Insights and articles.
Practical guidance on tax, accounting, and business strategy from the EEA Advisory team.
Division 296 tax explained: how the new $3 million super cap hits SMSF members from 2026
Division 296 tax will change the way high balance SMSF members manage their super. From 1 July 2026 an extra tax will apply to earnings on balances above three million dollars and a further rate above ten million dollars. The measure is applied to individuals and paid from the super account in most cases. This article explains the rules in plain language and outlines planning steps for trustees before the first assessments arrive.
What the Proposed LRBA Ban Means for SMSF Investors
Australian SMSF trustees are facing a dramatic policy change that will impact how property wealth is built inside super. The government now prohibits limited recourse borrowing for residential real estate, meaning new loans for houses and apartments are no longer permitted. Existing loans remain safe, but the window for new leveraged purchases is closing quickly. Trustees are urged to understand the changes and take proactive steps ahead of the mid-August 2026 deadline.
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.
What Happens to a Family Business When a Director Dies
When an Australian family business loses a director, the company remains alive as a separate legal entity. It can continue trading, paying staff and entering contracts. The future depends on having other directors, share ownership, and a valid will with an appointed executor. Understanding these legal threads keeps the enterprise thriving, avoids conflict and protects family wealth.
SMSF vs Industry Super Fund and How to Set One Up in 2026
Australians face a growing debate between self managed and industry super funds as their retirement savings evolve. This guide clearly explains the control, fees and lifestyle factors that set SMSFs apart from larger industry funds. It walks through practical steps to set up either option under the latest rules. Written in plain English and based on current regulatory guidelines, this article offers essential information for everyday retirement planning.
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.
What Is Your Business Worth When You Sell in Australia
Selling your business in Australia requires understanding its true worth and the many factors that shape the final sale price. This guide explains how professional valuers use earnings, assets and risk assessments to measure value. With clear Australian examples and fresh data, the article shows how planning ahead can help you prepare for lawyer, accountant and tax office costs. It offers practical steps that turn valuation into a strategic tool for success.
How Debt Recycling Works for Australian Business Owners
Australian business owners can benefit from debt recycling which converts non deductible mortgage debt into tax deductible investment debt. This strategy uses spare cash to reduce the principal on the home loan while reborrowing funds for investment. Over time more of the interest expense becomes deductible and investment wealth builds gradually. The guide explains how to implement debt recycling safely and compliantly with practical steps for success.
How Family Trust Distributions Are Taxed in Australia (2026)
Family trusts remain a popular structure among Australian families and small businesses because they offer flexible ways to distribute income and protect assets. This guide explains how trust income flows to beneficiaries under current tax law and examines present entitlement rules. It details the Family Trust Election framework and the risk of an unexpected forty seven per cent tax bill. An upcoming reform proposing a minimum tax of thirty per cent from July 2028 highlights the need for careful future planning.
NDIS provider accounting and tax compliance — sole-trader vs company structure
Choosing the right business structure plays a crucial role for NDIS providers in Australia. In this article we explain how operating as a sole trader offers simplicity, lower cost and fewer administrative demands. However a proprietary limited company provides stronger liability protection and better opportunities for growth when managing larger service agreements and investors. Readers will gain insight on how each structure affects tax, governance and compliance obligations, helping them align their risk appetite and future plans with the most suitable option.
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.