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.
Discover 9 essential financial planning tips to help new and expecting parents manage the costs of parenthood with confidence and ease.
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.
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:
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.
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.
The main residence exemption exempts your family home from capital gains tax (CGT) when you dispose of it.
It’s essential that any income earned from sharing economy platforms such as Airbnb, Stayz, Uber, etc., is declared in your tax return.
Legislation increasing the instant asset write-off threshold from $1,000 to $20,000 for the 2024 income year.
Will 2024-25 be another year of volatility or a return to stability?
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.
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.
Secured business loans play an important role in supporting small business owners.
The ATO has made a call to professional accountants to help identify and manage illegal early access to superannuation by members of SMSFs.
It’s important that generational succession is managed as closely and diligently.
The great wealth transfer from the baby boomer generation has begun and home ownership is the catalyst.
The ATO is cracking down on business owners who take money or use company resources for themselves.
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.
Technology has transformed the way businesses operate, allowing them to reach new customers, expand into new markets, and improve operational efficiency.
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.
Every business, regardless of its size or industry, shares a common goal: to grow and thrive in a competitive market.
A new issues paper from Treasury’s Competition Review questions whether non-competes and other restraints are limiting job opportunities and movement.
For many small business owners, their business is their largest asset and for many, one that is expected to help fund their retirement.
The ATO has signalled that it is willing to pursue professional services firms who divert profits to avoid tax.
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.
The ATO has issued a warning to trustees of SMSFs about sloppy valuation practices.
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.
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.
A recent case highlights the dangers of taking money out of a company without carefully considering the tax implications.
The revised stage 3 tax cuts have passed Parliament and will come into effect on 1 July 2024.
From 1 July 2024, the amount you can contribute to super will increase.
Thousands of taxpayers and their agents were advised by the Australian Taxation Office that they had an outstanding historical tax debt.
In Australia, testamentary trusts have become useful for more people than ever before. They're not just for the wealthy anymore.
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.
As a small business owner or employee on wages, planning for your future includes managing your superannuation effectively.
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.
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.
The problem when the evidence doesn’t match what the taxpayer tells the ATO.
An SMSF can invest in property development if trustees ensure the investment complies with the rules.
An agreement states that a worker is an independent contractor, this does not mean that they are a contractor for tax and superannuation purposes.
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
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.
Home is the biggest expense and the sooner you can pay down the debt, the better off you’re going to be financially.
With affordability challenges in major cities, buyers may explore "bridesmaid suburbs" – second-choice areas that offer more reasonable property prices.
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.
Without the need for upfront payments, asset finance can play an important role in improving a business's cash flow management.
After a tough year for commercial property investors, the outlook will be better in 2024, according to an expert.
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.
Legislation enabling an extra 15% tax on earnings on super balances above $3m is before Parliament.
Uncertainty has reigned over the last few years, but can we expect more consistency as we head into 2024.
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.
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.
A budgeting app is an app designed to help you optimise the spending and savings choices you make each month.
We'll dive into some of the everyday mistakes and tricky grouping issues that small businesses often encounter when dealing with payroll tax.
Maintaining control over cash flow is undeniably a complex balancing act. It's a challenge that lacks a quick and universal solution.
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.
Prepare Your Business for a Successful New Year - Challenging conditions, unpredictable supply chains, and increasing inflation highlight the importance of expert financial support.
A dedicated construction and trade accountant possesses an in-depth understanding of the sector's unique requirements and intricacies.
The journey often begins with businesses adopting simple ownership structures, yet as they progress and expand, intricate challenges emerge.
While any accountant can handle trade-related finances, opting for a specialist in the trades industry offers unique advantages.
Regularly monitoring your income and expenses is crucial. These practices will help keep your financial standing robust.
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.
New legislation before Parliament, if enacted, will make zero or low emission vehicles FBT-free. We explore who can access the concession and how.
Despite the 13 interest rate increases in 19 months, your mortgage interest rate could and should still start with a ‘5’.
If you have an investment property loan and redraw on the loan for a different purpose the loan account becomes a mixed purpose account.
A recent case before the AAT demonstrates how fine the dividing line is between GST-free and taxable foods.
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.
“Wage-theft” is illegal in Queensland, South Australia and Victoria under State laws.
The statistics on employer superannuation guarantee (SG) compliance look pretty good with over $71 billion, collected without intervention from the regulators in 2020-21.
With inflation remaining high, interest rates are likely to stay at elevated levels for some time.
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.
Accountants play a crucial role in providing expertise and guidance to businesses during their startup and initial growth stages.
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.
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.
The recent rate hikes by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) have understandably put borrowers under pressure.
Property investors that choose to utilise their property for short-term stays (or leave it vacant) are firmly in the sights of the regulators.
Treasury has released draft legislation to enact the Government’s plan to increase the tax rate on superannuation balances above $3m.
As your business expands, the need for a specialised and strategic business accountant who can provide ongoing advice and guidance becomes increasingly evident.
The Australian Taxation Office have released a new draft ruling on self-education expenses.
Electricity is the new black. Gas and other fossil fuels are out. A new, limited incentive nudges business towards energy efficiency.
In the wake of COVID-19, Australian offices have undergone a significant shift – and things aren’t likely to change anytime soon.
New listings have risen by 13.2% through the winter season, driven by a 17.9% rise across the capital cities.
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.
When purchasing a new car, you’re going to be faced with various financing options for buying the vehicle.
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.
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.
What will the Australian community look like in 40 years? We look at the key takeaways from the Intergenerational Report.
A recent case before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) is a reminder about the tax impact of the timing of employment income.
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.’
The TikTok tax fraud is extensive and has several layers of impact across the 56,000 taxpayers caught up in it.
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.
New guidance from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) walks through the tax impact of small-scale subdivision projects.
The tax refund many Australians expect has dramatically reduced.
With workers headed back into the office, demand for sublease space is rising – especially in the smaller capital cities.
For motorbike enthusiasts who always want the latest models, leasing is an attractive option. Leases allow you to regularly upgrade with the latest features.
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.
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.
Self-storage units have long been a popular option for investors with demand from the private sector remaining high.
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.
Despite interest rates rising at a record pace, the number of mortgage holders in arrears remains around the long-term average of 1%.
The move toward mortgage brokers and away from direct lenders by borrowers is continuing to increase.
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
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.
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.
On 1 July 2023, award rates of pay and the National Minimum Wage increased by 5.75%.
With inflation still remaining high and continuing to increase the official cash rate, borrowers should consider returning to fixed rate loan products.
Industrial property market has seen the vacancy rate hit another new record low despite projections of a surge in supply.
The digital games and interactive entertainment sector is the largest creative sector in the world and one of the fastest growing industries worldwide.
Office assets were considered a premium commercial investment choice, with high demand from offshore buyers.
The 120% skills and training, and technology costs deduction for small and medium business have passed Parliament.
Investors remained focused on the release of inflation data and how ongoing pricing pressures might affect monetary policy settings in key regions.
Bianca Carroll's dedication and commitment to excellence have culminated in her being recognized as the Emerging Adviser of the Year, a remarkable accomplishment that is a testament to her perseverance.
In a recent Harvard Study on the key ingredients to happiness, while extreme wealth won’t buy you happiness, having financial security can help you avoid stress and solve problems faster.
Over the past few years, service stations have been a favoured investment option.
Industrial property is putting upward pressure on rents, according to a new report from Savills
As EOFY approaches, it's important that Australian businesses prepare for their tax responsibilities and reassess their financial strategies.
One of the most common mistakes when refinancing a car loan is to ignore your credit score.
A pre-approval is simply a lender indicating they’d be willing to loan a certain amount to a potential buyer. However, it's important to remember that a pre-approval is not a guaranteed loan.
With the cost of living surging, many Australians likely wish their mortgage was already paid off.
Upside Realty found a significant increase in open home attendance across Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.
The end of the financial year is always a busy time for property investors, however, with the right preparation you can make the most of your available deductions.
SMEs face new challenges and opportunities with the ESG trend. This article offers a balanced breakdown of ESG, its varying perspectives, implications for SMEs, and the pros and cons.
Recently, Fair Work legislation has been amended in a number of areas and if you’re a business owner with employees, you should be across these.
The Government has announced that it will enshrine a right to superannuation payments in the National Employment Standards (NES).
Reduce interest on the non-deductible debt by using company cash to offset their personal mortgage, then transferring the cashback by 30 June.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has launched a full-on assault on rental property owners who incorrectly report income and expenses.
From 1 July 2023, access to the Government’s Home Guarantee Scheme will be expanded to joint applications from friends, siblings, and other family members.
In a pre-Budget announcement, the Government has committed to a Small Business Energy Incentive Scheme that offers a bonus tax deduction of up to $20,000.
The 2023-24 Federal Budget offers a $4.2bn surplus; the first in 15 years. The surplus was driven by a surge in the corporate and individual tax take.
When looking to purchase a new car, there are many different ways to use finance to help you secure your vehicle.
With the ups and downs of the property market, investors and homebuyers often wonder when the right time to buy really is.
Despite international travel starting to pick up again, demand for caravans is still high.
New research has found that it has been the smaller cities of Hobart, Adelaide and Canberra that have been the strongest-performing property markets over the past two decades.
Buy now, pay later services that allow consumers to make purchases and have grown in popularity. However, for homebuyers, there might be risks that they are not aware of.
Rising interest rates and the surging cost of living are putting more Australians under mortgage stress, according to a new report.
Regional areas and high-end Sydney suburbs dominate the list of suburbs bouncing back the fastest, according to CoreLogic.
Establishing a medical or dental practice is a big undertaking. The most effective ways to purchase medical equipment is with the help of asset finance.
Demand for office space is slowly starting to recover, with a new report showing Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth rents are moving higher.
Over the past 12 months, the value of residential approvals has declined 3.15% while the value of non-residential developments continues to grow, up 3.61%.
For the contribution to be counted towards the employee’s 2023 contribution cap, it must be received by the fund by 30 June 2024.
Now's the time to review what strategies you can use to minimise your tax before 30 June 2024.
After higher interest rates weighed on values during the second half of 2022, prices have now rebounded 0.43% since the start of the year.
A recent survey found that 75 percent of borrowers could find themselves unable to refinance because of life decisions that they were preparing to make.
Refinancing your motorcycle loan is not always something people think about. But there are several advantages that borrowers can capitalise on.
Lenders typically require a significant amount of documentation and proof of income for self-employed borrowers, and their lack of a steady income can make it difficult.
Buying properties off-the-plan has become a popular way for home buyers and investors to purchase property.
There is currently a significant shortage of quality life science facilities in Australia and only a small number of investors are seeking exposure in this emerging asset class.
According to CBRE, Australian hotel sales reached $2.14 billion in 2022, the second-highest transaction volume on record.
Renewing your invoice finance contract is an important decision that can significantly impact your business's cash flow.
The ATO guidance (PCG 2021/4) totally changes the way that professional firm profits can be allocated (or split) among a family group from 1 July 2022 onwards.
In the lead-up to 30 June 2023, we want you to be aware of opportunities to save tax with super contributions.
In the lead up to 30 June 2023, we want you to know why using a bucket company can be a great strategy for saving tax on trust profits distributed.
In the lead-up to 30 June 2023, you can avoid paying an extra tax of up to 47% of Trust profits by completing your Trust Distribution Resolutions before 30 June.
When an accountant talks about Tax Planning what do they actually mean? As part of our tax advisory service we always offer strategic tax advisory, but it's important to note there are a lot of things that accountants cannot implement after June 30.
To maximise your deductions and ensure that your tax return is complete, please review the following items and advise your Accountant if any apply to you.
Understand what expenses you can claim as a property investor.
Everyone wants to pay less tax, right? To do that you need to know what you can claim… and what you can’t.
Why should you lodge an FBT return where no FBT is payable? Well, for the simple reason that it turns on a three-year deadline for the ATO to commence audit activities. This is a NEW ATO rule as a result of massive deficits due to COVID. The ATO need to gain more funds somehow...FBT liability is one of the methods.
The ATO is more than a little concerned that people with holiday homes are claiming more deductions than they should.
The amount of money that can potentially hold in a tax-free retirement account, will increase by $200,000 on 1 July 2023.
A consultation paper released by Treasury has sparked a national debate about the role, purpose and access to superannuation.
The Government has announced that from 2025‑26, the 15% concessional tax rate applied to future earnings for superannuation.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has updated its approach to how you claim expenses for working from home.
A chattel mortgage is a popular way for businesses to purchase large assets such as machinery and vehicles.
A new report by CBRE has found that incredibly tight vacancy rates across the residential and industrial property markets are likely to lead to a “rent-a-demic” in 2023.
The number of new development projects aimed at investors is slowing down, which could lead to more rental market pressures according to new research.
One of the biggest expenses people face outside of their mortgage is the cost of buying and owning a car.
It’s important to approach property investing with a strategic mindset to help you avoid some of the common pitfalls.
Conveyancing involves the legal transfer of ownership of a property from one person to another.
With rapidly rising interest rates and the escalating cost of living, borrowers are once again looking at a loan deferral as a way to get back on track.
Experts generally recommend checking the health of your home loan each year to make sure it remains the right fit.
Accountants have emerged from the pandemic into a blizzard of changes and keeping clients up to date risks a backlash over tighter compliance rules and increased fees.
When determining whether you should pay all cash or look to finance the car is always going to be based on your personal situation.
The process begins when the sale contract is signed and officially concludes on settlement day.
Rising interest rates and sky-high property prices have made homeownership tougher for first time buyers.
With strong capital growth and tight vacancy rates driving up rents, more and more investors have been looking to regional areas.
With home prices rising substantially over the past decade, homeowners are often sitting on a large amount of equity that they could use for other things.
If you’re looking to purchase business equipment, vehicles or just looking to better manage your short-term cash requirements, asset finance can be a big advantage.
Service stations were some of the strongest performing assets, with transactions up 50 per cent during 2022.
The record run of industrial rent growth is finally showing its first signs of easing after posting a 23 per cent rise in 2022.
The latest innovation to take the world by storm is ChatGPT, and its ability to work with the Australian tax system.
The ATO has released its final position on how it will apply some integrity rules dealing with trust distributions.
From 1 January 2023, those 55 and over can make a ‘downsizer’ contribution to superannuation.
The downside of not taking time out for your strategy is that there is a tendency to keep a short-term. Sometimes in the process, this short-term focus undermines longer term value and returns.
Smart Business Solutions chief executive Shannon Smit, winner of SMSF Adviser of the Year award, talks about the evolution of her business and shares her insights on complex SMSF planning issues.
Getting a good grasp of your business’s cash flow situation will help put you in a strong financial position.
You will be amazed in this race against time to reach the finish line. Welcome to The Amazing Race memoir - Smart Business Solutions 2022 End of Year Team Building and Christmas party.
The Government’s ‘Secure Jobs, Better Pay’ legislation passed Parliament on 2 December 2022.
If you are required to but have not yet applied for your ID, you should seek an extension immediately.
The most effective way of sharing Christmas joy with customers is not necessarily the most tax effective.
Here are the 5 signs you personally should look out for when deciding whether or not you should hire a professional bookkeeper.
Legislation before Parliament will lift penalties for serious or repeated privacy breaches, and provide new powers to the Australian Information Commissioner.
If you’re famous and make an income from your fame and image, the way the ATO believes you should be taxed on the income you make may change.
In July, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) reported a new wave of ‘Tax refund SMSF scams’.
With seven months before the 2023-24 Budget released in May 2023, this Budget is a shuffling of the deck not a new set of cards.
The traditional diversification strategies of super funds are failing, and a worsening inflation.
The Optus data breach is top of mind for a lot of Australians, particularly those who have had their data breached.
The Queensland Government has backed away from an amendment that would have seen the land tax rate for investment property in Queensland.
The value of cryptocurrency assets inside Australian self managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) increased by 589.9%.
UK Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng announced a series of tax cuts, including the reduction of the top personal income tax rate.
New guidelines for professional services firms - lawyers, architects, medical practitioners etc., came into effect on 1 July 2022.
National Cabinet agreed to end the mandatory isolation requirements for COVID-19 effective from 14 October 2022. Each state and territory has, or will, implement the end of the isolation rules.
The Australian government has reinvigorated the 120% skills training and technology costs deduction for small and medium business.
Clients with self managed superannuation funds (SMSF) often ask what assets the SMSF can acquire.
There are two key components at play in the sale of a business: structuring the transaction; and positioning the business to the market.
The tax system currently allows Australia to tax payments made by an Australian customer in relation to technical services provided by an Indian firm.
23:59 UTC on 20 September 2022 is the cut-off to register for your .au direct domain.
The $2,000 Small Business Specialist Advice Pathways Program Grants are for small business to employing small businesses to access financial and legal advice and services to inform current and future business decisions.
Annual reviews are a powerful business tool. They provide insight into the past year through analysing metrics and other data.
Climate change featured heavily during the election and now the Albanese Government is putting into place some of the promises it made. We look at the current state of play and the likely impact.
The RBA lifted the cash rate to 1.85% in early August 2022. With interest rates rising, what can we expect?
The ATO has released updated information on claiming cryptocurrency losses and gains in your tax return.
ONLINE Webinar: Insurance Stripped Bare - What you really need to protect your assets
For the majority of small to medium sized business owners, the value of your business is your biggest asset, and very likely, your retirement fund.
If you perform some of your work from your home office, you may be able to claim a deduction for the costs you incur in running your home office, even if the room is not set aside solely for work-related purposes.
If you’ve owned your home for a decent period of time, or you’re ahead on your mortgage repayments, then you can potentially use some of the
equity to purchase assets such as a car.
The number of cranes in operation across Australia continues to rise, with a steady increase across the commercial sector.
The Property Council of Australia's latest Office Occupancy survey found that Perth’s office occupancy rate continued to improve between May and June (63 to 65 per cent), and Melbourne’s lifted slightly (48 to 49 per cent), while occupancy levels in the ACT declined (60 to 53 per cent).
Debt levels have been steadily rising over the past few decades, but it’s important to understand that not all debt is bad. If you’re finding yourself getting into too much debt through the use of credit cards, there are a few steps you can do to get out of it.
With upward pressure on prices across many sectors of the economy, being able to effectively manage your cash flow is more important than ever. One way businesses can help their cash flow is to finance their heavy or costly equipment.
Rentvesting involves renting where you want to live and investing in a property elsewhere so you can get your foot on the property ladder.
For the majority of small to medium sized business owners, the value of your business is your biggest asset, and very likely, your retirement fund.
It doesn’t matter how much you have. It’s what you do with it that counts.
Everyone knows you don't pay tax on the sale of your family home, right..? We take a closer look at the main residence exemption that excludes your home from capital gains tax and the triggers that reduce or exclude that exemption.
Whether you need to finalise Single Touch Payroll data or produce payment summaries, this checklist will help you navigate the end of year payroll process from start to finish.
There has been some confusion on what the minimum wage increase and superannuation increase means to small business employers.
Many investors become concerned when volatility occurs in global financial markets – particularly about the impact on their superannuation and other investments. In times like these, it is important to understand the causes of market movements and how to minimise your risk.
Prices on everyday essentials like food, petrol and medicine have increased significantly, impacting us all. Managing these price hikes is even more difficult when you’re living on a fixed income. We unpack how we got here and set out some things you can do to increase your buying power.
Industrial property has been one of the best performers over the past two years and its record run should continue, according to a leading expert.
On the back of a strong Australian economy and solid property market, office investment is set to surge according to new analysis from Knight Frank.
When people buy a car these days, many will use some form of finance. While using finance to purchase a car can help you get the vehicle you want now, it’s important to make sure you’re properly comparing loan options and not just taking what a dealership has to offer.
With interest rates tipped to rise as the RBA begins to return the cash rate to a more normal level, homeowners are wondering what the best way to handle this new environment might be.
As we head towards June 30, it's important to know what last minute tax deductions and changes are imminent. Bianca gives us a concise 5 minute summary on the new superannuation rules effective from 1 July 2022.
Your superannuation is often an under-utilised vehicle to the retirement and lifestyle that you have envisioned.
In the 2019–20 Budget, the government announced that Single Touch Payroll (STP) would be expanded to include additional information.
Inflationary forces continued to intensify in key regions, which suggested inter- est rates could be raised more quickly and more aggressively than previously anticipated. The likelihood of rising borrowing costs also appeared to spook equity markets, which performed poorly over the month.
Throughout March, the ATO sent letters to directors who are potentially in breach of their obligations to ensure that the company they represent has met its PAYG withholding, superannuation guarantee charge, or GST obligations.
It’s a great headline isn’t it? Spend $100 and get a $120 tax deduction. Days after the Federal Budget announcement that businesses will be able to claim a 120% deduction for expenditure on training and technology costs, we started receiving marketing emails encouraging us to spend now to access the deduction.
A series of reforms and changes will commence on 1 July 2022. Here’s what is coming up:
The Government temporarily halved the excise and excise equivalent customs duty rates for petrol, diesel and all other petroleum-based products (except aviation fuels) for 6 months from 30 March 2022 until 28 September 2022.
The ATO have issued a press release indicating their current approach on debt collection. They want taxpayers to engage with them, ie respond to calls, set up a payment plan or expect firm action.
As we approach the end of the financial year, there are a number of smart strategies you could consider to help streamline your finances and legitimately reduce your tax liability.
It can be lonely at the top of the food-chain when you're running your own business. As the owner manager, the buck stops with you and that can result in pressures from all aspects of the business.
The war in Ukraine overshadowed financial markets throughout the month, but hopes of a breakthrough in peace talks lifted sentiment towards risk assets. Solid gains among US-listed stocks helped the MSCI World Index rise more than 3%.
ATO getting about as serious as they can get with their non-public debt recovery measures.
Our new system enables us to download all ATO mail on behalf of our clients and distribute it in the most efficient manner possible.
On 31 March, the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) year ends. With the ever increasing budget deficits, the ATO will be reviewing whether all employers who should be paying FBT are, and that they are paying the right amount. Who needs to lodge a FBT return? Find out here.
This is a safe, ballot box friendly Budget as expected with a focus on jobs, cost of living, home ownership, and health.
Two landmark cases before the High Court highlight the problem of identifying whether a worker is an independent contractor or employee for tax and superannuation purposes.
The ATO released a package of new guidance material that directly targets how trusts distribute income. Many family groups will pay higher taxes as a result.
Unlike other purchases, it’s not possible to return a car if you get home and decide you don’t like it.
With interest rates at record low levels, many homeowners are considering the possibility of fixing their interest rate on the home loan.
Lenders Mortgage Insurance can be a great tool to help homebuyers get into a property that they otherwise might not be able to afford. However, it comes with a cost.
After a strong 12 months, industrial property is set to see further upside according to a leading valuer.
If you’re setting the goal of purchasing a home in the coming year, it might be time to start getting your financials in order ahead of time.
Up against over 600 nominations and 254 certified finalists, Shannon Smit, Founding Director and Financial Adviser at Mornington firm, SMART Financial Planning, won the coveted Financial Adviser of the Year Award as one of only 23 individual award winners.
Whilst retention payments are very common in the building and construction industry we continually see them being incorrectly accounted for, or not accounted for, and therefore often overlooked, resulting in advance payment of taxes and/or lost income.
We are heading into a period of opening up the economy after COVID, with the need to repair the budget, an election looming by May 2022, the threat of inflation and a withdrawal of central bank stimulus.
While commercial property is a little more difficult to understand than residential, it offers several significant advantages for investors.
With the trade industry currently thriving off the boom in the housing market, tradies find themselves busier than ever. The $1200 Small Business Digital Adaptation Program can help you work out ways to make admin life easier.
New legislation will help prevent superannuation assets from being hidden during divorce proceedings. From 1 April 2022, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will be able to release details of an individual’s superannuation information to a family law court.
Australia’s two largest states and the ACT are in lockdown as the Delta strain of COVID-19 takes its toll while others are standing firm on a policy of eradication. The result is a country at a policy impasse and divided by border restrictions.
Australian shares started the FY22 year with solid gains. Bond yields fell sharply, resulting in favourable returns from fixed income markets too.
Helping you lead & manage your business better. A webinar in collaboration with Mornington Peninsula Shire Council as part of their Small Business Workshops.
Your tax refund can seem like winning the lottery. But it's not - it is your own hard-earned cash. So how can you make it work as hard for you as you did earning it?
Taking care of your mental health during lockdown periods becomes really essential. Shared by Simon Fraser University Health & Counselling Services: 25 tips to help you and your loved ones navigate this time.
Now that the new financial year is here, it’s time to start looking at all the ways you can make the most of your investment property. If you want to claim your expenses on your rental property, it’s vital that you have good records.
Most people would assume that if and when they need to claim on their insurance, the insurance payout covers the damage and is not income assessed for tax purposes - but this is not always the case.
If you worked from home during lockdown and spent money on work related items that were not reimbursed by your business, you might be able to claim some of these expenses as a deduction – but not everything you purchase can be claimed.
With the spring selling season just around the corner and property markets looking very strong, many potential sellers are looking at ways to spruce up their homes.
There are a few changes earmarked for superannuation commencing 1 July 2021. These changes will impact both employers and employees. Read the details here to know what's expected.
If you have a home loan, there are many reasons you may consider refinancing. That could include wanting to borrow more, access different home loan features or simply to get a better interest rate. We explore the more common reasons for refinancing, including a few you may not have thought of.
There are several reasons motivating homeowners to refinance. It could be to achieve a lower interest rate or move from a fixed rate to a variable rate loan or vice-versa. If you’re thinking about switching loans, you need to consider the costs of any penalties – if relevant – versus any savings you stand to make.
Directors will be required to register for a unique identification number that they will keep for life, much like a tax file number under a rewrite of Australia’s business registers.
How a trust distribution resolution is worded directly impacts the tax liability. It is important not because it determines what is taxable but because it is the basis for determining where the tax liability falls.
The 2021-22 Federal Budget is a balancing act between a better than anticipated deficit ($106 bn), an impending election, and the need to invest in the long term.
Small brewers and distillers will benefit from $255 million in tax relief to support more jobs and investment as part of the 2021-22 Budget.
The rollout of Covid vaccines remained the key focus worldwide. More than 30% of adults in the US have now received at least one jab, for example, and new infections are down by around 80% since the peak in January.
Here’s a guide to the strategies you can use to minimise your business tax.
Now's the time to review what strategies you can use to minimise your tax before 30 June 2022.
Builders, electricians, plumbers, architects, real estate agents, security guards and other workers who hold an occupational licence in their home state or territory will soon be automatically deemed to have the necessary licence in other states.
What’s the magic amount you need in your super account to retire comfortably?
A car fringe benefit commonly arises when an employer makes a car they own or lease available for the private use of an employee.
An everyday occurrence across the business landscape in Australia is the practice of taking both existing and potential clients out for a meal to cement the business relationship, with the cost of this meal often covered by one party.
The ATO has signalled that there will be an increased focus on FBT this year. Given the ever-improving tools at the ATO’s disposal, in conjunction with the government’s need to raise additional revenues, it is important that employers ensure they remain compliant with their FBT requirements.
With the borders between the State and Territories all but open and 2021 in sight, there is a hunger for a return to normal. With Australia's desire to ‘get on with things,' sentiment reached its highest level since November 2013 and Christmas spending is expected to be consistent with previous years.
We’ve had quite a few questions about the JobMaker hiring credit announced in the 2020-21 Federal Budget. The legislation enabling the JobMaker scheme has not passed Parliament as yet and until this occurs, the JobMaker rules are not certain and may change.
The idea of insuring against loss of income is one that has clear value. The idea of insuring against loss of income is one that has clear value. Yet many neglect to insure their most valuable asset. Income protection could be the answer – so how does it work?
The 2020-21 Federal Budget is a road to recovery paved with cash. Some of the measures are aimed at addressing the harsh lessons COVID-19
has taught us and seek to centralise production back in Australia to ensure our industries can be self-reliant.
Reflecting on the past 6 months, particularly since the effect of Coronavirus on financial markets, I am concerned that many investors do not have a clear and tailored investment strategy. My observations are that investors seem to be failing to understand one basic investment principle; 'The higher the return the higher the risk’.
The updated alternative tests released by the Commissioner of Taxation are broadly similar to the alternative tests that were released in connection with the original decline in turnover test. However, there are some key differences.
To access JobKeeper payments from 28 September 2020, there are three questions that need to be assessed:
Is my business eligible? Am I and/or my employees eligible? and What JobKeeper rate applies?
We’ve summarised the key details in this update.
Over 2 days, the Victorian Government has announced two new support packages delivering over $3 billion in “cash grants, tax relief and cashflow support.
If you are selling your business, merging, acquiring, or inviting in new investors, you need to understand the value of your business. But, to what degree does the pandemic impact on value?
COVID-19 has had an impact on many SMSFs. We look at the key issues.
If your business currently receives JobKeeper, your arrangements will generally remain unchanged until 27 September 2020. From 28 September 2020, employers seeking to claim JobKeeper payments will need to reassess their eligibility and prove an actual decline in turnover.
The Government has announced the $2.5bn JobTrainer package to retrain, upskill and open new job opportunities.
Minimum wage increases by 1.75% plus changes to Paid Parental Leave for the self employed.
Will the Prime Minister’s targeted $250 million package of funding to support cultural and creative projects and initiatives save the industry?
Two major Australian Taxation Office (ATO) initiatives are searching out fraud and schemes designed to take advantage of the Government’s Coronavirus Economic Response Package.
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