Budget 2025-26: Missing the Measure for Small Businesses

Chalkboard titled ‘Budget Plan’ with bar graphs, symbolizing financial strategies for the Federal Budget 2025-26

The Federal Budget 2025-26 has arrived with a range of promises—tax cuts, energy bill relief, and measures aimed at boosting the economy. But not everything made it across the line. A key small-business measure, the $20,000 instant asset write-off, remains stalled in Parliament, leaving many entrepreneurs unsure about their next move. In this post, we’ll … Read more

FBT 2025: What You Need to Know

Electric cars lined up in a charging station, representing the FBT 2025 exemption for electric vehicles

The Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) year ends on 31 March 2025, and there are key updates for employers and employees. Here’s what you need to know. FBT Exemption for Electric Cars If your business provides an electric vehicle (EV) to an employee, you may qualify for an FBT exemption if: The car is a zero … Read more

Bendel case: unpaid present entitlements are not Division 7A loans

A judge's gavel on a desk with legal documents, symbolizing the Bendel case decision on Division 7A and tax law.

The Full Federal Court has ruled in Commissioner of Taxation v Bendel [2025] FCAFC 15, confirming that unpaid present entitlements (UPEs) owed to corporate beneficiaries are not loans for Division 7A purposes. This decision has significant implications for trust structures and tax planning, potentially overturning the ATO’s long-standing position. What Was the Issue? Since December … 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

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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

FBT on work vehicles: what you owe and what you can avoid

black audi a 4 on road during daytime

Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) is a tax employers pay on certain benefits they provide to their employees (or their employees’ associates) in addition to salary or wages. One of the most common types of fringe benefits provided by employers is the use of vehicles. This guide aims to provide small business owners with a comprehensive … Read more