Instant asset write-off December extension
Extending the instant asset write-off The Government has announced that it will extend the $150,000 instant asset write-off for six months to 31 December 2020. Australian businesses with annual turnover of less than $500 million will be able to take advantage of this extended timeframe to invest in assets to support their business as the […]
2019/20 Tax Return Checklists
Tax saving strategies prior to 1 July 2020 For Individuals A good strategy to reduce tax payable is normally to accelerate any income tax deductions into the current income year, which will reduce overall taxable income in the current year. Despite this, for the 2020 tax season, tax planning may require consideration of an individual’s […]
Farewell FY19; welcome FY20
From the desk of Justin Flavel Another end of financial year is upon us and it’s not uncommon to reflect, especially on how quickly and dynamically decisions are now made. Timely example It has been an amazing start to winter here and I went for a long walk with my wife. Whilst we were out […]
Permanent place of abode test
Taxpayer living in serviced apartments overseas not a resident The Full Federal Court has found that a taxpayer had a “permanent place of abode” in Bahrain, even though he lived in temporary accommodation, and therefore allowed his appeal against a decision that he was a resident of Australia. This decision confirms that the correct focus […]
ATO data matching of share transactions
Share transactions – 20 Sep 1985 to 30 Jun 2018 data matching program protocol (amended) At a glance Program objectives The purpose of the ATO’s data matching program is to ensure that taxpayers are correctly meeting their taxation obligations in relation to share transactions. These obligations include registration, lodgment, reporting and payment responsibilities. As taxpayers can hold shares for […]
Omnis retirement planning case study
Structuring retirement planning reaps results for former ‘do it yourselfer’ Retiree Ross led a varied and interesting career – from jumping out of army helicopters, to being a ski instructor and owning his own business – he’s never done things by halves. So when it came to selling his mum’s home and finalising her estate, […]
Illegal phoenix activity
Legislation to combat illegal phoenix activity The Government has announced a package of reforms to tackle illegal phoenix behaviour. By way of background, phoenixing occurs when the controllers of a company strip the company’s assets and transfer them to another company, to avoid paying the original company’s debts. The proposed measures will deter and disrupt […]
Tax myths busted!
Tax season is underway To help Australians get their returns right, the ATO has identified the top 10 tax myths and misunderstandings it says are causing incorrect claims. Assistant Commissioner Kath Anderson says unreliable tax advice is leaving taxpayers exposed. Top of the list is the myth that everyone is entitled to claim a “standard deduction” […]
Small business tax tips
Tax time tips for small business The ATO claims that it is committed to supporting small businesses and making it as easy as possible for them to understand and meet their tax obligations at tax time. Consequently, Assistant Commissioner Mathew Umina has some tips to help small business in the lead up to and during […]
Super opportunity for first home buyers and downsizers
You may be able to use your super to help make the most of your money Whether you’re buying your first home or you’re ready to downsize, these two new schemes support the Government’s goal of reducing pressure on housing affordability in Australia. First home buyers The ‘First home buyer super saver scheme’ allows you […]
