As the year winds down, many businesses are preparing to celebrate with end-of-year parties, staff gifts, and client events. While these celebrations are a great way to recognise your team’s hard work, it’s important to understand the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) implications that can arise. Getting it wrong can lead to unexpected tax bills –…
As the year draws to a close, many business owners find themselves juggling festive preparations, staff holidays, and the final rush of customer orders. Amid the chaos, it’s easy to forget that the end of the calendar year is also an important time to get your business organised – both financially and operationally – before…
As the festive season approaches, it’s natural to feel the pinch—extra gifts, extra meals, travel, and year-end celebrations all add up. For members and trustees of a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF), the message from the ATO is clear: don’t treat your super as a holiday fund. Why This Warning Matters. There are very limited circumstances…
No one enjoys the idea of an Australian Taxation Office (ATO) audit, but it’s a reality that both individuals and businesses should be prepared for. The good news is that most audits are triggered for specific reasons — and staying honest and transparent with your accountant can make all the difference if the ATO ever…
The Fair Work Commission’s recent ruling against Westpac has sent ripples through workplaces across Australia — and for good reason. In a climate where hybrid work remains a hot topic, this decision reinforces that flexibility is no longer just a “perk” but, in certain situations, a legal right that must be handled carefully and fairly.…
Australia’s superannuation system is set for one of its biggest shake-ups in decades. The government’s “Payday Super” draft proposal aims to make super payments faster, fairer, and more transparent – but it also means significant changes for how employers handle payroll and compliance. Under the current rules, employers pay superannuation guarantee (SG) contributions quarterly. The…
If you haven’t yet lodged your tax return, you’re not alone. With the 31 October deadline fast approaching, now’s the time to get everything in order so you can lodge on time and avoid penalties. A little organisation in these final days can save you stress and ensure you don’t miss out on legitimate claims.…
Seasonal events like Black Friday, Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day are more than just dates on a calendar—they’re opportunities to engage with customers, increase brand visibility, and drive sales. But with so many businesses competing for attention during these busy times, success requires more than generic discounts or themed window displays. A thoughtful, tailored marketing…
When a relationship ends—whether it’s a marriage or a de facto partnership—there’s a lot to work through emotionally, practically, and financially. Among the assets that need to be considered is superannuation. While it’s often thought of as a “retirement-only” fund, super is treated as property under family law and can be divided when couples separate.…
If you run your business from home, you’re not alone—and you may be entitled to valuable tax deductions. The ATO allows deductions for the portion of your home expenses that relate directly to your business. Let’s break down the essentials so that you know what you might be able to claim on your tax return.…