BUSINESS EDGE ADVISORS – TERMS, CONDITIONS & POLICIES

Effective Date: 01/07/2025
ABN: 89 508 243 958
Tax Agent Number: 20651000
Last Updated: 02/07/2025

1. PRIVACY POLICY & DATA PROTECTION
2. OUTSOURCING DISCLOSURE & SERVICE PROVIDERS
3. QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
4. PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS & ETHICS
5. COMPLAINTS & DISPUTE RESOLUTION
6. DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT & RETENTION
7. TECHNOLOGY, SOFTWARE & SECURITY
8. REGULATORY COMPLIANCE
9. SERVICE DELIVERY STANDARDS
10. CLIENT RIGHTS & OBLIGATIONS
11. FEE POLICIES & PAYMENT TERMS
12. WEBSITE TERMS OF USE
CONTACT US

1. PRIVACY POLICY & DATA PROTECTION

1.1 Privacy Statement

Business Edge Advisors is committed to protecting your privacy in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs). This policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information.

1.2 Information Collection

Types of Information We Collect:

Identity Information: Full name, date of birth, Tax File Number, ABN
Contact Details: Address, phone numbers, email addresses
Financial Information: Income details, bank accounts, assets, liabilities
Business Records: Trading history, GST records, employee information
Family Information: Spouse and dependent details (where relevant)
Government Identifiers: Medicare numbers, Centrelink CRN (if applicable)
Professional Information: Occupation, employer details, professional memberships

How We Collect Information:

Directly from you via forms, portals, and meetings
From the ATO through authorised access
From financial institutions (with your consent)
From employers or business partners (as authorised)
Through our secure client portal
Via third-party software integrations

1.3 Use of Information

Primary Purposes:

Providing accounting, taxation, and business advisory services
Preparing and lodging tax returns and statements
Communicating with government agencies on your behalf
Managing our client relationship
Meeting legal and professional obligations

Secondary Purposes:

Improving our services and systems
Internal training (de-identified)
Marketing our services (with consent)
Statistical analysis and reporting

1.4 Information Disclosure

We may disclose your information to:

Government Agencies:

Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC)
Department of Human Services
State Revenue Offices
Other agencies as required by law

Professional Service Providers:

Our professional indemnity insurers
Legal advisors (when necessary)
Other professionals you’ve authorised
Auditors of Self-Managed Super Funds

Technology & Service Partners:

Cloud storage providers
Software companies (for technical support)
Outsourced service providers (see Section 2)
IT support and security services

Compliance & Quality:

Tax Practitioners Board (for investigations)
Institute of Public Accountants (quality reviews)
Professional standards reviewers

1.5 Overseas Disclosure

Your information may be accessed from or stored in:

United States: Cloud storage (Microsoft, Intuit, Box, Dropbox)
Singapore: Regional data centers
Vietnam: Odyssey Resources Ltd (data processing)
New Zealand: Xero Limited servers
Other locations: As disclosed and agreed

Safeguards: We ensure overseas recipients are bound by privacy obligations substantially similar to the APPs through contracts and oversight.

1.6 Data Security

Technical Measures:

256-bit SSL encryption for data transmission
Multi-factor authentication on critical systems
Regular security updates and patches
Firewall and intrusion detection systems
Secure cloud infrastructure
Regular security audits

Administrative Measures:

Staff confidentiality agreements
Privacy training programs
Access controls based on roles
Clean desk policy
Secure document disposal
Incident response procedures

1.7 Data Breach Response

Our Eligible Data Breach (EDB) Protocol:

Discovery & Containment (0-12 hours)
- Immediate containment actions
- Preserve evidence
- Initial assessment
Assessment (12-48 hours)
- Determine what information is affected
- Identify affected individuals
- Assess likely harm
Notification (Within 72 hours if EDB)
- Notify affected individuals
- Report to Office of the Australian Information Commissioner
- Provide support and guidance
Remediation
- Implement preventive measures
- Review and update procedures
- Follow-up with affected parties

1.8 Your Privacy Rights

You have the right to:

Access your personal information (some exemptions apply)
Correct inaccurate information
Request information about our disclosures
Opt-out of direct marketing
Lodge a privacy complaint
Request anonymity (where practicable)

How to Exercise Your Rights:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 02 6041 1687
Mail: Privacy Officer, Business Edge Advisors, {{ADDRESS}}

1.9 Retention Periods

Tax records: 7 years minimum
Client files: 7 years after last service
SMSF records: 10 years
Permanent records: Indefinitely (wills, deeds)
Marketing lists: Until opt-out

1.10 Privacy Complaints

Internal Process:

Contact our Privacy Officer
Written response within 14 days
Internal review if needed
Resolution meeting offered

External Options:

Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC)
- Phone: 1300 363 992
- Website: www.oaic.gov.au

2. OUTSOURCING DISCLOSURE & SERVICE PROVIDERS

2.1 Our Approach to Outsourcing

Business Edge Advisors partners with carefully selected service providers to deliver efficient, high-quality services. All outsourced work is performed under strict quality controls and confidentiality agreements.

2.2 Why We Outsource

Efficiency: Faster turnaround times during peak periods
Expertise: Access to specialized skills
Technology: Leverage advanced systems
Cost-effectiveness: Keep fees competitive
Scalability: Handle varying workloads

2.3 Quality Assurance Framework

Every outsourced task undergoes:

Initial briefing with clear requirements
Progress monitoring checkpoints
Quality review by provider
Verification by our senior staff
Final approval before client delivery
Feedback and continuous improvement

2.4 Current Service Providers

Domestic Providers

AussieWeb Pty Ltd

Location: Albion, Queensland, Australia
Services:
- Accounting file preparation
- Data entry and processing
- Bank reconciliation support
- GST coding assistance
Security: ISO 27001 certified
Established: 2015

VeraFire Solutions

Location: Albury, New South Wales, Australia
Services:
- System integrations
- Process automation
- Technical consulting
- Report development
Security: Australian hosted
Established: 2018

Lifeplan Strategic Solutions

Location: Wodonga, Victoria, Australia
Services:
- Financial planning support
- Insurance placement
- Loan origination services
- Investment research
Licenses: AFSL holder
Established: 2010

LightningIP

Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Services:
- IT infrastructure
- Cybersecurity services
- Backup management
- Help desk support
Certifications: Multiple security certifications
Established: 2012

International Providers

Odyssey Resources Ltd

Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Services:
- Complex data processing
- Financial statement preparation
- Bookkeeping support
- Document digitization
Quality: CPA-supervised teams
Time in Partnership: 5+ years
Security: Dedicated secure connection

2.5 Cloud Service Providers

Core Accounting Platforms:

QuickBooks Online (Intuit Inc.)
- Servers: USA, Australia
- Compliance: SOC 2 Type II
Xero Limited
- Servers: USA, Australia
- Compliance: ISO 27001

Practice Management:

Karbon – USA
XPM (Xero Practice Manager) – USA/Australia

Superannuation:

BGL Corporate Solutions (360) – Australia
Class Limited – Australia

Document Management:

Seamlss – Australia
Box.com – USA
Dropbox Business – USA
Microsoft OneDrive – USA/Australia

Other Systems:

DocuSign – USA (electronic signatures)
Office 365 – USA/Australia
NowInfinity – Australia (corporate compliance)
MyProsperity – Australia (client portals)
Midwinter – Australia (financial planning)

2.6 Subcontractor Standards

All providers must:

Sign comprehensive confidentiality agreements
Maintain professional indemnity insurance
Comply with privacy laws
Undergo annual security reviews
Provide service level guarantees
Allow audit rights

2.7 Your Protections

Right to object: Notify us if you prefer work not be outsourced
Transparency: We’ll inform you which provider assists with your work
Recourse: Direct escalation path for concerns
No direct charges: Outsourcing costs are included in our fees

3. QUALITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

3.1 Overview

Our Quality Management System (QMS) ensures consistent, high-quality service delivery in compliance with:

APES 320 Quality Management for Firms
Tax Agent Services Regulations
Section 40 of the Tax Agent Services (Code of Professional Conduct) Determination 2024
ISO 9001 principles

3.2 Leadership & Governance

Quality Leadership Structure:

Managing Principal: Overall quality responsibility
Quality Manager: System implementation
Team Leaders: Day-to-day quality assurance
All Staff: Quality commitment

Quality Committee: Meets quarterly to review:

Client feedback
Error reports
Process improvements
Training needs
Compliance with new TPB requirements

3.3 Risk Management

Risk Assessment Matrix:

Client acceptance risks
Engagement risks
Independence threats
Resource constraints
Technology risks
Regulatory changes
False/misleading statement risks

Mitigation Strategies:

Standardized procedures
Regular training
Independent reviews
Technology safeguards
Professional development
Escalation protocols

3.4 Engagement Quality

Pre-Engagement:

Client acceptance procedures
Conflict checks
Capacity assessment
Fee agreements
Identity verification

During Engagement:

Standardized workflows
Progress monitoring
Technical consultations
Documentation standards
Accuracy verification

Completion:

Review procedures
Sign-off protocols
Client communications
File closure
Record retention

3.5 Review Processes

Three Lines of Defense:

Self-Review
- Preparer checks
- Standardized checklists
- Software validations
- Reasonable care verification
Peer Review
- Independent staff review
- Technical accuracy
- Compliance verification
- False statement checks
Partner Review
- High-risk engagements
- Complex matters
- Final approval
- Quality sign-off

3.6 False & Misleading Statement Procedures

Effective 1 July 2025:

Detection Process:

Review procedures include false statement checks
Staff trained to identify potential issues
Escalation protocols documented
“Reasonable care” assessments

Action Protocol:

Immediate documentation
Client notification within 24 hours
Correction deadline provided
Follow-up procedures
Withdrawal if non-compliance
Authority notification if required

Documentation Requirements:

Statement identification date
Nature of false/misleading element
Client communications
Correction attempts
Final outcomes

3.7 Performance Monitoring

Key Performance Indicators:

Error rates < 2%
Client satisfaction > 90%
Deadline achievement > 95%
Review completion 100%
Training hours per staff > 40
False statement incidents: Target zero

Monitoring Methods:

Monthly dashboards
Client surveys
File inspections
External reviews
Mystery shopping
Compliance audits

3.7 Continuous Improvement

Improvement Sources:

Client feedback
Staff suggestions
Error analysis
Industry benchmarking
Technology advances

Implementation Process:

Identify opportunity
Analyze impact
Design solution
Test and refine
Full implementation
Monitor results

4. PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS & ETHICS

4.1 Ethical Framework

We adhere to:

APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants
TPB Code of Professional Conduct (including 2024 Determination)
IPA By-Laws and Regulations

4.2 Fundamental Principles

Integrity: Straightforward and honest in all professional relationships

Objectivity: No bias, conflict of interest, or undue influence

Professional Competence: Maintain knowledge and skill at required levels

Confidentiality: Respect confidential information

Professional Behavior: Comply with laws and avoid discrediting the profession

4.3 Record Keeping Standards (Section 30)

Required Records Include:

Client Communications: All emails, letters, meeting notes
Advice Provided: Date, nature, basis for recommendations
Work Performed: Calculations, research, analysis
Source Documents: Information relied upon
Review Evidence: Quality checks, sign-offs
Time Records: When services provided

Record Standards:

Must correctly record the tax agent service
Sufficient detail for another practitioner to understand
Clear identification of preparer and reviewer
Date and time stamps
Version control for changes

4.4 Client Information Obligations (Section 45)

We Must Inform All Clients About:

1. TPB Register Access:

How to verify our registration
What information is publicly available
How to search for other practitioners

2. Complaint Rights:

Internal complaint process
TPB complaint procedures
How to lodge a complaint
Expected timeframes

3. Professional Standards:

Our obligations as tax agents
Quality standards we maintain
Insurance coverage
Ethical requirements

4. Client Obligations:

Record keeping requirements
Accuracy of information
Timely provision of data
Payment obligations

5. Required Disclosures:

Any past disciplinary actions (last 5 years)
Current conditions on registration
Relevant convictions or sanctions
Material changes to our practice

4.5 Independence

Threats Monitored:

Self-interest
Self-review
Advocacy
Familiarity
Intimidation

Safeguards Applied:

Annual declarations
Rotation policies
Review procedures
Consultation requirements
Documentation standards

4.6 Conflicts of Interest

Identification Process:

New client checks
Annual reviews
Transaction monitoring
Staff declarations

Management Procedures:

Disclosure protocols
Chinese walls
Consent processes
Declining engagements
Ongoing monitoring

4.7 Professional Competence

Maintaining Standards:

Minimum 40 hours CPD annually
Technical updates weekly
Practice reviews
Peer consultations
Industry memberships

Areas of Focus:

Tax law changes
Technology advances
Industry developments
Ethical updates
Soft skills

4.8 Breach Reporting

From July 1, 2024 – Mandatory reporting of:

Significant breaches by other practitioners
Material false statements
Serious misconduct
Client harm situations

Internal Process:

Document concerns
Seek legal advice if needed
Report within 30 days
Maintain confidentiality
Cooperate with investigations

4.9 Supervision Standards (Section 35)

We Ensure:

All staff properly supervised
Work reviewed before finalization
Outsourced work quality checked
Competency standards maintained
Training provided as needed

5. COMPLAINTS & DISPUTE RESOLUTION

5.1 Our Commitment

We are committed to resolving any concerns promptly, fairly, and professionally. All complaints are:

Taken seriously
Handled confidentially
Resolved promptly
Used for improvement

5.2 Internal Complaints Process

Stage 1: Initial Contact (1-2 days)

Raise concern with your accountant
Verbal discussion encouraged
Immediate resolution attempted
Escalation if needed

Stage 2: Formal Complaint (5-7 days)

Written complaint to Practice Principal
Acknowledgment within 24 hours
Investigation commenced
Written response provided

Stage 3: Internal Review (10-14 days)

Independent partner review
Fresh perspective
Final internal decision
External options explained

5.3 External Complaint Options

Tax Practitioners Board

For: Tax agent service complaints
Website: www.tpb.gov.au/make-complaint
Phone: 1300 362 829
Process: Online form, investigation, determination

Institute of Public Accountants

For: Professional conduct matters
Website: www.publicaccountants.org.au
Email: [email protected]
Process: Ethics committee review

Australian Financial Complaints Authority

For: Financial service disputes
Website: www.afca.org.au
Phone: 1800 931 678
Limits: Compensation up to $542,500

Fair Trading / Consumer Affairs

For: General business disputes
State-based: Contact your state authority
Process: Mediation, tribunal

5.4 Common Complaint Types

Service Quality:

Delays in completion
Error corrections
Communication gaps
Unmet expectations

Fee Disputes:

Unexpected charges
Scope disagreements
Value concerns
Payment arrangements

Professional Conduct:

Confidentiality concerns
Conflict situations
Competence questions
Ethical matters

5.5 Complaint Statistics

Annual Reporting:

Total complaints received
Resolution timeframes
Outcome categories
Improvement actions

Target Metrics:

Resolution within 14 days: 90%
Client satisfaction post-resolution: 85%
Repeat complaints: <5%

6. DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT & RETENTION

6.1 Document Categories

Permanent Records:

Company constitutions
Trust deeds
Superannuation deeds
Wills (copies)
Major contracts

Long-term (10+ years):

SMSF documents
Audit files
Major transactions
Court documents

Standard (7 years):

Tax returns
Financial statements
Working papers
Correspondence
Invoices

Short-term (2 years):

Routine emails
Draft documents
Internal memos
Marketing materials

6.2 Storage Methods

Electronic Storage:

Primary method for all new documents
Cloud-based with local backup
Encrypted and access-controlled
Version control enabled
Regular integrity checks

Physical Storage:

Secure facility
Climate controlled
Fire protection
Limited access
Destruction certificates

6.3 Client Access

Portal Access:

24/7 availability
Current year plus 2 prior
Download capabilities
Secure sharing
Activity logging

Archive Requests:

2-5 business days
Reasonable fees may apply
Electronic delivery preferred
Verification required

6.4 Destruction Procedures

Electronic:

Secure deletion protocols
Multiple overwrites
Audit trail maintained
Certificate issued

Physical:

Professional service
Witnessed destruction
Certificate provided
Compliance verified

6.5 Business Continuity

Backup Systems:

Real-time replication
Geographic redundancy
Daily backups
Monthly archives
Annual recovery tests

Disaster Recovery:

4-hour recovery target
Alternative site ready
Communication plan
Client notification
Priority restoration

7. TECHNOLOGY, SOFTWARE & SECURITY

7.1 Core Technology Stack

Client-Facing Systems:

Seamlss: Onboarding, signatures, documents
Client Portals: Secure document exchange
Video Conferencing: Zoom, Teams
Communication: Email, SMS, app notifications

Internal Systems:

Practice Management: Karbon, XPM
Document Management: Integrated DMS
Tax Preparation: Multiple platforms
Time & Billing: Integrated systems

7.2 Artificial Intelligence & Automation

Current AI Applications:

Document classification
Data extraction (OCR)
Categorization assistance
Anomaly detection
Workflow automation

AI Governance:

Human review required
No decision-making delegation
Accuracy verification
Bias monitoring
Regular audits

Client Benefits:

Faster processing
Improved accuracy
Cost efficiency
Better insights
Predictive analysis

7.3 Cybersecurity Framework

Technical Controls:

Next-gen firewalls
Endpoint detection & response
Email security gateways
Web filtering
Network segmentation
Vulnerability scanning

Access Management:

Multi-factor authentication
Role-based access
Privileged access management
Regular access reviews
Automated de-provisioning

Monitoring & Response:

24/7 security monitoring
Incident response team
Forensic capabilities
Threat intelligence
Regular penetration testing

7.4 Software Integrations

Accounting Software:

QuickBooks Online
Xero
MYOB (legacy support)
Industry-specific packages

Banking Integrations:

Bank feeds
Payment processing
Reconciliation automation
Statement imports

Government Systems:

ATO portal integration
Single Touch Payroll
ASIC connectivity
State revenue systems

7.5 Innovation Pipeline

Current Pilots:

Advanced analytics
Predictive modeling
Voice assistants
Blockchain applications
Enhanced visualizations

Future Roadmap:

Real-time reporting
Automated insights
Proactive alerts
Natural language queries
Augmented reality

8. REGULATORY COMPLIANCE

8.1 Tax Agent Services Act (TASA)

Our Obligations:

Registered with TPB (#{{AGENT_NUMBER}})
Code of Conduct compliance
Annual declarations
CPE requirements
Insurance maintenance

2024-2025 Code Changes:

Section 10 – Upholding Ethical Standards

Promote tax profession integrity
Not undermine the tax system
Support collective professional efforts

Section 15 – False & Misleading Statements (1 July 2025)

Monitor for false statements
Require client corrections
Withdraw if non-compliance
Report substantial harm risks
Document all instances

Section 30 – Client Records

Keep comprehensive records
Correctly record all services
Minimum detail standards
7-year retention

Section 35 – Supervision

Ensure competent service delivery
Supervise all outsourced work
Maintain quality standards

Section 40 – Quality Management

Documented QMS required
Regular reviews
Continuous improvement
Compliance monitoring

Section 45 – Client Information

TPB register access details
Complaint procedures
Professional obligations
Client obligations
Event disclosures

8.2 Anti-Money Laundering (AML/CTF)

Client Identification:

100-point ID check
Source of funds verification
Beneficial ownership
Ongoing monitoring
Suspicious matter reporting

High-Risk Indicators:

Large cash transactions
Complex structures
Offshore elements
Unusual patterns
PEP involvement

Our Procedures:

Risk-based approach
Enhanced due diligence
Transaction monitoring
Staff training
AUSTRAC reporting

8.3 Privacy Legislation

Compliance Framework:

Privacy Policy (published)
Collection notices
Consent protocols
Breach procedures
Cross-border transfers

Rights Management:

Access procedures
Correction processes
Opt-out mechanisms
Complaint handling
Audit trails

8.4 Professional Standards

Scheme Participation:

Professional Standards Act
Limited liability scheme
Insurance requirements
Risk management
Claims procedures

Regulatory Bodies:

Tax Practitioners Board
ASIC (if applicable)
IPA monitoring
State regulations
Industry codes

8.5 Workplace Compliance

Our Compliance:

Fair Work Act
Work Health & Safety
Anti-discrimination
Modern slavery
Environmental standards

8.6 Breach Reporting Obligations

From 1 July 2024:

Report significant breaches by other practitioners
30-day reporting timeframe
Documentation requirements
Confidentiality maintained
TPB cooperation

9. SERVICE DELIVERY STANDARDS

9.1 Service Level Commitments

Response Times:

Phone calls: Same day
Emails: 1-2 business days
Urgent matters: 2-4 hours
Portal queries: Next business day
General post: 3-5 days
False statement issues: Within 24 hours

Completion Standards:

Tax returns: 21 days from complete info
BAS: 7 days from complete info
Financial statements: 30 days
Advice requests: 7-14 days
Simple queries: 48 hours
Error corrections: Immediate priority

9.2 Communication Standards

Proactive Communication:

Annual planning meetings
Quarterly check-ins
Tax planning alerts
Deadline reminders
Legislative updates
TPB requirements updates

Required Communications (Section 45):

How to access TPB register
Your complaint rights
Our professional obligations
Your obligations to us
Any disciplinary history
Practice changes

Communication Channels:

Primary: Email/portal
Urgent: Phone/SMS
Meetings: In-person/video
Documents: Secure portal only
Marketing: Opt-in only
Compliance matters: Written confirmation

9.3 Service Accessibility

Office Hours:

Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
After hours: By appointment
Peak periods: Extended hours
Emergencies: Contact protocol

Remote Services:

Video consultations
Screen sharing
Digital signatures
Cloud collaboration
Mobile apps

9.4 Client Experience

Onboarding Process:

Identity verification
Engagement letter signing
Portal access setup
Expectations setting
First meeting scheduled

Service Delivery:

Clear timelines
Regular updates
Quality checks
Progress reporting
Issue escalation

Quality Assurance:

All work reviewed
Technical accuracy verified
Compliance checked
Client approval obtained
Feedback welcomed

9.5 Information Provision Standards

We Will Always Provide:

Clear, accurate advice
Timely updates
Plain English explanations
Supporting documentation
Fee transparency
Compliance confirmations

Documentation Standards:

Written advice for significant matters
Email confirmations of decisions
Portal uploads of all documents
Version control maintained
Audit trail preserved

9.6 Error Management

If Errors Occur:

Immediate notification
Impact assessment
Correction strategy
ATO disclosure (if required)
Process improvement
No charge for our errors

Your Protection:

Professional indemnity insurance
Internal review process
External complaint options
Fair resolution commitment
Continuous improvement

10. CLIENT RIGHTS & OBLIGATIONS

10.1 Your Rights

Service Rights:

Professional competent service
Timely completion
Clear communication
Transparent pricing
Confidentiality
Access to quality management procedures

Information Rights:

Access your data
Correct errors
Understand processes
Question advice
Second opinions
Know how to verify our registration

Complaint Rights:

Internal review process
External escalation to TPB
Fair resolution
No retaliation
Compensation (if applicable)
Clear complaint procedures

Verification Rights:

Check our TPB registration at www.tpb.gov.au
Confirm our qualifications
View our public profile
Verify our insurance
See any conditions on registration

10.2 Your Obligations

Information Provision:

Complete disclosure of ALL income and deductions
Timely delivery (30 days before deadlines)
Accurate data – take “reasonable care”
Source documents for all claims
Update changes immediately

“Reasonable Care” Standard (Critical):

Actively check information accuracy
Ask questions when uncertain
Don’t make claims you can’t substantiate
Review all documents before signing
Report errors immediately
Keep proper records

Legal Compliance:

Maintain records (5 years minimum)
Meet all lodgment deadlines
Pay taxes when due
Follow professional advice
Report compliance issues

Engagement Obligations:

Review all documents carefully
Ask questions before signing
Pay fees as agreed
Protect access credentials
Respect confidentiality
Respond to requests promptly

False Statement Obligations (From 1 July 2025):

Never knowingly provide false information
Correct any errors immediately when discovered
Cooperate with correction procedures
Accept consequences of non-compliance
Understand we must withdraw if you refuse corrections

10.3 Mutual Obligations

Professional Relationship:

Open, honest communication
Mutual respect
Timely responses
Issue resolution
Continuous improvement

Information Exchange:

Accurate information both ways
Timely provision
Clarification when needed
Documentation of decisions
Confirmation of understanding

10.4 Consequences of Non-Compliance

Your Risks Include:

Penalties and interest from ATO
Loss of safe harbour protection
Audit selection
Prosecution for serious offenses
Termination of our services
Reporting to authorities (if required)

Our Obligations if You Don’t Comply:

Cannot lodge false returns
Must advise correction of errors
May need to cease acting
Could be required to notify ATO/TPB
Must document all issues

10.5 Protection Through Compliance

By Meeting Your Obligations You:

Qualify for safe harbour provisions
Minimize penalty risks
Ensure accurate tax position
Maintain good standing
Protect our professional relationship
Avoid investigation risks

11. FEE POLICIES & PAYMENT TERMS

11.1 Fee Philosophy

Value-Based Pricing:

Fixed prices where possible
Transparency upfront
Value not time
Efficiency rewards
Scope clarity

11.2 Fee Structure

Fixed Price Services:

Annual tax returns
Regular BAS
Standard bookkeeping
Payroll processing
Basic advice

Hourly Rate Services:

Complex projects
Litigation support
Specialized consulting
Undefined scope
Emergency work

11.3 Payment Options

Methods Available:

Bank transfer (preferred)
Credit card (+1.5% surcharge)
Direct debit
Payment plans
Fee funding

Payment Terms:

Standard: 14 days
Plans: Monthly
Retainers: Advance
Projects: Staged
Overdue: Interest applies

11.4 Fee Disputes

Resolution Process:

Discuss with accountant
Review with manager
Principal determination
External mediation
Legal remedies

Remedies Available:

Fee adjustment
Payment plans
Service credits
Scope clarification
Relationship review

12. WEBSITE TERMS OF USE

12.1 Acceptable Use

Permitted Activities:

Accessing public information
Using client portals
Downloading resources
Contacting us
Sharing appropriate content

Prohibited Activities:

Unauthorized access
Malicious activities
Copyright infringement
False information
Commercial exploitation

12.2 Intellectual Property

Our Content:

Copyright protected
Personal use allowed
Attribution required
No modification
No commercial use

Your Content:

You retain ownership
License to us for services
Responsibility for accuracy
No infringement
Appropriate use

12.3 Disclaimers

General Information:

Not specific advice
Current at publication
Subject to change
Professional advice needed
No reliance without consultation

Third-Party Content:

Not endorsed
Verify independently
No liability
Links may change
Use at own risk

12.4 Liability Limitations

Exclusions:

Indirect losses
Lost profits
Data loss
Third-party claims
Force majeure

Caps:

Professional standards scheme
Insurance limits
Service fees paid
Statutory limits
Agreed amounts

12.5 Updates

We may update these terms at any time. Updates will be posted with the effective date. Continued use constitutes acceptance of updated terms.

CONTACT US

Business Edge Advisors

Office Address:
549 Hume Street
Albury NSW 2640

Contact Details:
📞 Phone: 02 6041 1687
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.edgea.com.au

Office Hours:
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed weekends and public holidays

Key Contacts:

Privacy Officer: [email protected]
General Enquiries: [email protected]
Complaints: [email protected]
Technical Support: [email protected]

Emergency Contact:
For urgent matters outside business hours, please call 02 6041 1687 and follow the prompts.

This document was last updated on 02/07/2025 and is reviewed quarterly. For the most current version, please visit www.edgea.com.au/terms