Tax

Business Tips, Ideas & Support Articles

Trust Distribition Resolution Australia
Advisory

Trust Distribution Resolutions: Why They Matter (and What Happens If You Miss the 30 June Deadline)

As we approach the end of the financial year in Australia, one task stands out for anyone using a trust structure: signing your Trust Distribution Resolution. This document determines how income is allocated from the trust – and if it’s not signed by 30 June, the ATO can tax the entire profit at the top marginal rate (up to 47%).   That’s a steep penalty for missing paperwork. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and protect your tax position. What Is a Trust Distribution Resolution in Australia?   A trust distribution resolution is a legal document that outlines

Accountant help you plan for the future
Accounting

Why Your Business Structure Still Matters (Even if You Set It Up Years Ago)

When you first started your business, you probably picked a structure based on what was quickest, cheapest, or what your accountant suggested at the time. But here’s the thing…What made sense then might not be serving you now. As your business grows, your structure can either save you thousands or hold you back. And yet, many business owners never review it again – until there’s a problem. So, let’s break it down… What is a Business Structure (and Why Should You Care)? Your business structure is basically how your business is legally and financially set up. Common structures in Australia include:

Business

What the 2025–26 Federal Budget Means for You

The 2025–26 Federal Budget has landed, and while the headlines focus on cost-of-living relief, there’s plenty in it for business owners to pay attention to. From tax incentives and compliance crackdowns to employment law changes, this year’s budget includes updates that will affect your cash flow, your systems, and even your employment contracts. Here’s a breakdown of the most relevant updates – and what they mean for you. 1. Tax Cuts = More Disposable Income   From 1 July 2026, the personal tax rate for incomes between $18,201–$45,000 will reduce from 16% to 15%, and drop again to 14% in July

Accounting

EOFY is Coming – 9 Quick Actions to Get Ready

The end of the financial year (EOFY) can feel overwhelming, but getting prepared now will save you stress (and money) later. Here are nine simple things you can do right now to get ahead before June 30. 1. Pay Super Early to Claim the Deduction Superannuation is only tax-deductible when it’s paid on time. If you want to claim a deduction this financial year, make sure your June quarter super is paid before June 30—otherwise, it won’t count until next year. 2 Chase Up Outstanding Invoices Got unpaid invoices? Now’s the time to follow up on overdue accounts so you’re not

Tax

What is Entertainment? Is it Costing Me More Money Than I Know About? FBT

Ever found yourself scratching your head at the end of a financial year, wondering how those business lunches and office shindigs have bumped up your tax bill? Well, you’re not alone. Fringe Benefits Tax, or FBT, often catches Aussie business owners by surprise, especially when it comes to entertainment expenses. You need to know what counts as entertainment and how it can impact your tax obligations. In this blog post, let’s dig into FBT and learn how you can effectively manage these expenses to keep surprises at bay. So, What’s “Entertainment” in Business?   By the book, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

Tax

Tax Tips: Renting out your home

Have you ever thought about renting out your house as a short-term rental on a platform such as Airbnb or Stayz or through an agent? Whether it’s a new job interstate or overseas, a long holiday, financial troubles or a family member in need of a carer, there are plenty of reasons why a homeowner might leave their home (known here as the ‘principal place of residence’ or PPR) to move elsewhere for a period of time. Sounds simple right? But; you could end up being liable for more than you bargined for without the right planning. There is never a

Tax

Technology Boost 20% Bonus Tax Deduction

Under the technology boost, small businesses may be able to access a bonus 20% tax deduction on eligible technology expenses and depreciating assets which are used to digitise their operations. Dates: for expeneses incurred between 7:30 pm AEDT 29 March 2022 to 30 June 2023 (note there from 29 March 2022 – 30 June 2022 would normally fall into the 2022 tax return however the bonus for that income year should be claimed in 2023 tax return) Limits: Bonus deduction is limited to $20,000 per year (ie on expenses up to $100,000 pa). That is; 7:30 pm AEDT 29 March 2022 to 30 June 2022 –

Accounting

Protecting a Legacy: The Challenges of Passing on the Family Business

When it comes to mixing family and business, there are two schools of thought. Firstly, it’s a bad idea as it will affect your ability to make rational decisions and force you to not always put ‘what’s best for the business’ first. Secondly, with it becoming increasingly difficult to find staff, employing family members is a great idea as they will be loyal and also personally invested in the success of the business. Obviously, there are a range of variables that will affect your perspective on this (such as whether your family members have a strong work ethic) but family businesses,

Tax

EOFY is almost here: Brace Yourself for an ATO Clampdown

The end of financial year is almost here and there is little time left to get your affairs in order. This year, there are some tax changes likely to affect you whether you’re a business owner, a salaried employee, an investor, or a retiree. Here are a few key points to consider but remember that everyone’s situation is unique so always contact us directly for specific advice. Table of Contents For Individuals More scrutiny from the ATO The recent Federal Budget was a sign that fiscal restraint was not exactly on this government’s agenda and it is evident that a shift

Accounting

Electric Vehicles and Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) Exemptions

Electric Vehicle FBT Exemption: What’s Behind the Fashionable Concession? Your Questions Answered   What type of Electric Vehicle is exempt? First, the Electric Vehicle  must be a “car” as the FBT law defines it. A “car” is: A vehicle designed to carry less than 1 tonne, and A vehicle designed to carry less than 8 passengers Electric utes over 1 tonne are not “cars” and are therefore not exempt under these rules – there are special FBT rules for utes and don’t assume they are always exempt from FBT. Motorcycles, scooters and similar vehicles are not “cars.” Second, the car must