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Changes to GST on low-value imported goods

Australian goods and services tax (GST) will be implemented on sales of low-value goods imported into Australia by consumers as of 1 July 2018.

According to the ATO, business will have to register for GST, change GST on sales of low-value imported goods and lodge returns if they meet the $75,000 AUD registration threshold.

These business includes merchants who sell goods, electronic distribution platform operators or re-delivers. Customs duty and clearance charges will be changed to the importer at the border under existing process should goods be imported in a consignment over the value of $1,000 AUD.

Through the implementation of this new law, businesses will not:
– Charge GST on a sale where GST is to be charged at the border. This occurs when an item is worth over $1,000 AUD or is a tobacco product or alcoholic beverage.
– Need to charge GST where it is clear that multiple goods will be shipped in the one consignment coming to a value of over $1,000 AUD. In these instances, GST will be charged at the border instead.

The ATO will be holding a number of international engagements on the application of Australian GST to low-value, imported goods sales throughout November 2017.

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No More Shortcuts: The Methods You Can Use To Claim WFH Expenses

March 25, 2024

Ensure you’re up to date on how to claim your working-from-home expenses!

As the business landscape shifts back and forth between office, hybrid and home-based work opportunities, it’s important to remember what methods are available to you when it comes to claiming. If part of your role allows you to work from home, you may be able to claim certain expenses on your tax return this year using one of the following methods.

The Revised Fixed Rate Method:

Under the revised fixed rate method, individuals can claim 67 cents per hour worked from home during the relevant income year. This rate includes additional running expenses, such as home and mobile internet or data, phone usage, and electricity and gas for heating, cooling, and lighting. Importantly, using this method, you cannot claim separate deductions for these expenses.

To use this method, taxpayers must maintain records of the total number of hours worked from home and the expenses incurred while working at home. Additionally, they must keep records of expenses not covered by the fixed rate per work hour, demonstrating the work-related portion of those expenses.

What Records Do You Need?

Previously, taxpayers required a dedicated workspace at home. From 1st March 2023 onwards, the record-keeping requirement has shifted again, necessitating the recording of all hours worked from home as they occur.

How Does The Fixed Rate Method Work?

To utilise the revised fixed rate method:

The Actual Cost Method:

Alternatively, taxpayers can opt for the actual cost method, where deductions are calculated based on actual additional expenses incurred while working from home. This includes expenses for depreciating assets, energy expenses, phone and internet, stationery, computer consumables, and cleaning dedicated home offices.

What Records Do You Need?

To claim work-from-home expenses using actual costs, you must maintain records showing:

How Does The Actual Cost Method Work?

To claim actual expenses:

Australians need to understand their entitlements and tax deductions while working remotely.

Consulting with a tax advisor can provide valuable insights into available concessions, deductions, and offsets for your tax return.

By staying informed and adhering to ATO guidelines, taxpayers can ensure compliance and make the most of available deductions in the evolving landscape of remote work. Why not start a conversation with us today?