Budget 2026: What Actually Changes for Small Business Owners

Small business owner's desk on Budget 2026 morning with calculator, coffee, smartphone showing chart, and printed budget headline.

Published 13 May 2026  |  10 min read Treasurer Jim Chalmers handed down his fifth Budget last night, calling it “the most important and ambitious Budget in decades.” Every accounting firm in the country has published a wrap by now. Most are written for corporate CFOs. This one is for the small business owner running … Read more

How to finalise STP at end of financial year

STP Year end finalisation

Picture this: It’s mid-July, and Sarah from the local café calls you in a panic. “My accountant says I should have finalised something called STP weeks ago, and now my staff can’t lodge their tax returns!” Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Every year, hundreds of Albury Wodonga business owners find themselves scrambling through Single Touch … Read more

Family business tax planning with property and trusts

A lightbulb sits atop a chalked thought bubble on a small blackboard

Running a family business or building wealth through investments comes with its own tax challenges and opportunities. The ATO is watching these areas more closely than ever, but there are still plenty of legitimate ways to structure your affairs to minimise tax – you just need to know the rules and play by them. What’s … Read more

Trust Compliance & Distributions

Clayton Wood of Business Edge Advisors in a desk meeting with a client

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is actively targeting trusts and how trusts distribute income to beneficiaries. A number of clients have requested a review of their structures to ensure that they are in the best possible position in the future. We want to help you achieve the best result. ATO’s Top 5 Trust Checklist for … Read more

The Cost of Doing Nothing: ATO’s Move to Monthly GST Reporting

A financial report with graphs and charts labeled 'Monthly Report,' representing business tax reporting and compliance

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is making changes that will impact small businesses that have a history of non-compliance with their GST reporting. From 1 April 2025, the ATO will transition certain small business taxpayers from quarterly to monthly GST reporting. This shift will apply to businesses with a track record of late payments, missed … Read more

Wage Theft Laws Are Changing: What Australian Business Owners Need to Know for 2025

A payroll document on a desk with office supplies and a coffee mug.

As of 1 January 2025, Australian businesses will face significant changes to wage theft legislation. Employers who deliberately underpay workers or fail to meet their obligations under Fair Work laws could face severe penalties, including fines up to $7.8 million and jail time of up to 10 years. These reforms mark a major shift in … Read more

What Makes or Breaks Christmas for Micro and Small Business Owners?

Flat lay of a tablet, smartphone, coffee cup, pens and gift boxes decorated with blue ribbons and snowflakes

The festive season brings both opportunities and challenges for small business owners. While the cost of living has slightly eased, many households are still feeling the pinch. For businesses, the key to navigating this period is careful planning and strategic decision-making. Here’s how you can manage the volatility and make the most of the Christmas … Read more

It Wasn’t Me: Protecting Your Business from Tax Fraud Scams

A person using a laptop displaying a skull and crossbones icon with warning symbols and an open padlock

Picture this: You log into your myGov account, only to discover that your activity statements for the past year have been altered, and GST credits of $100,000 have been issued. But you didn’t receive any such refund. What happened? Unfortunately, this scenario is becoming more common. Scammers are targeting myGov accounts, changing bank details, and … Read more

What the ATO is watching in 2024

A woman in glasses uses a calculator and works on paperwork at a desk with a large monitor displaying an invoice

As tax season approaches, it’s essential for businesses and individuals to be aware of the Australian Taxation Office’s (ATO) key focus areas. Understanding these hot spots can help you stay compliant and avoid potential audits. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed insights into the ATO’s primary areas of scrutiny for 2024 and how … Read more

The Right Vehicle for Your Business: Tax Implications and Benefits

Close-up of the front headlights and hoods of two modern cars, one grey and one purple, parked side by side

When trading in an old car to purchase a new one, it’s crucial to understand the tax implications. Here’s a comprehensive guide for small business owners considering non-fuel efficient, fuel-efficient, and electric vehicles, including options like utes with specific towing capacities. Tax Implications Overview Below is a table summarizing the key differences in tax implications … Read more