News & Articles
Whether you’re looking to stay ahead of tax updates, seeking strategic advice to propel your business forward, or exploring financial best practices for your investment property, our curated content is designed to empower and inform. Dive into our comprehensive collection of articles and equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate the financial landscape with confidence.
When DIY Bookkeeping Starts Costing More Than It Saves
When you launched your business, handling the books yourself made sense. You were watching every dollar, wearing every hat, and learning the ropes. A spreadsheet here, a receipt folder there. It’s manageable enough. But as your business grows, so does the complexity....
Is That Really the ATO Calling? Here’s How to Know for Sure
If you've ever picked up a call from someone claiming to be from the ATO and felt that knot of anxiety in your stomach, you're not alone. ATO impersonation scams have been doing the rounds for years, and they've gotten more convincing over time. Callers can sound...
Employee Shares vs Equity Ownership: Key Differences and Tax Implications
Offering or receiving shares in a business is increasingly common in Australia, particularly among startups and growing companies. However, there is a clear distinction between employee share schemes (ESS) and equity ownership. Each structure carries different rights,...
How to Become Financially Independent Without Trying Too Hard
Why do some people achieve financial independence while others struggle financially, even when they earn significantly more? It’s a question many financial advisers encounter regularly. Surprisingly, the answer often has less to do with income and more to do with...
Division 296 Tax: New $3 Million Super Balance Tax Explained
The Australian Parliament has passed legislation for a new tax on superannuation balances over $3 million, commonly known as the Division 296 tax or “$3 million super tax”. This measure will take effect from 1 July 2026, fundamentally changing how earnings on large...
Capital Gains Tax Discount: What It Means for Property Investors
If you’ve been following the news lately, you’ve probably noticed capital gains tax (CGT) creeping back into the headlines again. With Treasurer Jim Chalmers openly acknowledging that tax reform is on the table, and housing affordability once again front and centre,...
Rich vs Poor Thinking: How Your Mindset Shapes Wealth
What is the difference between the rich and the poor, apart from the obvious, their wealth? At its core, the difference comes down to how they think. For years, I’ve believed that rich people think differently from poor people. This idea is powerfully explained in...
The Right Business Structure for Property Development
When planning a property development project, most people focus on the site, the numbers, and the potential profit. But one of the most important decisions you’ll make happens much earlier. It’s choosing the right business structure. Your structure determines how...
Tax Implications of Subdividing Land in Australia
Thinking about subdividing your block of land? Subdividing land is a common strategy for property owners to maximise the value of their property. If you are looking for guidance from experienced property and business tax accountants, getting the structure right from...
Got a Holiday Home? The ATO Is Tightening Deduction Rules
If you have a holiday home, the ATO is now paying much more attention to the deductions owners are claiming. They’re taking a stricter approach, so even if you rent the property out from time to time, you might find that some of the deductions you’ve been used to...
Understanding the New Payday Super Rules for 2026
Payday Super Changes for Employers Payroll already has plenty going on, from paying staff to managing cash flow and staying compliant. But starting 1 July 2026, things are set to change in a big way with the introduction of Payday Super. The new law, officially...
What Is an SMSF and How Does It Work?
What Is an SMSF? A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) is a private superannuation fund that you manage yourself. Like all super funds, its purpose is to provide retirement benefits to its members. However, unlike retail or industry super funds, an SMSF gives you full...
Understanding the New Payday Super Rules for 2026
Payday Super Changes for Employers Payroll already has plenty going on, from paying staff to managing cash flow and staying compliant. But starting 1 July 2026, things are set to change in a big way with the introduction of Payday Super. The new law, officially...
How to Understand the Financial Statements of Your Small Business
A carpenter cannot do his job without knowing how to use the tools of his trade like a hammer or a saw A small business owner cannot do his job without knowing how to use the tools of running a business, like understanding the Financial Statements of his business....
How Much Are BAS Late Lodgment Penalties?
Fallen behind on BAS? Learn about ATO penalties, interest and possible penalty remissions.
Safer Alternatives to Gifting Money to Your Children
After more than 40 years of advising families, I’ve seen many parents make the mistake of gifting money to their children. It may feel generous to give them a deposit for their first home or provide a loan to help with a purchase, but this can easily backfire. With...
Why Share Prices Follow the Business
It’s easy to get distracted by daily price changes. Over time, though, share prices tend to follow the strength of the business behind them. Share Prices Reflect Business Fundamentals When you invest in shares, it’s easy to get distracted by daily price changes. But...
Tax Obligations of Online Sellers in Australia
Online selling has become one of the fastest-growing ways to run a business, both for Australians and for overseas sellers reaching Australian customers. Whether you sell physical products, digital goods, or services, it’s important to understand your tax obligations....
GST and BAS Obligations for Commercial Property Lessors
If you own and lease out commercial property, understanding your GST and BAS obligations is key to staying compliant and managing your finances well. Unlike residential landlords, commercial property lessors often deal with GST on rent and outgoings, which means you...
Do Sole Traders Need to Lodge a BAS?
If you’re a sole trader, you might be wondering if you need to lodge a Business Activity Statement (BAS). Understanding your BAS obligations is essential to stay on the right side of the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and avoid costly mistakes. Here’s what you need...
How Using Property for Business Affects Your Tax in Australia
If you use a property to run your business—whether you own it, lease it, or use part of your home—it’s important to understand how that affects your taxes. The way you use property can change what you can claim, how you report your income, and what happens if you sell...
BAS Tips for Small Business Owners
For every small business in Australia that’s registered for GST, preparing and lodging a Business Activity Statement (BAS) is a must. Staying compliant with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) means lodging on time, reporting accurately, and keeping your records in...
Claiming GST on eCommerce Business Expenses
Running an online business in Australia—whether you sell on Amazon, Shopify, eBay, or your own website—means staying on top of your GST obligations. If you're registered for GST, claiming GST credits on eligible business expenses can significantly reduce how much you...
Top 6 GST Mistakes Made by Importers & Exporters in Australia
If your business buys from overseas or sells to customers outside Australia, it's important to understand how GST works. Getting it wrong can mean missed tax credits, penalties, or problems with the ATO—especially for small and growing businesses. Here are some of the...
How Using Property for Business Affects Your Tax in Australia
If you use a property to run your business—whether you own it, lease it, or use part of your home—it’s important to understand how that affects your taxes. The way you use property can change what you can claim, how you report your income, and what happens if you sell...
Australia’s Luxury Property Market Reaches New Heights in 2025*
Thinking of buying a high-end property or just curious about how the luxury market is doing? Here’s some good news—Australia’s luxury property market is booming again. According to the 2025 Prestige Property Report by Westpac, the value of top-tier homes reached a new...
Property Developer’s Guide to Tax and GST in Australia
Whether you're subdividing land, building to sell, or flipping houses, property development in Australia comes with strict tax and GST obligations. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) treats developers differently from investors — and misunderstanding this difference...
Unrealised Gains Tax Explained: How It Could Impact Your Super
How would you feel if you were taxed on paper gains (before asset is even sold) instead of being taxed on cash gains (after you have sold the asset) and you have the cash to pay the tax? What Is Being Proposed? Treasurer Jim Chalmers proposed a new policy during the...
7 Smart Tax Tips Every Property Investor Should Know
If you own a rental property, you know how important it is to stay ahead of tax time. While interest rates, property prices, and policy debates might come and go, one thing stays the same—smart tax planning can help you save money and make your investment more...
SPVs for Property Developers
What is a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV)? A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) is a legal entity created for a specific, narrow objective—often to hold a particular asset, manage a project, or isolate financial risk. SPVs are commonly used in property development, joint...
Property Investment Strategies to Grow Your Business
Investing in property can do more than just build wealth—it can also strengthen your business. When done strategically, property investments can reduce costs, provide stability, and create long-term financial security. Whether you’re looking to expand, increase...
Property Investors Trust: A Smart Way to Safeguard Your Assets
For property investors, protecting assets is just as important as growing them. With the right structure in place, you can shield your real estate investments from legal and financial risks while maximising tax benefits. One of the most effective structures for asset...
Top Strategies for Lowering Your 2025 NSW Land Tax Bill
With the 2025 NSW Land Tax Assessments now arriving, it’s important to check if you’re paying more than you should. Many property owners miss out on exemptions or end up with unexpected charges simply because they don’t understand the rules. Here are some key factors...
How the 2025 RBA Rate Cut Impacts Your Mortgage Repayments
If you’re like millions of Australians, you’re probably relieved after getting a break from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) following consistent interest rate hikes since April 2022. The good news? Most banks have agreed to pass on the 0.25% rate reduction,...
NSW Capital Gains Withholding Changes from 2025
New updates to the Capital Gains Withholding (CGW) regime in New South Wales came into effect from 1 January 2025, introducing stricter requirements for property transactions involving foreign residents. These changes will impact both buyers and sellers of real...
New ATO Audit Update: How Rental Bonds Could Flag You
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is stepping up its game, using rental bond data to identify landlords who might not be meeting their tax obligations. Let’s break down what this means for you and how you can ensure you stay on the right side of the ATO. Why Is...
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Federal Government Announces Changes to Superannuation Contribution Caps
Discover the latest updates in superannuation contributions brought to you by Chan & Naylor. The Federal government has just announced significant changes to contribution caps, set to take effect from July 1, 2024. Let's explore these changes and their potential...
News update- SMSF mortgage
Do you own property and hold a mortgage in your Self-Managed Super Fund? If so, it might be a good idea to review your current interest rate. At Chan and Naylor Finance, we have had countless clients coming to us with existing Superfund lending products, paying...
Superannuation guarantee percentage about to increase
Are you An employer? At a glance: The super guarantee (SG) rate will increase from 10.5% to 11% on 1 July 2023. You should Update your payroll systems to align with the increase; the new SG rate applies to payments made to workers on or after 1 July 2023. Contact us...
Why the Current Superfund Rules Are Fair
When Morrison, as treasurer, limited Super to $1.7m (together with a spouse $3.4m), that meant a 5% return earned $170K in tax-free income (for a couple) and $85K for a single, was sufficient to live on and reversed Superfunds from a tax avoidance vehicle to a genuine...
Why SMSF to Invest in Property
Recently, the government has proposed higher taxes on Superfunds and limitations on the amounts allowed to be held in a SMSF. In my opinion, this would be a serious long-term mistake, as it may discourage people from becoming self-sufficient and force them to rely on...
What’s all the fuss about a Self-Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF)?
Despite recently proposed changes announced by the Government, your superannuation (super) fund will most likely be the primary vehicle for achieving your retirement goals and if managed properly, it should end up being one of your largest assets – more than enough to...
Public Super or Self Managed Super Fund – It Is All About Performance
The whys of poor super funds performance always boil down to one reason and mostly one reason alone: the fees are too high. While it's a good idea to have your super managed by a fund if you don't have the time nor the expertise to manage it, staying in control of...
Changes to Superannuation
There are a lot of changes proposed for Superannuation in 2022. Thanks to constant changes in super rules, it's all too easy to miss out on an opportunity you didn't know existed. What we know as of February 2022. – Great news for retirees The key superannuation...
New Disclosure Reform Warnings | Chan & Naylor
Super funds warn members may lose out from new disclosure reforms The Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees (AIST) has come out with a warning that new disclosure regulations may harm member returns. “Requiring super funds to disclose the precise value of...
Superannuation Fees Explained
Superannuation Fees Explained | What Fees are you charged A previously released study from the Productivity Commission has revealed that Australians who moved from poorly performing funds to the best fund could benefit by as much as $600,ooo in retirement. (Source:...
Federal Budget 2021 – Superannuation Changes
No changes to increase in superannuation guarantee percentage Despite increasing pressure from some businesses and the media to again pause the superannuation guarantee (SG) rate, no changes were announced to the SG rate in the Budget. Consequently, from 1 July 2021,...
Top Tips for Preparing Your End Of Financial Year (EOFY) Income Tax Return
Top Tips for Preparing Your Income Tax Return The end of the financial year can be an exhausting and stressful time for small businesses and individuals. Throw in the complications of Covid-19, and, preparing for the EOFY has become an increasingly complicated process...
2024 ATO Audit Focus: 3 Key Areas
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has identified three main areas of focus for this tax season to ensure compliance and accuracy in tax returns. These key areas include work-related expenses, rental property income, and capital gains from cryptocurrency...
2024 Federal Budget: Tax Reforms, Small Business Support, and Social Initiatives
On 14 May 2024, the Australian Federal Government presented the 2024/25 Federal Budget. This budget outlines a comprehensive plan to strengthen the country's economy and provide more support to its citizens. Announced in a time of changing economic conditions, the...
Essential Qualities to Look for in Your Property Accountant
Searching for the ideal property accountant is similar to discovering a trusted ally for your financial path. It’s about partnering with someone who shares your commitment to success. In this guide, we'll unveil the 10 essential qualities your property accountant...
Revised Stage 3 Tax Cuts in Australia: What You Need to Know
Key Points Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced significant changes to Australia's Stage 3 tax cuts on 25 January 2024. The lowest tax rate is reduced from 19% to 16% for incomes under $45,000. Adjustments made to tax brackets to provide relief for middle-income...
The 2023-2024 Federal Budget Updates – Key Tax Measures
The 2023-2024 Federal Budget was introduced amid daunting economic challenges, including high inflation, escalating interest rates, a persistent housing supply crisis, and an unstable global financial market. Nevertheless, the budget offers a glimmer of hope as it...
Private health insurance rebate income thresholds are changing
Are you A taxpayer who has private health insurance? At a glance: On 1 July 2023 (for the 2023-24 income year), the income thresholds for the calculation of the private health insurance rebate will change. You should Contact us if you require clarification or advice....
Instant asset write-off ending 30 June 2023
Are you A business who intends purchasing or improving an asset before 30 June 2023? At a glance: You are still able to deduct the full cost of eligible assets up until 30 June 2023. You should Contact us if you require any clarification or advice Some pointers about...
Why the Current Superfund Rules Are Fair
When Morrison, as treasurer, limited Super to $1.7m (together with a spouse $3.4m), that meant a 5% return earned $170K in tax-free income (for a couple) and $85K for a single, was sufficient to live on and reversed Superfunds from a tax avoidance vehicle to a genuine...
Top 10 Tax Deductions for Small Businesses
Running a business is always challenging. Between inventory, paperwork, and taxes, having your own business can sometimes feel like an uphill battle. But don't let the confusion of filing tax returns get you down, small business owners can take advantage of plenty of...
A New Compliance Storm – Director Penalties
New figures from the ATO reveal that it issued 18,500 Director Penalty Notices (DPNs) in 2022 and disclosed the tax debts of almost 500 businesses to credit referral agencies. This new weapon waved in $714 million tax debt payment for the Government agency, and an...
Rate rises, when will they end?!
On the first Tuesday in December Phillip Lowe and the RBA announced their 8th consecutive increase to the Reserve Bank Cash Rate. This takes us to the highest cash rate (3.1%) in over 10 years, and this has and will have, a significant impact on the housing and...
Unwrapping the Joys and Pitfalls of Giving
Christmas is a time of giving, when thoughts turn to family and to helping those less fortunate. To gift in a meaningful way that maximises the benefits, it’s important to consider tax. While Australia doesn’t have a gift tax, there are tax considerations...
Small Business Energy Tax Boost: Maximise Your Tax Deductions
If you are a business owner who invested in energy-saving measures during the past financial year, you may qualify for additional tax savings through the Small Business Energy Incentive. Designed for businesses with an annual turnover under $50 million, this...
Avoid These Common Tax Scams in Australia This 2024
As Australians handle their financial duties, including filing tax returns and meeting various obligations, they face the ongoing threat of tax scams. However, there is a persistent threat of tax scams, as fraudsters continually develop more sophisticated methods to...
Cindy Su Wins Partner of the Year at the 2024 Australian Accounting Awards
We are immensely proud to announce that our managing partner, Cindy Su, has been awarded the prestigious title of Partner of the Year at the recently held 2024 Australian Accounting Awards. This accolade is a testament to Cindy's exceptional leadership, dedication,...
2024-25 NSW Budget: Impact on Property Investors
The recently announced 2024-25 NSW Budget has made headlines due to a dramatic shift from a projected surplus to a $3.6 billion deficit, revealed on Tuesday, June 18th. With the State’s AAA credit rating at risk, the Government is turning to land taxes for quick cash...
2024 ATO Audit Focus: 3 Key Areas
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has identified three main areas of focus for this tax season to ensure compliance and accuracy in tax returns. These key areas include work-related expenses, rental property income, and capital gains from cryptocurrency...
2024 Federal Budget: Tax Reforms, Small Business Support, and Social Initiatives
On 14 May 2024, the Australian Federal Government presented the 2024/25 Federal Budget. This budget outlines a comprehensive plan to strengthen the country's economy and provide more support to its citizens. Announced in a time of changing economic conditions, the...
Ed Chan and Cindy Su Finalists for 2024 Australian Accounting Awards
Edit: We are very proud to announce that Cindy Su has won the highly coveted 2024 Partner of the Year Award. This achievement highlights her exceptional leadership and dedication to the accounting profession. - We are thrilled to announce that our co-founder and...
Recent ATO Focus: Payment Plans and Rental Property Deductions
In a time of increased oversight and stricter regulations, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is emphasising that tax reliefs like payment plans should be accessed only by those who truly need them. Additionally, the ATO is keeping a close watch on deduction claims...
The ATO’s Legal Win Over SingTel
The Australian Tax Office (ATO) has secured a noteworthy win in court against SingTel regarding its purchase of Optus, marking a significant moment for tax compliance among multinational corporations. This victory underscores the necessity for companies to adhere to...
FBT Exemptions for Electric Vehicles
What is Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT)? Fringe Benefits Tax, commonly known as FBT, is a tax employers pay on certain benefits they provide to their employees, including their employees' family or other associates. The benefit may be in addition to, or part of, their...
Federal Government Announces Changes to Superannuation Contribution Caps
Discover the latest updates in superannuation contributions brought to you by Chan & Naylor. The Federal government has just announced significant changes to contribution caps, set to take effect from July 1, 2024. Let's explore these changes and their potential...
Revised Stage 3 Tax Cuts in Australia: What You Need to Know
Key Points Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced significant changes to Australia's Stage 3 tax cuts on 25 January 2024. The lowest tax rate is reduced from 19% to 16% for incomes under $45,000. Adjustments made to tax brackets to provide relief for middle-income...