ATO
EEA Advisory articles tagged ATO.
Cents Per Kilometre vs Logbook for Car Deductions in 2026
For the 2025–26 income year, Australians can choose between two methods to claim car deductions on their 2026 tax return. The cents per kilometre method uses a fixed rate of 88 cents for each work-related kilometre with a 5000 kilometre cap, while the logbook method lets you claim a percentage of actual running costs without any kilometre limit. This guide explains both methods in detail, outlining the record keeping requirements and ATO rules. Decide which approach best suits your needs and potentially boost your refund.
Are Dual Cab Utes FBT Exempt in 2026
This blog post explores the Fringe Benefits Tax implications for dual cab utes in the 2026 FBT year. It explains that a dual cab ute only qualifies for an FBT exemption if it meets the ATO eligibility criteria and if private travel remains minor and infrequent. If a vehicle is used for regular family trips or shopping, it becomes subject to FBT just like a passenger car. The article debunks common myths and outlines the dual hurdles of engineering and behavioural requirements that employers must meet. It offers practical insights for managing FBT risks effectively.
Aussies Pull $13 Billion From Big Super Funds: What It Means for Your Retirement Path
Australians moved about $13 billion from the nation’s biggest super funds into self-managed super funds over the past year, driven by a hunger for control, faster decision making and tailored portfolios. SMSF assets have now topped $1 trillion, almost a quarter of all super savings, while industry giants scramble to keep members engaged. This article explains the drivers behind the switch, compares performance data and outlines practical checks to help readers decide whether staying with a large fund or going DIY best suits their retirement goals.
ATO debt and payment plans: negotiating with the ATO when cash flow is tight
Dealing with tax debts can leave business owners feeling overwhelmed when cash flow is tight. This guide explains how ATO payment plans let you pay off tax debts in manageable instalments. It outlines what the ATO expects and the documents needed to secure a practical repayment plan. Learn effective strategies to negotiate terms that fit your business needs while avoiding further penalties.
Single Touch Payroll Phase 2: the reporting fields most employers still get wrong
Many Australian employers continue to face avoidable errors in STP Phase 2 payroll reporting. This article identifies the seven most problematic reporting fields and explains why details like income streams and tax status matter. It provides practical steps for refining payroll data and avoiding penalty notices. With clear guidance and actionable tips, payroll officers can keep their systems up to date while ensuring compliance and employee satisfaction.
PAYG withholding variation: when it pays off for AU contractors and investors
A PAYG withholding variation allows taxpayers to adjust tax withholding to better match their year-end liability. This guide explains the process for contractors and property investors, detailing when to apply a variation and when to leave things as they are. It explores how upward and downward adjustments can improve cash flow throughout the year. The guide also highlights the ATO oversight and the benefits of tailoring withholding to expected tax outcomes.
Director loans and Division 7A in 2026: avoiding deemed-dividend traps
Directors in private companies know the nerve-wracking moment when personal use of company funds raises red flags. Division 7A can reclassify these loans as unfranked dividends that incur heavy tax at the top marginal rate. In 2026, increased ATO scrutiny and higher interest rates heighten the risk of costly penalties. Directors can protect profits by ensuring full repayments or establishing a complying written loan agreement. Read on to discover practical guidance and insights.
Australia Fuel Excise Cut Impacts Fuel Tax Credits
In 2026 Australia temporarily reduced fuel excise rates by half for three months, impacting the Fuel Tax Credit program. The cut lowers charges on unleaded petrol and diesel as well as the eligible credit, which may raise net fuel costs for many enterprises. Businesses with accurate fuel records benefit by receiving the correct refund, while others risk under- or over-claiming. The article explains the law behind the temporary reduction and offers practical steps for finance teams to stay compliant and maintain healthy cash flow.
Payday super is the most significant superannuation change
The new payday super reform means that every Australian business must pay superannuation within seven business days of paying salaries instead of quarterly. This impacts businesses of all sizes and requires more frequent cash outflows, challenging traditional payroll routines. The article explains how careful planning and the right tools can help small businesses protect cash flow, maintain ATO compliance, and strengthen staff trust. It offers detailed guidance on managing these changes and mitigating risks of falling behind.
Australia commits to OECD Crypto Asset Reporting
Discover why the OECD Crypto Asset Reporting Framework matters for Australians and act now to secure your records before ATO scrutiny.
Inheritance Tax Impact for Australian Beneficiaries
Learn how capital gains tax, super benefits and income tax affect your inheritance. Plan ahead to protect your loved ones’ legacy.
Master ATO 2026 Tax Prep for Brisbane Businesses
Brisbane small business owners must act now to prepare for ATO 2026 changes. Upgrade software, manage cash flow and secure success. Get started today
Unlock Hidden Wealth and Dodge ATO Tax Risks
Discover how the ATO targets Australia’s wealth transfer and learn smart strategies to secure your family legacy. Act now to protect your assets.
Powerful Family Trust Strategies for Tax Success 2026
Unlock tax benefits with a family trust in Australia. Discover expert strategies for loss concessions and compliant distributions. Act now.
Ultimate Guide to ATO Lodgments & Payments
Millions of Australians interact with the ATO each year to lodge returns, pay tax, and manage activity statements. This guide explains the importance of timely lodgments, outlines legal obligations, and offers a practical pathway to compliance, whether you’re a sole trader, company director, or individual salary earner.
Bookkeeper vs Accountant: Ultimate Guide for Aussie Biz
Australian business owners often struggle to decide between hiring a bookkeeper or an accountant. This guide explains the roles of each professional—from day-to-day BAS filing to strategic tax planning—and offers tips on staying compliant, preserving cash flow, and facilitating business growth.
Ultimate BAS Due Dates 2026: Avoid ATO Penalties!
Master BAS reporting for 2026, stay GST compliant & avoid penalties. Discover key due dates now!
100 Profitable Small Business Ideas in Australia
Starting a small business in Australia is exciting, but most idea lists ignore ABNs, GST thresholds, council permits, WHS duties and real startup costs. This guide shares 100 profitable, realistic business ideas that work in Australia, grouped by budget and skill level, with compliance checkpoints, cost estimates and practical first steps you can take within 72 hours.
ATO Interest No Longer Tax-Deductible from 1 July 2025: What Businesses Must Know
From 1 July 2025, the ATO’s General Interest Charge and Shortfall Interest Charge will no longer be deductible. This guide explains what has changed, how it affects business cash flow, and the strategies to minimise your exposure to costly interest.
The SBSCH Shutdown: How to Prepare for the End of the ATO’s Small Business Super Clearing House
The ATO will close the Small Business Superannuation Clearing House by 1 July 2026. Learn what the shutdown means for employers, key transition dates, and how to stay compliant under the new Payday Super regime.
ATO GST Reporting Changes – 2025
In 2025, GST reporting in Australia takes a sharp turn, even though the 10% GST rate remains unchanged. The ATO is shifting thousands of non-compliant small businesses from quarterly to monthly GST reporting starting 1 April 2025, while large businesses face a redesigned Supplementary Annual GST Return (SAGR). These changes won’t alter the law, but they will impact cash-flow, compliance workloads, and BAS deadlines. Whether you’re a café owner in Cairns or a corporate CFO in Sydney, preparing now for the ATO’s stricter reporting cycle will help you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and protect your working capital.
How to Use a Bucket Company to Save Thousands in Tax (Australia 2025)
A bucket company, also called a corporate beneficiary, can cap your tax at 25% and save thousands each year. This 2025 Australian guide explains how bucket companies work, step-by-step setup, ATO compliance rules, advanced strategies, and real-world examples.
Retention Money in Australian Construction Contracts – Complete 2025 Guide for Accountants & Contractors
Retention money in Australian construction – usually 5–10 % of each progress payment – affects cashflow, tax, and compliance across eight jurisdictions. This guide explains state trust-account rules, AASB 15 accounting treatment, GST timing, and practical strategies so bookkeepers, CFOs, and contractors can manage retentions without crippling liquidity.
ATO Tax Rules About Using Your Company’s Money
In 2025, Australian SMEs face stricter ATO scrutiny on how company funds are used. This guide breaks down Division 7A, Fringe Benefits Tax, and directors’ duties to help you stay compliant, avoid penalties, and make informed decisions when accessing company money.
How to Legally Give Gifts Without Triggering ATO Tax Issues
Australia scrapped gift tax decades ago, but Capital Gains Tax, Fringe Benefits Tax and Centrelink rules still bite. This guide shows how to give cash or assets safely, backed by 2025 ATO guidance.
Complete Guide to SMSF Compliance Audits in Australia (2025)
Staying compliant as an SMSF trustee in 2025 means more than just filing paperwork. This practical guide explains what auditors check, which ATO rules are under the spotlight, and how to prepare your fund for a smooth, penalty-free audit.
Supercharge Your Savings: The How-To Guide on Claiming Personal Super Contributions
Introduction: As you steer through the journey of financial planning, a common pit-stop is considering superannuation. While employer contributions to your super are the norm, what if we told you there’s a way to accelerate your savings and relish tax benefits simultaneously? Enter: personal superannuation contributions. Understanding Personal Super Contributions: Unlike the traditional path of
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