The ATO has released its final position on how it will apply some integrity rules dealing with trust distributions - changing the goal
posts for trusts distributing to adult children, corporate beneficiaries, and entities with losses.
As a result, many family groups will pay higher taxes because of the ATO’s more aggressive approach.
We do the hard work, so you don't have to.
This past financial year brought a wave of opportunity—and many super funds delivered, with double-digit growth across key asset classes. The big question: is your fund among the top performers?
More and more Australians managing their own super through SMSFs are outperforming the country’s largest funds—and they’re doing it with calm confidence, not complexity.
Investing in property isn’t just about mortgage repayments. There are significant upfront and ongoing costs to consider.
Low-doc loans are a practical solution when tax returns or full financial statements aren’t available.
Geopolitical tensions remained in focus in June as renewed conflict in the Middle East disrupted oil supply routes and raised concerns about broader regional instability. Oil prices spiked as tensions rose and supply concerns mounted, though moderated after a ceasefire was called 12 days later. Brent closed June +5.8% higher at $67.61.
Discover how the ATO’s data-matching program works and how staying informed can help you prepare your taxes with clarity and confidence.
Late super payments can cost your business thousands in tax, penalties, and even personal liability. Here’s how to avoid the spiral and protect your future.
The Australian business landscape is expanding, signalling a potentially strong future for commercial property markets.
Australia's commercial property market is showing signs of recovery after a challenging period, with tentative growth expected throughout 2025 and stronger performance anticipated in 2026.
According to the CBRE Lender Sentiment Survey, 56 percent of lenders expressed intentions to grow their commercial real estate exposures.
Property prices have surged in several markets since the Reserve Bank of Australia's first interest rate cut in February.
| Over the past year, the accounting profession has been going through some significant changes, and many small business owners are only just starting to feel the impact. Updates to the Tax Agent Services Act (TASA) have lifted the standard around how tax and accounting services are delivered, with a stronger focus on transparency, professionalism, and client protection. |
SMART Business Solutions has been named winner of the Innovator of the Year at the Australian Accounting Awards 2025. Recognised for our forward-thinking approach, we continue to lead the way in combining AI-driven efficiencies with a human-centered client experience - empowering our team to do meaningful work that drives real impact.
A personal loan can help improve your credit score if managed properly. Regular, on-time repayments show lenders you can handle debt responsibly.
Investors now represent a substantial portion of new lending, approaching record highs in some smaller states and reaching levels nationally
Familiarise yourself with auction rules and terminology. Understand how vendor bids work, and clarify all sale terms before auction day.
The end of the financial year (EOFY) is often one of the best times to snap up a bargain in the automotive market.
The Australian office market is showing encouraging signs of recovery in 2025.
A cash flow forecast for the year ahead will help you anticipate slow periods, identify upcoming expenses, and plan for investment opportunities.
While the month began with constructive discussions and agreements between the US and some of its trading partners, uncertainty returned to the market after President Trump threatened to impose new tariffs on Europe and multiple large corporates such as Apple, Samsung and Mattel, and again near month-end as the Court of International Trade deemed the global tariffs to be “contrary to law.”
Planning ahead can prevent surprise tax bills and smooth out your cash flow.
Australia has established itself as the world's second most attractive data centre investment market, with only the United States receiving more capital inflow in this rapidly expanding sector.
The Northern Territory's commercial property market is experiencing significant growth, with Darwin emerging as a new hub for investors across multiple sectors.
The surge in confidence comes amid February's interest rate cut and expectations of further reductions throughout 2025, creating a more optimistic outlook across most sectors and states.
It’s a powerful question, and one we help clients explore every day. it’s about understanding your whole financial picture and the lifestyle you want to create.
Making strategic investments in new assets before EOFY can position your business for growth in the year ahead.
The investment market volatility that kicked off in March 2025 has felt like a punch, particularly for those in or nearing retirement.
Global markets whipsawed following the “Liberation Day” tariff announcements on April 2, and subsequent developments throughout the month. Volatility was rife and trading volumes were robust.
To be eligible to make a downsizer contribution to your super, you must be aged 55 or older and have owned your home for at least 10 years prior to the sale.
The investment market volatility that kicked off in March 2025 has felt like a punch, particularly for those in or nearing retirement.
Struggling with loan repayments? Discover the truth about financial hardship arrangements, how they impact your credit, and the proactive steps you can take to regain control.
Start the new financial year with confidence. Discover practical strategies to refocus your goals, improve cashflow, strengthen client relationships, and build a smarter, more resilient business.
Avoid common EOFY mistakes with our expert guide for small business owners. Discover proactive strategies to boost financial health and plan confidently for the year ahead.
Passing on wealth is about more than writing a will—it’s about creating clarity, avoiding conflict, and empowering the next generation. With Australia’s largest intergenerational wealth transfer already underway, it’s never been more important to approach succession with care, strategy, and forward thinking.
When someone passes away with superannuation savings, the taxable component of their balance can trigger a 17% tax hit if left to a non-dependant. It’s a heavy financial burden, particularly for adult children. But recent private binding rulings from the Commissioner of Taxation offer a smarter way forward.
A business line of credit can help cover operational expenses like wages, rent, and stock.
A business loan can provide the working capital needed to cover short-term expenses like wages, rent, supplier invoices, or utility bills, without disrupting day-to-day operations.
Large format retail (LFR) continues to stand out as an investment class across Australia's commercial market, with strong yields compared to other assets
Businesses across Australia are shifting from rapid warehouse expansion to strategic consolidation as they face rising real estate costs and normalising e-commerce demand in 2025.
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly—it’s for anyone who wants peace of mind that their hard-earned assets will be passed on the way they intend. Yet, it remains one of the most overlooked areas of financial management.
The commercial property market is showing signs of recovery after a challenging two-and-a-half-year period of declining valuations.
ALL DAY CONFERENCE @ Mornington Racecourse
6 May 2025 - 8:30am - 5:30pm
In today’s fast-changing world, staying competitive means embracing new trends and technologies. At B.I.T.E.
Conference 2025, you'll discover groundbreaking strategies and tools—like A.I. and robotic process automation—designed to
help you navigate and succeed in the evolving business landscape.
Whether you're planning a lap of Australia or a weekend escape, owning a caravan or camper can be a great investment in lifestyle.
One of the biggest benefits of debt consolidation is the potential to reduce how much interest you’re paying.
At the end of each financial year, your accountant prepares essential documents like financial statements, tax returns, and compliance reports. But what brings it all together? That’s where the Management Letter comes in.
Lenders assess defaults on a case-by-case basis. What’s most important is the context surrounding the default and how your financial situation has changed since.
Some lenders will assess your income using Australian tax rates, even if you're living in a country with lower tax obligations.
Under the expanded program, income thresholds will increase from $90,000 to $100,000 for singles and from $120,000 to $160,000 for couples or single parents.
Federal elections have little effect on Australia's property market, despite common perceptions, according to new research.
Now's the time to review what strategies you can use to minimise your tax before 30 June.
The Federal Budget, delivered on the night of May 12 2026, was one of the most significant in years. We know you will have questions — and we have put together this document to answer the ones we are hearing most.
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