Is ‘downsizing’ worth it?

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Is ‘downsizing’ worth it? 


From 1 January 2023, those 55 and over can make a ‘downsizer’ contribution to superannuation.

Downsizer contributions are an excellent way to get money into superannuation quickly. And now that the age limit has reduced to 55 from 60, more people have an opportunity to use this strategy if it suits their needs.  




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We provide strategic business and tax advisory, underpinned by our expertise in financial planning to ensure we develop financial structures that are smart and well considered.


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25 Sep

Navigating the Changing Legal Landscape: Key Updates for Employers

WEBINAR 25 SEPT // 12PM

The final session focuses on the changing legal environment, highlighting recent amendments to the Fair Work Act, capturing independent contractors under workers' compensation schemes, payroll tax considerations, superannuation compliance, and practical steps to mitigate risks.


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19 Sep

Episode 15: Baby Boomers & The Great Wealth Transfer

In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, host Shannon Smith discusses the massive wealth transfer expected from Baby Boomers to the next generation, estimated at $84 trillion. Shannon highlights the opportunities and challenges of this transfer, focusing on estate planning, tax liabilities


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19 Sep

The Great Wealth Transfer: What Baby Boomers Need to Know About Preserving and Passing Down Wealth

Over the coming years, we’re about to witness the largest wealth transfer in history as Baby Boomers pass their hard-earned fortunes to younger generations. With an estimated $84 trillion set to be transferred, mostly from savings, investments, and real estate, this shift holds both incredible opportunities and significant challenges for families.


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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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18 Sep

Will You Pay More For Aged Care in 2025?

Changes to aged care fees are coming, and they will impact both home care and residential care. After a long wait and lots of speculation, the government has released details of the proposed changes.


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16 Sep

Aged Care Financial Advice Case Studies

Our aged-care financial advice case studies showcase real scenarios where our clients saved thousands by leveraging strategies regarding the family home, negotiating RADs and optimising care facility choices.


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11 Sep

Super Guarantee and Employee Terminations: Compliance Essentials for Employers

WEBINAR 11 SEPT // 12PM

In the third session, we'll delve into superannuation guarantee changes, including proposed changes to payday superannuation, new rates and bases, and the impact on SG liability. Gain insights into employer deductions, termination of employment considerations and more.


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11 Sep

How to record bad debts in Xero


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11 Sep

How to record incorrect payment against an invoice in Xero


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4 Sep

Allowances, FBT, and Compliance for Employers

WEBINAR 4 SEPT // 12PM

Master allowances and reimbursements, understand their PAYG and super guarantee implications, and learn to navigate travel vs. living-away-from-home allowances. Gain insights into FBT considerations, new ATO record-keeping requirements, and effective salary packaging arrangements.


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2 Sep

4 factors that influence car loan interest rate

Understanding the factors that influence your interest rate can help you secure a better deal.


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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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30 Aug

Motorbike Loan Or Personal Loan?

The choice between a motorbike loan and a personal loan depends on your financial situation, credit profile and preferences.


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28 Aug

Will BNPL or Online Betting Impact Your Mortgage Application?

When applying for a mortgage, lenders scrutinise your financial habits to assess your creditworthiness.


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28 Aug

Employee vs Contractor: Know the differences and get your employment right

WEBINAR 28 AUG// 12PM

Explore the crucial differences between employees and contractors. We'll discuss when genuine contractors are considered employees for PAYG withholding and SG, key factors determining employment or contract arrangements, and new guidance from the ATO.


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26 Aug

Selling your investment property with a lease in place this Spring

As a landlord, there are several things to consider when deciding to sell a property with a current lease this Spring.


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24 Aug

6 factors to consider when choosing an investment property this spring

With Spring selling season just around the corner, it can be a great time for buyers to find an investment property.


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23 Aug

Million-Dollar suburbs set to surge across Australia

The number of Australian suburbs with an average house price of $1 million or more is expected to increase significantly in the coming year.


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21 Aug

5 Benefits Of Asset Finance For Australian Manufacturers

Asset finance is a powerful tool that allows manufacturing businesses to acquire essential equipment and technology without large upfront costs.


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19 Aug

Mitigating risks in debtor finance

Debtor finance offers a great way for businesses to better manage their cash flow.


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16 Aug

Online retail slowdown impacts industrial property outlook

The rapid growth in online retail sales during the pandemic has plateaued, potentially affecting demand for industrial property.


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15 Aug

Brisbane property prices could surge 50% by 2032

Property prices in Brisbane could see a boom of over 50% in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics.


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13 Aug

Episode 14: Process Perfection: Crafting a Lean, Agile Business with Systems

Systemisation is more than just a buzzword—it's a game-changer for businesses aiming to achieve sustainable growth. In our recent podcast episode, I had the chance to explore this topic with Dave Jenyns, the visionary founder of SYSTEMology and SYSTEMhub.


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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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12 Aug

CASE STUDY: The A.I First Accountant feat. Shannon Smit

Explore how adopting an AI-first approach can transform businesses! David Jenyns from Systemology chats with Shannon Smit who shares how AI and robotic process automation (RPA) have revolutionised the operations at Smart Business Solutions.


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12 Aug

Foreign investors dominate commercial property market

Investment in Australia's commercial property market surged in the second quarter of 2024, with foreign investors leading the charge in major office acquisitions.


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10 Aug

The Employer Essentials Series

WEBINARS // THE EMPLOYER ESSENTIALS SERIES (4 PART)

Join us for a comprehensive 4-part webinar series designed for small business owners seeking growth and better financial management. Presented by Shannon Smit from Smart Business Solutions, each session will delve into critical aspects of compliance review framework for workers and employers, providing practical insights and strategies to help you navigate complex financial landscapes and make informed decisions.


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8 Aug

Now is the time to invest in commercial property

Rapid population growth, high construction costs, and significant interest rate cuts forecasts will provide a strong tailwind to the sector.


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5 Aug

Exise Tax Explained

Understanding and effectively managing excise tax is crucial for the success of distilleries and craft alcohol producers in Australia. With proper planning and strategic execution, businesses can thrive in this heavily regulated yet dynamic market.


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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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12 Jul

Brisbane overtakes Canberra as property prices hit new highs

Property prices continue to go from strength to strength with new data showing values are once again reaching record highs.


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12 Jul

How single-income can manage the rising cost of living

Inflation in Australia is still elevated at 3.6 per cent, managing on a single income is tougher than ever.


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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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10 Jul

City-Siders Heading For Regional Australia

Cost of living pressures is seeing an increasing number of Australians headed for an easier life in regional suburbs.


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10 Jul

Episode 13: Beyond the Surface: A Deep Dive into Mental Health at Work

In this podcast, we talk with Mick Simmons, founder of Mental Health Safety Net, a grass-roots organisation that provides suicide awareness training to workplaces and schools. Trigger Warning: This episode has content related to suicide and mental health issues.


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10 Jul

What you need to know about equipment loans

Equipment loans are an important financial tool that allows businesses to acquire the necessary machinery and tools without straining their cash flow.


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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

Why the push for companies to do the right thing is good for Australian share market investors

As tensions between Australia’s largest companies, their customers, and the federal government flare, companies such as Woolworths, AMP, and Qantas are placing a higher priority on measuring their community reputation.


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3 Jul

Considering an offshore retirement? Four things to do before you go

Australia has become an expensive place to live, so it’s not surprising that the lure to retire at an idyllic, low-cost, offshore location is getting a lot of attention. We discuss the pros and cons.


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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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3 Jul

The office market evolving to meet demand

The traditional office is getting a shake-up as landlords are being forced to adapt to new working environments.


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1 Jul

Caravan parks are in hot demand

Investors continue to seek out caravan parks, after a resurgence in the sector during the lockdown years.


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1 Jul

Daniel McCulloch appointed to Partner

We are thrilled to announce that Daniel McCulloch has been promoted to Partner at Smart Business Solutions Group. His promotion to Partner is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the high level of service he consistently delivers. 


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28 Jun

Why winter is the best time to buy a caravan

Winter deals can help you find a caravan within your price range without compromising on quality.


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27 Jun

Why EOFY is the best time to buy a new car

The End of Financial Year (EOFY) can be a great time if you’re in the market for a new car.


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27 Jun

Preparing for the EOFY for property investors

As the EOFY approaches, property investors need to be proactive to ensure they are in the best position to negotiate tax time.


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27 Jun

The Impact of Mental Health Awareness Training on Small Business


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26 Jun

Industrial property becomes a prime asset

The industrial sector is currently experiencing limited supply and high demand as the population grows.


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25 Jun

Shore up your cash flow before EOFY

Using various forms of finance is a viable strategy to ensure you start the new financial year with strong cash flow.


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24 Jun

Episode 12: Time Management Like A Boss

It’s time to take control of your time. It’s time to stop being ‘busy’ and start being ‘productive’. It’s time to learn how to invest your time to create your best life. Kate Christie has taught time to thousands of professionals and business owners around the world – exactly how to find hours of extra time and then design their best lives. What would 30 extra hours a month mean to you?


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20 Jun

Smart Wins Multiservice Firm of the Year

We are thrilled to announce that SMART Business Solutions Group has been awarded the prestigious Multiservice Firm of the Year at the 2024 Australian Accounting Awards! This recognition is a testament to our commitment to excellence, innovation, and the comprehensive range of services we provide to our valued clients.


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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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17 Jun

Episode 11: How to Attract, Mentor and Keep Great Staff

Heather Gallagher has spearheaded transformative initiatives in the mortgage broker space through her role as Head of Training and Education at outsource Financial. She has been instrumental in empowering brokers and administrative staff through tailored mentoring programs and weekly learning sessions.


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4 Jun

Qualifying For A Car Loan As A Casual Worker

One of the main considerations when applying for a car loan as a casual worker is your income.


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31 May

Median house prices to hit $1.34 million

Property prices could be about to climb higher with new analysis predicting the major capital cities will see significant growth in the next three years.


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29 May

Property prices reach another record high

Property prices have hit yet another record, with capital city house prices rising by 1 percent.


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28 May

How To Add Long Service Leave in Xero


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27 May

Getting Your RAD back

Accommodation payments (called Refundable Accommodation Deposits – RADs for short) are one of the most misunderstood areas of residential aged care. Many people don’t realise that a RAD is not “lost” money but is refundable when you leave care or pass away.


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27 May

Strategies To Generate Equity Faster

Creating equity isn’t always about spending time in the market. You can also manufacture equity if you buy well and implement some proven strategies.


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27 May

What does the Federal Budget mean for aged care?

This year’s Federal Budget focussed on the rising costs of living and how to help Australians manage. Before the Budget there was speculation that we would see changes for aged care funding and fees, but what made it into the Budget?


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27 May

If Aged Care Advice is Confusing...Get Advice

RADs, DAPs, MPIRs, MTAs and ACATs !! These are just a few of the acronyms you will face when navigating aged care decisions. It might even feel like you’ve landed in a foreign country where you don’t understand the language or the rules.


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27 May

Episode 10: SMSF - Is It The Right Investment Strategy For You?

Explore the world of self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) with expert Shannon Smit as she shares insights on wealth-building, retirement planning, and investment strategies using super as a vehicle.


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24 May

How to quickly improve your credit score

Your credit score is a track record of how you manage debts.


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22 May

What happens to your property after a breakup?

Before getting into the specifics of property division, it's important to understand the concept of legal ownership.


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21 May

Close The Dream Gap

Close The Dream Gap. Starting at age 5, many girls begin to develop limiting self-beliefs. They stop believing their gender can do or be anything. This is the Dream Gap.


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20 May

4 benefits of asset leasing for businesses

Asset leasing provides businesses with several advantages, an attractive option for acquiring essential equipment and machinery.


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16 May

Warehouse Construction To Rebound

New warehouses on the back of rising interest rates, new construction is expected to rebound as tenant pre-commitments firm up and demand rises.


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15 May

Service stations are not done yet

Despite electric vehicles growing in popularity there is still a need for traditional service stations, according to an expert.


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15 May

Can I sell a tenanted property?

It’s important to initiate transparent communication with tenants well in advance of listing the property for sale.


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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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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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13 May

Episode 9: Mentoring Leaders So They Can Lead

Join Shannon Smit as she interviews Sharyn McClafferty, CEO of Slipstream Group, in a podcast episode discussing leadership, team growth, and the value of continuous learning and development for business success.


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10 May

Commercial Property Rebound ‘Better Than Expected’ For Investors

With rising interest rates hurting sentiment across the commercial property sector, 2024 is now shaping up to be “better than expected.


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8 May

Mastering Your Retirement: Is an SMSF the Ultimate Investment Strategy for You?

A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) is a type of superannuation fund that gives members greater control over their retirement savings.


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3 May

Fashion For A Cause: The Original Pre-Loved Fashion Market

LIVE EVENT
3rd May 2024


Welcome to Mornington Peninsula's original pop-up pre-loved market with a difference. Fashion For A Cause is a not-for-profit fundraiser event. Grab a fashion bargain or unique piece, wine with friends, bid on silent auction items, all to raise funds for Clothes 4U.Inc. All proceeds from the event including stall sales, ticket sales and clothing purchases on the night will be double-dollar-matched and donated to Clothes 4U Inc.


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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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29 Apr

Episode 8: Rebuilding After Divorce

In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, host Shannon Smit, Founding Director of Smart Business Solutions Group, shares valuable insights on navigating financial challenges post-divorce.


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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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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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15 Apr

Episode 7: Scaling Up - Strategies for Business Growth

In this episode we explore the key areas in your business that you can influence to promote growth, adapt the seven ways to grow for your unique business, and understand how these strategies impact your profit and cash flow.


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5 Apr

4 Things You Need To Know About Equipment Finance

Equipment finance means there is a viable solution for businesses grappling with cash flow management amid equipment upgrades.


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4 Apr

SMART Market Wrap - February 2024

Investors maintained a healthy appetite for risk in February, encouraged by a generally favourable set of financial results from listed companies in the US and Europe.Headline inflation remained at an annual rate of 3.4% in January, still above the central bank’s target range.


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3 Apr

BTR to outperform buy-and-hold this decade

The build-to-rent sector (BTR) is set to outperform traditional buy-and-hold commercial investments.


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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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2 Apr

Demand for tourism assets rising as entertainers return to Australia

Tourism assets are seeing demand return as a host of high-profile artists and entertainers make their way back to Australia.


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2 Apr

Retail Asset Transactions Gain Market Share

For the first time in nearly two decades, retail assets have seen the largest portion of all commercial transactions.


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2 Apr

SMART Life - Issue 16 - Autumn 2024

Things to consider before investing in multigenerational living. What do rising geopolitical tensions mean for investment markets? This and more in Issue 16 of SMART Life.


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2 Apr

What do rising geopolitical tensions mean for investment markets?

As conflicts between nations flare into open armed warfare and elections around the world become more contentious, there’s plenty to spike investor concern. We look at how wars and political tensions influence investment markets over the long term and examine the im- plications for your retirement savings.


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2 Apr

Three things you should consider before investing in multi-generational living

As cost-of-living pressures bite and family members look for ways to support each other, multi-generational living is being discussed as a solution. Pointing out the potential, property researcher CoreLogic identified more than 655,000 residential properties as being suitable for a granny flat in Australia’s three biggest cities.


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2 Apr

Episode 6: The Wealth Building Blueprint / Mastering Money & Goals

In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, Shannon's expert advice will help you make informed financial decisions and stay connected to your goals, ensuring a financial future you are committed to work towards.


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28 Mar

What’s the downside to cheap dealer motorbike finance?

Low-interest rate loans used by dealerships are a good way to get buyers in the door – but if you’re not careful, you may end up overpaying in the long term.


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28 Mar

Understanding the impact interest rates on car loans

Car loans can feature either fixed or variable interest rates, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.


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28 Mar

Creative ways to own an investment property

With the surge in property prices, the barrier to entry has never been higher. However, there are many different ways to get into the market.


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27 Mar

The House Vs. Unit Divide Continues To Grow

The difference between the price of units and houses continues to grow, with homes now costing $300,000 more.


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27 Mar

House prices reach the $1 million mark

The national median house price officially reached $1,005,242 marking the highest price on record.


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Related News

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.


READ MORE READ MORE
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:


READ MORE READ MORE
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.


READ MORE READ MORE