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Simplify Your Transition:
Making an effortless switch to Smart Business Solutions.


Embarking on a financial journey with SMART Business Solutions is not just about numbers; it's about empowering our clients with the tools and knowledge they need for financial success.


Our New Client Resource Centre is your comprehensive guide to navigate your transition to SMART Business Solutions seamlessly. As you explore our New Client Resource Centre, envision a future where accounting and financial management is not a challenge but an opportunity for growth. SMART Business Solutions is here to guide you every step of the way. Welcome to a smarter, more empowered financial experience.

What to expect when partnering with Smart Business Solutions.

When considering partnering with Smart Business Solutions as your accountant and tax advisory partner, you can expect a thorough and proactive approach to managing your finances.

We start with a request for essential information before our first Proactive Accounting Meeting, ensuring that our discussions are purposeful and focused. During the Proactive Accounting Meeting, we delve into your current financial position, income streams, and goals for your business. We also explore how these business goals align with your personal and lifestyle aspirations. This meeting is an opportunity to discuss any challenges you're facing, such as growth or cash flow issues, and to identify opportunities for business development. Our timeline of the way we work helps manage client expectations for timeframes and workflow, ensuring that our partnership is transparent and efficient. At Smart Business Solutions, we're committed to providing proactive and tailored support to help you achieve your business and financial goals.

Explainer and Training videos by category.


The latest.

29 May '19

It's time to spread your wings and take your business global

Does the idea of taking your best-selling Aussie product or service global appeal? Introducing your offering to international markets can be rewarding, provided you venture forth fully prepared.


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21 May '19

How A Coalition Election Win Affects You

With the federal election done and dusted we've done a wrap up of how the Coalition win will affect you, either as a business or as an individual.
Check it out.


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18 May '19

End of Financial Year Tips

Well the end of financial year is nearly here so what can you do prior to June 30 to keep more money in your pocket and not the tax man? Many proposals from budget night will also impact your future tax position. So take a read through and see which measures can potentially benefit your business


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17 May '19

Lunch and Learn May 17

Session # 4 Business Value - Build a business with the end in mind

When establishing a business, most of us will think about how to 'get there.' However, the widely forgotten yet hugely important contrasting component to a solid business plan is also to know how you may one day exit the business. An effective exit or succession plan encourages the growth and sustainability of your business.

Our Lunch Learn Program combines two of life's essentials; food and knowledge. And what better way to combine the two than with a 2 course catered lunch alongside like-minded business owners who are keen to learn & network. A more casual alternative to formal training and seminars, the best lunch and learns become an integral part of company culture - and a tasty perk that everyone looks forward to.


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16 May '19

Tax – What the 2019 Federal Election means for you

With only a few days til' the Federal Election on 18 May, there is a lot of wild speculation and 'fake news' in the media.

We're not trying to recommend who you should vote for. That's a deeply personal decision. Rather, we'd like to help explain how the outcome of the Federal Election will impact you.


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15 May '19

Whats the difference between an accountant bookkeeper and tax agent

It sounds like the beginning of a bar room joke, but in all seriousness and despite their stereotyped images, there are fundamental differences between the three positions.


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7 May '19

ATO don't say we didn't warn you

WARNING TIME

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is closing in fast on everyone who doesn't properly declare their income and pay the correct amount of tax.

 As your Tax Accountants, we want to help you be aware of what the ATO is doing and how you can protect yourself.


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28 Apr '19

THINKING OF SELLING YOUR BUSINESS?

Do not sell without first gaining professional advice

For the majority of small to medium sized business owners, the value of your business is your biggest asset, and very likely, your retirement fund.

Upon sale of your business it is critical you receive the maximum available net proceeds. However, many taxpayers miss this once in a lifetime chance through poor transactions planning and the holding of assets in inappropriate structures. Just because you consider yourself a small business does not mean you have automatic access to all available CGT concessions.

 

While the rules are complex, if the correct planning is in place, a husband and wife team can receive up to $4 million tax free after the sale of their business. (If you’ve run your business for at least 15 years, all the sale proceeds might be tax free!)


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24 Apr '19

Best way to finance your business assets

Are you thinking of acquiring, upgrading or replacing capital assets that will be used in running your business?


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16 Apr '19

What every employer needs to know about fringe benefits

The Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) year ended. With the ever increase budget deficits, the ATO will be reviewing whether all employers who should be paying FBT are, and that they are paying the right amount.

To help you meet your fringe benefits obligations, we’ve put together a list of essentials every employer needs to know about FBT and review every year, such as:  

  • Should I be registered for FBT?
  • What information do I need to give my accountant?
  • What is exempt from FBT?
  • How can I reduce my FBT liability?
  • Are the benefits I pay my employees minor and infrequent?
  • Do I need to review our salary sacrifice agreements?


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12 Apr '19

Buying a home on behalf of a family member

How to help a family member who can’t get finance get onto the property ladder without incurring capital gains tax.


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5 Apr '19

Lunch and Learn April 5

SESSION 3: FINANCIAL AWARENESS

The better you understand your business, the easier it will be to make more money.

Management decisions rely on a sound understanding of the financial implications for a business. We have developed this workshop to enable business owners to fully understand and interpret their numbers, so they have a strong foundation on which to grow their business.

We recommend this workshop to you if you are passionate about your business and want to better understand your numbers, so you can answer questions like:
1. How much profit have I made this year?
2. Why has my profit increased but I have no cash?
3. Is my cash level increasing or decreasing?
4. What is affecting my cash level?

 


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26 Mar '19

Do you have a car owned by the Business

With the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) year end of 31 March 2019 upon us, it is time to assess the annual FBT obligations of your business.
 


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20 Mar '19

Should I transfer my business premises to my SMSF?

One of the advantages of self-managed super funds (SMSFs) is the ability to acquire a business real property (BRP), such as a commercial property, a shop or even a farm through your SMSF.


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15 Mar '19

SAVE THE DATE - Fashion For A Cause Fundraiser

It's on again! SMART Business Solutions together with Clothes4U Boutique once again bring you the fabulously fun and feel-good event, Fashion For A Cause.

Last year, this brilliant clothes-swap concept raised in excess $6,500 for the most vulnerable people in our Mornington Peninsula community.


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15 Mar '19

Exit Strategy: Why a Succession Plan Is Important for your Business and your Family

You started your business with the intention of making it a success yet your long-term vision most likely does not take into account what will happen to your business when you retire or in the event you should not be able to continue working.


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8 Mar '19

Lunch & Learn 8 March

SESSION 2: Successful Selling
You're already good at what you do. However, most business owners have never received any formal sales training. In a world of rapid change, tighter margins, and greater competition due to digital marketing, it’s essential that business owners dedicate time and energy to obtaining their share of the market.

This Lunch & Learn session provides valuable sales learnings and advice to help you streamline your sales process, boost the performance of your sales team and significantly improve your results.


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5 Mar '19

Don't just talk about it, do it! Business Execution The Key to Getting Ahead

Being successful in business demands you have certain essential components in place. Such as a durable business model. A solid plan of action. Sound financial management and bookkeeping.


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15 Feb '19

Tax Lodgement Due date is fast approaching!

The tax lodgement due date is fast approaching..... make sure you get organised to avoid any unnecessary penalties or interest changes.


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8 Feb '19

Do you run a business in the building and construction industry?

The ATO has just announced that it will begin contacting businesses in the building and construction industry who have not lodged their Taxable Payments Annual Report for the 2018 and prior financial years. What is it? Do you need to report? What information should you report? What if you haven't lodged your report? We answer these questions and more.


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8 Feb '19

Lunch & Learn 8th Feb - 7 Ways to Grow your Business

Our Lunch Learn Program combines two of life's essentials; food and knowledge. And what better way to combine the two than with a 2 course catered lunch alongside like-minded business owners who are keen to learn & network.

A more casual alternative to formal training and seminars, the best lunch and learns become an integral part of company culture - and a tasty perk that everyone looks forward to.


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6 Feb '19

You get what you pay for

With free advice, you often get what you pay for.  It’s been a long time since I’ve been surprised by clients or colleagues telling me about the latest tip that’s shared around the barbeque.  What strikes me is the blind faith put in these comments.


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25 Jan '19

How to call in your Debts

One of the most effective ways to deal with a cash flow crisis is to call in your debts. Only downside is this typically involves picking up the phone and speaking with your debtors in person.


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18 Jan '19

Is your Business Sailing Along Without A Map, Drifting?

For many, the word ‘budget’ is about as appealing as the word ‘diet’. It seems to imply what you will go without, rather than what you will achieve.

To a successful business owner, however, the word ‘budget’ has a very different meaning.


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9 Jan '19

Is Your Company Structured to Save Taxes

As an accountant, we wear many hats when dealing with clients. Sometimes we’re accountants, sometimes advisors, sometimes a confidante, and sometimes we’re just another parent of a kid on your child’s soccer team.


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7 Dec '18

Lunch & Learn - 7 December - Systems & Processes

Our Lunch Learn Program combines two of life's essentials; food and knowledge. And what better way to combine the two than with a 2 course catered lunch alongside like-minded business owners who are keen to learn & network.
 


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2 Nov '18

Lunch & Learn - 2 November - Cash is KING

Our Lunch Learn Program combines two of life's essentials; food and knowledge. And what better way to combine the two than with a 2 course catered lunch alongside like-minded business owners who are keen to learn & network.

 


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12 Oct '18

Lunch & Learn - 12 October - Prepare a Marketing Plan

Our Lunch Learn Program combines two of life's essentials; food and knowledge. And what better way to combine the two than with a 2 course catered lunch alongside like-minded business owners who are keen to learn & network.

Whether it's generating more leads, or selling more to your existing customers, taking the time to set your marketing goals and determine the actions required to achieve them is the first step.
 


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9 Oct '18

Is Your Business Adequately Covered? What else could go wrong and should you be considering

A new financial year is a bit like “new year’s eve”, a time to make those New Year’s resolutions. Insurance is not typically first and foremost in your mind when you’re dealing with the day-to-day running of your business.


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1 Sep '18

Why my kids own a Piece of Xero

Here it is, my blog on why I purchased $5,000 on Xero shares for each of my two children. For over 6 months I have been contemplating whether this experience would be beneficial to anyone if I shared it. I kept thinking, “Who would want to read it?” and “What would I say?” and “Would anyone care?” Well, here I sit on my way back from seeing the Grand Canyon whilst holidaying in the USA with the family. I have time, so I pulled out my iPad and started to write. So, here it is. The story of why I purchased those Xero shares.


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31 Aug '18

Lunch & Learn - 31 August - The 10 Hats in Every Business Seminar

Our Lunch & Learn Program combines two of life's essentials; food and knowledge.  And what better way to combine the two than with a 2 course catered lunch alongside like-minded business owners who are keen to learn & network.


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3 Aug '18

Lunch & Learn Program - 3 August - Business Planning

Our Lunch & Learn Program combines two of life's essentials; food and knowledge.  And what better way to combine the two than with a 2 course catered lunch alongside like-minded business owners who are keen to learn & network.


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27 Jul '18

** FUNDRAISER ** Fashion for a Cause

Update your wardrobe with items that spark JOY and join us for a fun evening of fashion as we tackle the War on Waste whilst assisting women in need on the Mornington Peninsula.
 

SMART Business Solutions together with Clothes 4U Boutique, a not-for-profit organisation providing quality clothing, accessories and toiletries to women in need on the Mornington Peninsula, bring you the brilliant concept of swapping your quality pre-loved clothing with other participants.


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25 Jul '18

Should I set-up a self-managed super fund? And how?

There has been a lot in the news lately regarding self-managed super funds (SMSF’s) from the Royal Commission into financial planning, and the banks tightening up on lending to SMSF’s some may wonder if it is all still worth it or a viable option. Yes absolutely! However, some of these changes are there to protect members of super funds because a SMSF may not be the most appropriate for everyone.


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17 Jul '18

How to Plan for A Healthy Cash Flow

I always say, “cash is king” you can have a great idea, make lots of sales but if no-one is paying how can continue to pay your bills?


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29 May '18

BITE Conference 2018

With the success of 2017, BITE Conference is back for 2018 - The Mornington Peninsulas leading conference for small business. With a focus on 4 key ingredients integral to success in modern business: Business Innovation Technology Efficiency, BITE Conference is the number 1 thing you can do for your business this year


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9 May '18

Are travel deductions for rental properties still available in 2018

In short, the answer to the above question is yes if actively letting residential rental properties is your business and that you have pursued the said business post 1 July 2017. In addition, Companies, superannuation funds (not SMSFs, however), public unit trusts, and managed investment trusts are still allowed to claim travel deductions for any costs related to the upkeep and management of their residential rental properties.


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17 Apr '18

7 Ways to Grow your Business Evening Session

Join us at our 7 Ways to Grow Your Business event. We’ll cover the key areas in your business that you can influence and the strategies you can adopt to achieve growth and improvement.


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17 Apr '18

7 Ways to Grow your Business Afternoon Session

Join us at our 7 Ways to Grow Your Business event. We'll cover the key areas in your business that you can influence and the strategies you can adopt to achieve growth and improvement


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20 Mar '18

Succession Planning for Business

Having an effective Succession Plan encourages the growth and sustainability of your business….
Succession Planning allows you to transition your business to new ownership in a managed and systematic way; reducing stress while achieving a greater outcome. If you would like to learn more about how you can successfully transition your business, or be the recipient of the transition, join us at our Succession Planning seminar.


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6 Mar '18

Business Awards - Creating Submissions that put you on the map - AFTERNOON SESSION

Learn How To Construct Compelling Award Entries - Afternoon Session
We know that award nominations can be daunting, attend this free seminar to learn how to do it and construct a compelling award entry that can put you on the map. With nominations for the Peninsula Business Awards quickly drawing to a close, it has got us thinking about why businesses should enter awards. It takes time, energy and a good dollop of realism to piece together your story authentically, but the benefits are unchallenged, from third-party endorsement to increase your credibility to opening new networks and celebrating your team. Read more about the endless benefits of entering awards here. 
 
There's a couple of weeks left to enter the Peninsula Business Awards, but there are plenty of valuable and powerful small business awards to enter throughout the year. Join us next week as we ease you through the submission process and prep you for award success. The seminar is free to attend, but you must book now to secure your seat at the event! 


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6 Mar '18

Business Awards - Creating Submissions that put you on the map - EVENING SESSION

Learn How To Construct Compelling Award Entries  - Evening Session
We know that award nominations can be daunting, attend this free seminar to learn how to do it and construct a compelling award entry that can put you on the map. With nominations for the Peninsula Business Awards quickly drawing to a close, it has got us thinking about why businesses should enter awards. It takes time, energy and a good dollop of realism to piece together your story authentically, but the benefits are unchallenged, from third-party endorsement to increase your credibility to opening new networks and celebrating your team.  Read more about the endless benefits of entering awards here. 
 
There's a couple of weeks left to enter the  Peninsula Business Awards, but there are plenty of valuable and powerful small business awards to enter throughout the year. Join us next week as we ease you through the submission process and prep you for award success. The seminar is free to attend, but you must book now to secure your seat at the event! 


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1 Feb '18

Flourish 12 Month Business Coaching

The Flourish Business Coaching Program is designed specifically for small to medium business owners committed to growing their business. The program provides you with essential ingredients to improve your financial literacy,helping
you make informed strategic decisions to help accelerate your business growth.


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19 Jan '18

Take a note - here are the key dates you need to be aware of

here are the key dates you need to be aware of


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8 Dec '17

Personal Finance Planning with Xero

Personal Finance Planning with the help of Xero and Smart Business Solutions If you were to add up all your earnings for a lifetime, the total would come to hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars. 


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21 Nov '17

Tracking your Profit

As a business owner facing down the end of another financial year, you’re likely paying more attention to those all-important profit and loss margins.


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15 Nov '17

Personal Budgeting

Personal Budgeting: The Key To Realising Your Financial Goals And DreamsIf you discovered a business owner was operating without a set budget, you’d probably think he/she was incompetent or not taking his/her financial obligations seriously. 


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14 Nov '17

Got an Online MyGov Account?

Got An Online MyGov Account? Be Sure To Read This The Online MyGov has caused major hassles for tax agents so we felt it was important to let you know. Over the past year, the ATO has made several changes to the way in which it communicates with tax payers and their delegated tax agents.


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1 Nov '17

Xero For Start-Ups Workshop

Just started a business? Or want to change your sole trader business to Xero? 

We can help! Our workshop will provide you with the training and information you need to get your new business (or existing sole trader) onto Xero accounting software to provide you with real-time financial information so you can confidently make business decisions. When:
1st Nov (Morning Session @ 9:00am-12:30pm)



Cost: $50pp
 


24 Oct '17

Doing Business In The Cloud

As Xero’s Victorian Accounting Firm partner of the Year the team at SMART Business Solutions LOVE Xero and everything CLOUD.


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17 Oct '17

Guidelines for guarding your new business name

Picking the right name for your business or company is an important aspect of beginning a new venture or revamping your current one.


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Events.

B.I.T.E Business Conference