investment

Investing in property can be a lucrative venture, especially for small business owners looking to diversify their portfolio or secure a stable source of income.


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21 Feb

Supercharge Your Superannuation

As a small business owner or employee on wages, planning for your future includes managing your superannuation effectively.


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19 Feb

Cashflow: The Lifeblood of Business

In the ever-evolving landscape of small business ownership, it is imperative to remain vigilant and proactive, especially when it comes to financial management. We delve into key strategies and insights to help small business owners navigate financial challenges effectively.


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31 Jan

Tax on Super Earnings

How will the proposed 30% tax on super earnings above $3m work?


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31 Jan

Debt consolidation using your home loan

Consolidating various debts into your home loan can be a strategic financial move that reduces your interest and allows you to pay the debt down faster.


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31 Jan

The problem when the evidence doesn’t match what the taxpayer tells the ATO

The problem when the evidence doesn’t match what the taxpayer tells the ATO.


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31 Jan

Can my SMSF invest in property development?

An SMSF can invest in property development if trustees ensure the investment complies with the rules.


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31 Jan

Contractor or Employee?

An agreement states that a worker is an independent contractor, this does not mean that they are a contractor for tax and superannuation purposes.


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30 Jan

5 things to consider before getting caravan finance

One of the best parts of the summer holidays is packing up the car and heading off on a family holiday. Many Australians are staying at caravan parks in iconic locations


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29 Jan

The Redesigned Stage 3 Personal Income Tax Cuts

The personal income tax cuts legislated to commence on 1 July 2024 will be realigned and redistributed under a proposal released by the Federal Government.


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29 Jan

6 ways to pay off your home faster in 2024

Home is the biggest expense and the sooner you can pay down the debt, the better off you’re going to be financially.


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24 Jan

6 Predictions For Australia's Property Market In 2024

With affordability challenges in major cities, buyers may explore "bridesmaid suburbs" – second-choice areas that offer more reasonable property prices.


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22 Jan

Why you should buy in January

Buying a property, whether as an investment or residence, is never a straightforward process. Take time to research properties, and then make a competitive offer to get the deal done.


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19 Jan

Growing Your Business With Asset Finance In 2024

Without the need for upfront payments, asset finance can play an important role in improving a business's cash flow management.


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16 Jan

Top commercial property predictions for 2023

After a tough year for commercial property investors, the outlook will be better in 2024, according to an expert.


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21 Dec '23

The case of the taxpayer who claimed a loss on their home

A decision by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal has the tax world in a flurry after found taxpayer who sold the apartment she lived in for a loss, then claimed the $265,935 loss in her tax return as a deduction.


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20 Dec '23

Tax on super balances above $3m hits Parliament

Legislation enabling an extra 15% tax on earnings on super balances above $3m is before Parliament.


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18 Dec '23

The key influences of 2024

Uncertainty has reigned over the last few years, but can we expect more consistency as we head into 2024.


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13 Dec '23

Bah humbug: The Christmas tax dilemma

If your work Christmas party is out of the office, keep the cost of your celebrations below $300 per person if you want to avoid paying FBT.


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6 Dec '23

Navigating the Festive Season: A Mortgage Broker's Insight on Credit Management

As the holiday season approaches, it's crucial to consider how your spending habits may influence especially when it comes to utilising easy credit options.


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5 Dec '23

Streamlining Finances in the Digital Age: Top Budgeting Apps

A budgeting app is an app designed to help you optimise the spending and savings choices you make each month.


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29 Nov '23

Unraveling Payroll Tax: Common Blunders and Grouping Dilemmas for Small Business Owners

We'll dive into some of the everyday mistakes and tricky grouping issues that small businesses often encounter when dealing with payroll tax.


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25 Nov '23

Effective strategies for managing cash flow in trades businesses

Maintaining control over cash flow is undeniably a complex balancing act. It's a challenge that lacks a quick and universal solution.


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24 Nov '23

10 reasons why it’s time to change accountant

This article aims to shed light on red-flag indicators that may suggest it's time to consider changing accountants, providing insights into the reasons behind such a decision.


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24 Nov '23

7 Key Inquiries for Your Accountant

Prepare Your Business for a Successful New Year - Challenging conditions, unpredictable supply chains, and increasing inflation highlight the importance of expert financial support.


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24 Nov '23

Benefits of a Specialised Construction Accountant for Your Business

A dedicated construction and trade accountant possesses an in-depth understanding of the sector's unique requirements and intricacies.


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24 Nov '23

Navigating Equity Interests in a Family Business

The journey often begins with businesses adopting simple ownership structures, yet as they progress and expand, intricate challenges emerge.


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24 Nov '23

Tradie Accountants

While any accountant can handle trade-related finances, opting for a specialist in the trades industry offers unique advantages.


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24 Nov '23

Strategies to manage cash flow for construction companies

Regularly monitoring your income and expenses is crucial. These practices will help keep your financial standing robust.


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17 Nov '23

Gold Coast office market faces a shortage in 3 years

Despite an increase in the region’s office vacancy rate the Gold Coast office market is facing a shortage of office space within the next three years.


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14 Nov '23

FBT-Free Electric Cars

New legislation before Parliament, if enacted, will make zero or low emission vehicles FBT-free. We explore who can access the concession and how. 


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13 Nov '23

Smarter Refinancing Before the Holiday Season

Despite the 13 interest rate increases in 19 months, your mortgage interest rate could and should still start with a ‘5’.


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13 Nov '23

Redrawing investment loans

If you have an investment property loan and redraw on the loan for a different purpose the loan account becomes a mixed purpose account.


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13 Nov '23

When is food GST-free?

A recent case before the AAT demonstrates how fine the dividing line is between GST-free and taxable foods.


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10 Nov '23

30% tax on super balances above $3 million

Treasury has released draft legislation for consultation to enact the Government’s plan to increase tax rate superannuation balances above $3m from 15% to 30% from 1 July 2025.


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10 Nov '23

Up to 10 years in prison for deliberate ‘wage theft’

“Wage-theft” is illegal in Queensland, South Australia and Victoria under State laws.


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9 Nov '23

Workers owed $3.6bn in super guarantee

The statistics on employer superannuation guarantee (SG) compliance look pretty good with over $71 billion, collected without intervention from the regulators in 2020-21.


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8 Nov '23

6 ways borrowers can beat rising interest rates

With inflation remaining high, interest rates are likely to stay at elevated levels for some time.


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6 Nov '23

Why accounting matters for your startup?

A crucial lesson for all budding startups is that maintaining a healthy cash flow is a pivotal factor in ensuring the long-term survival of your business.


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1 Nov '23

4 signs you’ve outgrown your accountant

Accountants play a crucial role in providing expertise and guidance to businesses during their startup and initial growth stages.


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26 Oct '23

Have You Outgrown Your Accountant?

As your business grows and evolves, your financial needs change too. Here are five signs that it might be time to consider upgrading to a larger, more specialised accounting firm.


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23 Oct '23

Higher interest rates weigh on household spending

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) may be nearing the end of its interest rate hiking cycle, but the Australian economy is already feeling the effects.


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20 Oct '23

How to reduce the impact of rate rises

The recent rate hikes by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) have understandably put borrowers under pressure.


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19 Oct '23

The ‘Airbnb’ Tax

Property investors that choose to utilise their property for short-term stays (or leave it vacant) are firmly in the sights of the regulators.


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16 Oct '23

30% tax on super earnings above $3m

Treasury has released draft legislation to enact the Government’s plan to increase the tax rate on superannuation balances above $3m.


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12 Oct '23

Are You Ready for A New Accountant?

As your business expands, the need for a specialised and strategic business accountant who can provide ongoing advice and guidance becomes increasingly evident.


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11 Oct '23

Self-education: What can you claim?

The Australian Taxation Office have released a new draft ruling on self-education expenses.


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6 Oct '23

$20k deduction for ‘electrifying’ your business

Electricity is the new black. Gas and other fossil fuels are out. A new, limited incentive nudges business towards energy efficiency.


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5 Oct '23

Hybrid work likely to remain for the next 3 years

In the wake of COVID-19, Australian offices have undergone a significant shift – and things aren’t likely to change anytime soon.


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29 Sep '23

New listings on the rise as spring season gets underway

New listings have risen by 13.2% through the winter season, driven by a 17.9% rise across the capital cities.


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27 Sep '23

Staging your home for a spring sale

Spending more money doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get a better outcome. In many instances, focusing on the basics can make a big impact and make your home more appealing.


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22 Sep '23

Is It Worth Leasing A New Car

When purchasing a new car, you’re going to be faced with various financing options for buying the vehicle.


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18 Sep '23

Unlocking the benefits of invoice finance

Unlike traditional loans, invoice financing offers another way. Borrowing against your invoices means that you can gain access to the money you are owed immediately.


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15 Sep '23

Melbourne investors eye off regional Queensland commercial property

The commercial property market in regional Queensland is experiencing a surge of interest from Melbourne investors, as the state's booming population continues to grow.


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13 Sep '23

The Shape of Australia’s future

What will the Australian community look like in 40 years? We look at the key takeaways from the Intergenerational Report.


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11 Sep '23

The case of the taxpayer who was paid too late

A recent case before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) is a reminder about the tax impact of the timing of employment income. 


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8 Sep '23

Legislating the objective of super

The proposed objective of superannuation released in recently released draft legislation is: ‘to preserve savings to deliver income for a dignified retirement, alongside government support, in an equitable and sustainable way.’


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6 Sep '23

The Billion Dollar TikTok Scandal

The TikTok tax fraud is extensive and has several layers of impact across the 56,000 taxpayers caught up in it.


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4 Sep '23

Succession: Taking your business to the next generation

Succession is not just a topic for a TV series or billionaire families, it’s about successfully transitioning your business and maximising its capital value.


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31 Aug '23

Subdividing? The tax implications and pitfalls of small scale subdivisions

New guidance from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) walks through the tax impact of small-scale subdivision projects.


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29 Aug '23

Why is my tax refund so small?

The tax refund many Australians expect has dramatically reduced.


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16 Aug '23

Demand for sublease space on the rise

With workers headed back into the office, demand for sublease space is rising – especially in the smaller capital cities.


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14 Aug '23

Is it worth leasing a motorbike?

For motorbike enthusiasts who always want the latest models, leasing is an attractive option. Leases allow you to regularly upgrade with the latest features.


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10 Aug '23

4 reasons to buy and sell in winter

One of the biggest advantages for sellers in winter is the lower supply of properties on the market. Sellers have the opportunity to attract a more focused and captive audience of buyers.


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9 Aug '23

5 Things To Consider Before Getting A Business Loan

Business loans are one method you can use to purchase a business or fund the ongoing operations of your current business. The first step is to clearly define the purpose of the loan.


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9 Aug '23

Strong demand for self-storage units

Self-storage units have long been a popular option for investors with demand from the private sector remaining high.


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7 Aug '23

3 reasons property prices are still rising

During COVID, listings were tight and demand remained strong. As interest rates started to climb, some of the demand started falling away, however, listings didn’t rise.


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2 Aug '23

Outer suburbs are being impacted most by higher rates

Despite interest rates rising at a record pace, the number of mortgage holders in arrears remains around the long-term average of 1%.


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31 Jul '23

70% of home buyers turned to a mortgage broker

The move toward mortgage brokers and away from direct lenders by borrowers is continuing to increase.


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24 Jul '23

5 things to consider before leasing business equipment

One solution used by many businesses is to lease the equipment. By choosing to lease, businesses can spread out the cost of the equipment over several years through manageable monthly payments


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21 Jul '23

Pros and Cons of selling a property off-market

Off-market normally just means that the property is sold without it ever being listed. This can be with the help of an agent, or privately.


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19 Jul '23

Negotiating a property purchase

When it comes to negotiating, there are some things you can do to make the process more transparent and easier. For the most part, it comes down to being prepared.


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19 Jul '23

1 July 2023 wage increases

On 1 July 2023, award rates of pay and the National Minimum Wage increased by 5.75%.


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17 Jul '23

Borrowers should consider fixed rate loans

With inflation still remaining high and continuing to increase the official cash rate, borrowers should consider returning to fixed rate loan products.


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