News & Resources

This month we look at the ATO’s sharpened compliance focus across property, business incentives and emerging technologies. New draft guidance on holiday homes signals a much tougher approach to deductions for short-term rentals, particularly where lifestyle use blurs with genuine income-earning intent. The Federal Government’s review of the Electric Car Discount also places current EV tax benefits under the spotlight, prompting businesses and employees to revisit timing and eligibility. We then turn to the rise of AI-generated tax “advice” — and the costly traps emerging as the ATO cracks down on misinformation. Finally, we unpack the nuances of downsizer contributions and the main residence exemption, highlighting key conditions and misconceptions that frequently trip up retirees.

From payroll reform to professional development, this issue explores several important topics for businesses and investors. We unpack the new Payday Super laws that will soon change how employers handle super contributions and clarify when further study — like an MBA — can genuinely pay off at tax time. We also look at the Federal Government’s proposed “cash acceptance” rules that could see some retailers required to accept notes and coins again, and what that means for everyday operations. Finally, for SMSF trustees, new draft guidance from the ATO highlights why education is more than just good practice — it’s essential to avoid compliance risks and penalties. It’s a practical, forward-looking edition designed to help you stay compliant, confident, and ready for the changes ahead.

This month brings a mix of tax reform, real-world lessons, and practical planning insights. We unpack the Government’s latest announcements on the proposed overhaul of the super tax rules that will reshape strategies for those with balances above $3 million. A recent tribunal decision also serves as a reminder that it is difficult to access tax relief for medical expenses, even when tied to income from a disability pension. For small businesses, proposed legislation extends the $20,000 instant asset write-off and introduces new transparency measures for companies and charities. And finally, we look at the rising threat of cybercrime — and what every business can do to strengthen its defences.

The past few months have brought some important developments that could have real consequences for business owners, trustees, and investors. From a recent Tribunal case that highlights why timing and evidence are crucial when it comes to trust distributions (and more broadly), to the practical impact of new rules which make ATO interest charges non-deductible, there’s a lot to unpack.
 
We also explore the Federal Government’s review of supermarket unit pricing — a move that could reshape the way suppliers and retailers approach packaging, pricing, and compliance. And finally, we cover the ATO’s latest warnings on accessing your super early, a reminder that shortcuts today can create long-term financial pain tomorrow.

There’s been a bit to report on since our August publication. Standouts include the RBA’s interest rate cuts, the release of the Productivity Commission’s interim report on the strategy for creating a more dynamic and resilient economy and in a win for over 3 million Australians with student debt - they’ll see some of it wiped away with the Government’s fiscal wand.