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Choosing The Right Super Fund For Your Needs

Posted on March 14, 2024 by admin


Selecting the right superannuation fund is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your financial future in retirement. With numerous options available, it’s essential to understand the key factors to consider when making this important choice. Let’s examine the factors that should guide your decision-making process to ensure you choose a superannuation fund that aligns with your needs and goals. Investment Performance: One of the primary considerations when choosing a superannuation fund is its investment performance. Look for funds that have consistently delivered strong returns over the long term, considering factors such as risk-adjusted performance and investment strategy. Review historical performance data and compare it to relevant benchmarks to assess the fund’s track record. Fees and Costs: Fees and costs can significantly impact the growth of your superannuation savings over time. Consider the fund’s management fees, administration fees, and any other charges associated with investing in the fund. Look for funds that offer competitive fees while providing value for their services. Keep in mind that even seemingly small differences in fees can have a substantial impact on your retirement savings over time. Investment Options: Evaluate the investment options available within the superannuation fund to ensure they align with your risk […]


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Fringe Benefits Tax Considerations For Australian Businesses

Posted on March 4, 2024 by admin


For businesses operating in Australia, navigating the intricacies of the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) is essential to ensure compliance with tax regulations and minimise financial liabilities. FBT is a tax paid on certain employee benefits in addition to their salary or wages. From understanding what constitutes a fringe benefit to managing FBT reporting requirements, here are the important considerations for Australian businesses. What Constitutes a Fringe Benefit? Businesses must understand what qualifies as a fringe benefit under Australian tax law. Fringe benefits can include perks such as company cars, health insurance, housing allowances, entertainment expenses, and more. Even seemingly minor benefits provided to employees may be subject to FBT, so it’s essential to review all employee benefits carefully to determine their tax implications. Types of Fringe Benefits Fringe benefits can be categorised into various types, each subject to specific tax treatment. Common types of fringe benefits include: Car fringe benefits: These are provided when employers make cars available for private use by employees. Expense payment fringe benefits: Reimbursements of expenses employees incur, such as entertainment or travel expenses. Residual fringe benefits: Any benefits that don’t fall into the other categories, such as providing property or services. Exemptions and Concessions While […]


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Common Challenges Businesses Face (And Strategies To Face Them With)

Posted on February 26, 2024 by admin


Starting and running a business is an exhilarating journey filled with opportunities for growth and success. However, along the way, entrepreneurs inevitably encounter trials and tribulations that test their resilience and determination. From economic downturns to unexpected setbacks, here are some common challenges businesses face and strategies for overcoming them: Economic Uncertainty: Economic downturns, market fluctuations, and global crises can significantly impact businesses of all sizes. During times of uncertainty, it’s crucial for businesses to reassess their strategies, streamline operations, and prioritise financial stability. Diversifying revenue streams, reducing unnecessary expenses, and maintaining open communication with stakeholders can help businesses weather economic storms. Competition: In today’s competitive business landscape, standing out from the crowd is essential for success. Businesses must continuously innovate, differentiate their offerings, and deliver exceptional customer value. Conducting thorough market research, understanding competitors’ strengths and weaknesses, and leveraging unique selling propositions are key strategies for staying ahead. Cash Flow Management: Cash flow challenges are a common concern for businesses, particularly startups and small enterprises. Poor cash flow management can lead to liquidity issues, missed opportunities, and even business failure. Implementing effective cash flow forecasting, establishing clear payment terms with customers and suppliers, and exploring financing options such as […]


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Closing The Gap: Gender & Superannuation

Posted on February 19, 2024 by admin


There exists a persistent and concerning gender gap in superannuation. Women often find themselves disadvantaged compared to their male counterparts when building wealth for their golden years. Superannuation plays a crucial role in this narrative, whether via income, career breaks or even Australia’s retirement savings system. Let us explore the factors contributing to the gender gap in superannuation and discuss actionable steps to empower women to bridge this divide and secure their financial futures. Understanding The Gender Gap Income Disparity: One of the primary drivers of the gender gap in superannuation is the income disparity between men and women. Women, on average, earn less than men across various industries and occupations, resulting in lower superannuation contributions throughout their working lives. Career Interruptions: Women are more likely to experience career interruptions due to caregiving responsibilities, including raising children or caring for elderly relatives. These interruptions can lead to periods of reduced income and missed superannuation contributions, further widening the gender gap in retirement savings. Part-Time Employment: Women are disproportionately represented in part-time and casual employment, often with lower wages and reduced access to employer-sponsored superannuation contributions. Longer Life Expectancy: On average, women tend to live longer than men, requiring more significant […]


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Explaining The New Reporting Regime For The Sharing Economy

Posted on February 12, 2024 by admin


The Sharing Economy Reporting Regime (SERR) represents a significant development in Australia’s tax landscape, requiring certain businesses operating in the sharing economy to report specific transactions to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Commencing from 1 July 2023 for selected industries and expanding further from 1 July 2024, SERR aims to enhance tax compliance, increase transparency, and gather valuable insights into sharing economy activities. Let’s dive into the key aspects of SERR and outline what small businesses need to know to ensure compliance. Scope and Purpose of SERR: SERR applies to transactions facilitated through Electronic Distribution Platforms (EDPs), encompassing activities such as ride-sourcing, short-term accommodation, and the hiring of assets or services. The regime aims to collect information on transactions connected with Australia to enhance tax integrity, identify non-compliant participants, and inform compliance strategies. What Is An Electronic Distribution Platform  (EDPs) Under SERR, an EDP refers to a service that enables sellers to offer supplies to buyers through electronic communication channels. This encompasses various online platforms such as websites, internet portals, applications, and marketplaces. EDPs play a crucial role in facilitating transactions within the sharing economy and are central to the reporting requirements under SERR. Reporting Obligations for EDP Operators EDP […]


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Crafting Your Own New Year’s Business Resolution In 2024

Posted on February 5, 2024 by admin


With business operations underway, a new calendar year presents a perfect opportunity for entrepreneurs and business professionals to reflect on the past and set the stage for future success. Crafting a meaningful business resolution is not just about setting lofty goals; it’s about creating a plan that resonates with your unique aspirations and challenges. So, how can you develop a New Year business resolution that works for you? Reflect on the Past Year Before diving into the future, take a moment to reflect on the past year. Identify key achievements, challenges, and areas for improvement. Understanding your business’s current standing provides valuable insights for crafting a resolution that addresses specific needs. Define Clear Objectives A successful business resolution starts with clear objectives. Define what you want to achieve in the coming year, ensuring your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Whether it’s increasing revenue, expanding your customer base, or streamlining internal processes, clarity is key. Align with Your Vision and Values Your business resolution should align seamlessly with your company’s vision and values. Consider how your goals contribute to the overall mission of your business. When your resolution reflects your core principles, it becomes a powerful driving […]


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How The Small Business CGT Concessions Could Boost Your Super

Posted on January 29, 2024 by admin


As a small business owner gearing up for retirement, selling your business can be a strategic move to give your nest egg that final boost. However, navigating the intricacies of selling a business requires careful consideration, especially when it comes to contributing the sale proceeds to your superannuation fund. Let’s explore these essential considerations and small business concessions that can significantly impact your retirement savings. Remember: always consult with a trusted and licensed adviser before acting. When selling a business or business asset, small business owners have the opportunity to contribute a substantial portion of the sale proceeds to their superannuation fund without breaching the super caps. To make this work effectively, it’s crucial to understand and leverage four small business concessions that can help minimize capital gains tax (CGT) implications. The 15-Year Exemption The 15-year exemption is the most valuable concession, allowing superannuation contributions beyond the usual caps (generally as a non-concessional contribution). However, the contribution must be made on or before the later of: the day you lodge your income tax return for the income year in which the relevant CGT event happened 30 days after you received capital proceeds. If you receive a 15-year exemption amount from […]


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Understanding Non-Assessable Non-Exempt (NANE) Income Through Disaster Grants

Posted on January 22, 2024 by admin


The recent spate of extreme weather events during the summer in various parts of Australia has presented unprecedented challenges for small businesses. As a result, the pressing concerns they face may not necessarily revolve around their tax obligations. However, amidst these trying times, business owners must be aware of the tax implications associated with the grants they may have received for support. This may include knowing whether their grants are deemed assessable or non-assessable income and the implications of either for their tax returns. Non-Assessable Or Assessable Income? In the wake of challenging times, many businesses have been fortunate enough to receive grants aimed at helping them navigate through financial difficulties. As businesses gear up to file their tax returns, a fundamental question arises – is the received grant considered assessable or non-assessable income? In general, grants are treated as assessable income, adding to the taxable revenue of the business. However, a subset of business support grants is formally declared as non-assessable, non-exempt (NANE) income. This distinction is crucial as it determines whether the grant needs to be included in the tax return or can be excluded under specific eligibility criteria. Understanding Non-Assessable Non-Exempt (NANE) Income Non-assessable non-exempt income refers […]


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Chasing Up End Of Year Invoices

Posted on December 18, 2023 by admin


As the calendar year draws to a close, businesses often find themselves in a familiar but often challenging position – chasing invoices. A healthy cash flow is the lifeblood of any business, providing the necessary resources for day-to-day operations, expansion, and resilience in the face of unforeseen challenges. Timely invoice collection at the end of the year is instrumental in maintaining this financial vitality. Let’s explore the nuances of businesses chasing invoices at the end of the year, shedding light on the strategies, challenges, and importance of maintaining a healthy cash flow during this crucial period. The Year-End Rush: Strategic Cash Flow Management: As businesses assess their financial health at the close of the year, effective cash flow management takes center stage. Chasing outstanding invoices becomes a strategic imperative, ensuring that the company enters the new year on solid financial footing. It allows businesses to meet their financial obligations, invest in growth opportunities, and navigate the uncertainties that lie ahead. Meeting Year-End Targets: Achieving year-end targets often hinges on the successful collection of outstanding payments. Businesses may have specific financial goals, such as meeting revenue targets, reducing outstanding debt, or improving overall liquidity. Chasing invoices in a timely manner is […]


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Rightsizing Your Lifestyle: The Art of Property Downsizing

Posted on December 11, 2023 by admin


As retirees embrace a new phase in their lives, the concept of property downsizing is gaining momentum as a strategic and rewarding financial move. Downsizing isn’t just about reducing square footage; it’s a lifestyle choice that can offer a range of benefits for those entering their golden years. The Changing Landscape of Retirement Living Many retirees find themselves sitting on a valuable asset—the family home. The Australian property market has witnessed significant growth over the years, and this presents a unique opportunity for retirees. Downsizing involves selling a larger property, often the family home, and purchasing a smaller, more manageable one. This shift not only streamlines day-to-day living but also releases equity tied up in the existing property. Financial Freedom and Flexibility One of the primary advantages of downsizing for retirees is the financial windfall it can generate. Selling a larger property in a desirable location can lead to a substantial cash injection. This liquidity can be used to fund retirement activities, travel plans, or simply serve as a safety net for unexpected expenses. Downsizing gives retirees the financial freedom to enjoy their retirement years without the burden of maintaining a larger property. Enhanced Lifestyle and Convenience Downsizing often means […]


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Choosing The Right Super Fund For Your Needs

March 14, 2024

Selecting the right superannuation fund is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your financial future in retirement.

With numerous options available, it’s essential to understand the key factors to consider when making this important choice.

Let’s examine the factors that should guide your decision-making process to ensure you choose a superannuation fund that aligns with your needs and goals.

  1. Investment Performance:

One of the primary considerations when choosing a superannuation fund is its investment performance. Look for funds that have consistently delivered strong returns over the long term, considering factors such as risk-adjusted performance and investment strategy. Review historical performance data and compare it to relevant benchmarks to assess the fund’s track record.

  1. Fees and Costs:

Fees and costs can significantly impact the growth of your superannuation savings over time. Consider the fund’s management fees, administration fees, and any other charges associated with investing in the fund. Look for funds that offer competitive fees while providing value for their services. Keep in mind that even seemingly small differences in fees can have a substantial impact on your retirement savings over time.

  1. Investment Options:

Evaluate the investment options available within the superannuation fund to ensure they align with your risk tolerance and investment objectives. Look for diversified investment options, including cash, bonds, equities, and alternative investments. Consider whether the fund offers pre-mixed investment options or the flexibility to build your investment portfolio according to your preferences.

  1. Insurance Coverage:

Many superannuation funds offer insurance coverage, including life insurance, total and permanent disability (TPD) insurance, and income protection insurance. Assess the insurance offerings each fund provides, including the coverage level, premiums, and any exclusions or limitations. Choose a fund that offers appropriate insurance coverage to protect yourself and your loved ones in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

  1. Member Services and Support:

Consider the level of member services and support offered by the superannuation fund, including online account management, educational resources, and access to financial advice. Evaluate the fund’s customer service reputation and responsiveness to member inquiries or concerns. Opt for a fund that prioritises member satisfaction and provides resources to help you make informed decisions about your retirement savings.

Choosing the right superannuation fund is a critical step in planning your retirement’s financial future.

By considering factors such as investment performance, fees and costs, investment options, insurance coverage, and member services, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and goals.

Regularly review your superannuation fund’s performance and reassess your choices as your circumstances change to ensure you can achieve your retirement objectives.