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With 30 June now upon us, many business owners are breathing a sigh of relief (or will be this afternoon). Lodgements are being finalised and the pressure is easing on another year end, but with it barely in the rear-view mirror, what’s next?
The new financial year isn’t just a fresh start on financials – it’s a critical moment to take stock and get strategic. What you do in the weeks following EOFY can set the tone for your entire FY25–26.
So before you shift focus entirely, here are four key actions you can take now to set your business up for success and how Attune Advisory can help you make the most of the year ahead.
Once the dust has settled, take time to step back and look at how your business performed across the last financial year. This isn’t just about profit, it’s about understanding your numbers.
Ask yourself:
• What were the strongest months or quarters?
• Were there cash flow pinch points?
• Did certain service lines or products outperform expectations?
• What did you spend more on than planned, and why?
By examining performance with a clear head, you’ll be able to make data-backed decisions for the year ahead, not gut-based ones.
At Attune Advisory, we often support our clients in conducting a year-end performance review, helping uncover valuable insights and identifying where strategy can be improved. From there we’ve got the ammunition to help your business build a sound strategy, tailored to your goals, built on real data.
Don’t wait until tax time next year, or even your next lodgement to think about how your business is tracking. If you haven’t started already, now is the ideal time to:
• Set clear financial and operational goals
• Build or update your 12-month forecast
• Map out major projects, expected expenses, or staffing changes
Creating a forecast not only helps manage cash flow, it’s a vital tool for planning investment, understanding breakeven points, and seeing the bigger picture.
For growing businesses, Attune Advisory offers Virtual CFO services that provide exactly this kind of strategic oversight. It’s expert financial leadership — without the full-time price tag. But, even if you don’t need a Virtual CFO, you still may benefit from timely advice and strategic thinking that helps you move forward with confidence.
A new year brings new variables. Interest rates, supply costs, staff overheads and industry shifts can all affect your cash flow, sometimes significantly.
Now is the time to:
• Review and adjust your budget to reflect current market conditions
• Reassess your pricing strategy and cost structure
• Check that your invoicing and debt collection processes are still working for you
Don’t wait until a cash flow crisis forces your hand. A proactive approach, supported by real-time numbers, can be the difference between a stressful year and a successful one.
Too often, we see businesses only engage their accountant or advisor at tax time(s). But there’s so much value to be gained from year-round strategic advice, and that’s a huge part of what we offer and specialise in at Attune.
From reviewing your structure and tax planning strategies to helping you monitor KPIs and growth goals, our advisory team is here to help you stay ahead.
Whether you’re a sole trader, growing startup, or established company, our team works alongside you, offering insights, accountability, and clarity.
EOFY might be (just about) over, but this is where the real opportunity lies for the year ahead.
By reviewing your performance, setting smart goals, and managing cash flow proactively, you’ll be setting your business up for a stronger, more strategic year. And with the right support, you won’t have to do it alone.
Want to make this financial year your best yet?
Give the team at Attune Advisory a call on 1300 866 113 or send us an email to start the conversation – you’ll be glad you did.
With the end of the financial year just days away, many small and medium-sized business owners are feeling the pressure. It’s a time when the spotlight turns to compliance, reporting, and making sure everything is in order before 30 June.
But navigating your tax obligations can be daunting. The terms alone – ‘tax obligations’, ‘deductions’, ‘GST’, ‘capital gains tax’ – can feel overwhelming, especially when you're already juggling the demands of running a business.
At Attune Advisory, we understand that staying compliant with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) isn’t always straightforward. That’s why we’re here to offer practical support, proactive guidance, and a clear path forward so you can approach the last days of the financial year with clarity and confidence.
If you operate a business in Australia, you’re required to meet a range of tax responsibilities beyond simply lodging an annual return. While many of these are well-known, some are less obvious—and all are critical to staying compliant. These include:
• Registering for an Australian Business Number (ABN)
Every business must have an ABN for tax and identification purposes. Without it, you may lose access to tax credits and face higher withholding rates.
• Maintaining accurate financial records
This includes invoices, receipts, bank statements, and payroll records. Good record-keeping underpins everything from deductions to audits.
• Registering for GST (if applicable)
If your business has a GST turnover of $75,000 or more, you must register and meet all related obligations, including charging GST, lodging BAS, and claiming input credits.
• Paying income tax on profits
Depending on your structure (e.g., sole trader vs. company), this could involve personal tax returns or company tax obligations.
• Managing superannuation for employees
Super must be paid quarterly at minimum, and failure to meet deadlines can result in penalties—even if paid late.
• Withholding the correct amount of tax from employee wages (PAYG Withholding)
This is a key responsibility for employers, ensuring employees meet their tax obligations.
• Meeting fringe benefits tax (FBT) obligations
If your business provides employees with non-cash benefits (like a company car or entertainment), you may be required to report and pay FBT.
Failure to comply can result in financial penalties, unnecessary audits, and mounting stress. However, with the right systems and expert guidance tailored to your business, you can stay on top of your obligations – and even identify opportunities to reduce your tax burden and boost your financial efficiency.
Tax rules aren’t set-and-forget – they evolve alongside legislation, industry regulations, and your business structure. Regular reviews help ensure you remain compliant and position your business for growth.
Here’s what you should be reviewing:
1. Business Structure
Your structure (sole trader, partnership, trust, or company) affects everything from tax rates to reporting obligations. As your business grows or changes, it may be worth reassessing whether your current structure is still right for you.
2. Income and Expense Reporting
Be sure to capture every deductible business expense—from vehicle costs to depreciation of assets. Using cloud accounting software can automate much of this and reduce human error.
3. GST Registration and Reporting
If registered for GST, you must charge GST on taxable supplies, claim input tax credits, and lodge regular Business Activity Statements (monthly, quarterly, or annually). Failing to keep up can result in compliance issues and cash flow problems.
4. Employer Responsibilities
Beyond PAYG and super, it’s essential to ensure you’re adhering to industry Awards or enterprise agreements. This includes paying correct wages, keeping up with Fair Work requirements, and understanding leave entitlements, allowances, and termination payments.
The ATO requires businesses to retain records for at least five years from when they were prepared, obtained, or the transaction was completed – whichever is later. Records must clearly explain all transactions, be written in English (or easily translated), and be stored securely, whether physically or digitally.
Good record-keeping is more than a compliance task – it’s also your best defence in the event of an audit and a foundation for sound business decision-making.
A registered tax agent is legally authorised to give tax advice, prepare and lodge returns, and represent you in dealings with the ATO. At Attune Advisory, our team is fully registered with the ATO and the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB), giving you peace of mind that your business is in experienced, qualified hands.
We also stay across legislative updates, industry trends, and ATO rulings so you don’t have to.
How can I stay on top of my tax obligations?
Using software like Xero or MYOB, tracking lodgement deadlines, and engaging an Attune Advisory advisor are all key to staying ahead.
What happens if I don’t meet my obligations?
You could face penalties, interest charges, and increased scrutiny from the ATO. In some cases, non-compliance can trigger a full audit.
What tax rate applies to small businesses?
As of 2023, small companies with turnover under $50 million are taxed at 25%. Larger companies pay 30%. Sole traders and partnerships are taxed at individual rates.
Does Australia tax overseas income?
Yes. The ATO uses international data-sharing agreements to track overseas assets and income. Australia also has tax treaties with over 40 countries to avoid double taxation.
Tax doesn’t have to be a burden. With tailored, strategic advice from the Attune Advisory team – and the right systems in place – you can meet your obligations, reduce your risk, and uncover real opportunities for growth and savings.
Give the team a call on 1300 866 113 or send us an email to start the conversation – you’ll be glad you did.
In today’s fast-paced and competitive business environment, financial leadership isn’t just valuable—it’s vital. But for many startups and small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), hiring a full-time Chief Financial Officer isn’t always feasible. That’s where a Virtual CFO (vCFO) comes in.
A Virtual CFO offers all the expertise and strategic insight of a traditional CFO, but on a flexible, part-time, or outsourced basis—making high-level financial guidance accessible to growing businesses without the overhead of a full-time salary.
At Attune Advisory, we work closely with business owners to bridge this gap, helping them gain clarity, direction, and confidence in their financial decisions via our tailored approach to offering a vCFO service.
A Virtual CFO is an outsourced financial expert who provides high-level strategic financial management, just like an in-house CFO. From cash flow forecasting to risk management and strategic planning, they act as a key advisor to business leaders—without being on payroll full-time.
Unlike traditional bookkeeping or compliance-based accounting, Virtual CFO services are forward-looking. The focus is on growth, performance, and strategic insight, not just historical data.
Many business owners are passionate about their product or service but find themselves overwhelmed by financial complexity as they scale. A Virtual CFO helps answer big questions like:
Whether your business is in a growth phase, facing financial challenges, or simply preparing for the future, a vCFO provides tailored insights to help you make confident, informed decisions.
1. Cost-Effective Expertise
Hiring a full-time CFO is expensive—often well beyond the reach of SMEs. A Virtual CFO provides access to top-tier financial acumen at a fraction of the cost.
2. Improved Cash Flow & Financial Clarity
A vCFO can help optimise cash flow, forecast future trends, and provide visibility into your financial health.
3. Strategic Business Planning
From budgeting and KPI tracking to funding strategies and investor presentations, your vCFO supports business growth with real data and insight.
4. Operational Efficiency
A good Virtual CFO will spot inefficiencies, identify risks, and streamline processes—saving you both time and money.
5. Objective, Experienced Advice
Unlike internal staff, a vCFO provides an external, unbiased perspective grounded in experience across a range of industries and business models.
At Attune Advisory, our Virtual CFO service is more than just a financial plug-in. We take the time to understand your business, your goals, and your challenges.
Our vCFO offering includes:
• Monthly or quarterly financial reporting
• Cash flow and budget forecasting
• Financial strategy sessions
• Risk analysis and mitigation planning
• Tax efficiency strategies
• Support with funding and capital raising
Our approach is personal, proactive, and always tailored to your business—because one-size-fits-all doesn’t work when it comes to growth.
If you're ready to make smarter financial decisions, boost profitability, and drive sustainable growth—without committing to a full-time hire—our Virtual CFO services could be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Contact the Attune Advisory team today to learn how we can help lead your financial strategy forward – call us on 1300 866 113 or contact us via email here. You’ll be glad you did.
For Australians planning their financial future, Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs) continue to offer an attractive pathway to greater control and flexibility over retirement savings. But as the superannuation landscape evolves—with industry funds increasing their market share—many are asking: is an SMSF still the right choice?
At Attune Advisory, we believe SMSFs can play a powerful role in building long-term wealth—if managed with the right strategy, structure, and support … our specialty.
Recent industry data reveals a subtle shift: SMSFs now account for 27.9% of total superannuation assets, down from 30%, while industry super funds have risen from 38.2% to 40%. While this trend reflects the growing scale and marketing power of industry funds, it doesn’t diminish the unique advantages SMSFs can provide for the right investor.
1. Investment Control and Flexibility
SMSFs give you the power to choose where and how your retirement savings are invested. From shares and managed funds to property and even collectibles (within strict guidelines), you have far more scope to tailor your strategy.
2. Cost Efficiency (at Scale)
For those with higher super balances, SMSFs can offer cost advantages, especially as fixed administration fees become more efficient at scale compared to percentage-based fees in retail or industry funds.
3. Estate and Tax Planning
SMSFs can offer advanced tax strategies and greater flexibility in estate planning—an important consideration for individuals looking to protect wealth across generations.
With control comes responsibility. Managing an SMSF is not for everyone, and there are key considerations:
At Attune Advisory, we work closely with clients who want to explore the benefits of an SMSF while staying compliant and confident.
Our support includes:
• Feasibility assessments to determine if an SMSF is right for your circumstances
• Assistance with setup, including trust deed creation, registration, and investment strategy design
• Ongoing accounting, compliance, and audit coordination
• Strategic advice to help maximise retirement outcomes
We bring a personal, proactive, and expert approach to SMSF management—removing complexity while helping you remain in control.
Choosing an SMSF is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It depends on your financial goals, risk appetite, and capacity to manage or outsource the administrative load. But with the right advice and a clear plan, SMSFs can be a powerful vehicle for wealth creation, flexibility, and financial empowerment in retirement.
If you're thinking about setting up an SMSF—or simply want to explore whether your current strategy is working as hard as it could be—we’re here to help.
Talk to Attune Advisory today to make confident, informed decisions about your retirement future. Call the team today on 1300 866 113 or contact us via email here. You’ll be glad you did.
In it’s most recent meeting (May), the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) made headlines again by announcing a 25 basis point reduction to the official cash rate, bringing it down to 3.85%. This marks the second cut this year, following sustained efforts to support households and stimulate economic growth amid global uncertainty.
While this move comes as a welcome relief to many, especially mortgage holders, the broader implications of a lower cash rate are far-reaching and nuanced. In this article, we break down some of what this change means for individuals, businesses, and investors—and how you can stay financially agile in a changing landscape.
The RBA’s decision was largely driven by softening economic indicators, including slower household spending, modest wage growth, and mounting international pressures such as geopolitical instability and sluggish global trade.
According to RBA Governor Michele Bullock, the cut aims to relieve pressure on households facing rising living costs while supporting business investment and employment. Treasurer Jim Chalmers acknowledged the move, highlighting the balance needed between economic stimulus and long-term fiscal responsibility.
Mortgage Relief:
The most immediate benefit of a lower cash rate is reduced borrowing costs. Homeowners on variable-rate mortgages are likely to see their monthly repayments drop (if their lenders pass on the cut quickly), offering breathing room in an otherwise tight cost-of-living environment. For those with fixed-term loans nearing renewal, this could be an opportunity to refinance at a more favourable rate.
Savers Take a Hit:
On the flip side, savers are likely to feel the pinch. Major banks have already responded by lowering interest rates on term deposits and high-interest savings accounts. For retirees and individuals relying on interest income, this can erode returns and may necessitate a rethink of investment strategies.
A lower cash rate can be a double-edged sword for small business owners.
Easier Access to Finance:
Lower borrowing costs mean more accessible finance for business expansion, equipment upgrades, or cash flow management. This could be particularly valuable in sectors still recovering from supply chain disruptions or reduced consumer demand.
A Watchful Eye on Consumer Confidence:
However, economic uncertainty and reduced consumer spending could offset these benefits. Business owners will need to carefully balance optimism with caution, particularly in industries vulnerable to discretionary spending fluctuations.
Interest rate movements tend to ripple across investment markets. While lower rates often boost equity markets in the short term, they also reduce returns from cash holdings and fixed income products.
Property Investors:
Lower interest rates can drive increased demand in the property market, potentially pushing up prices in some regions. However, investors should remain mindful of broader market volatility and shifting tenant demand.
Stock Market Investors:
The ASX responded positively to the rate cut, with key indices trending upward following the announcement. Growth-oriented sectors such as tech and consumer discretionary often benefit from lower borrowing costs—but volatility remains a key consideration amid global economic headwinds.
In light of the changing economic climate, here are a few strategies individuals and businesses can consider:
1. Review Loans and Debt Structures:
Now is an opportune time to assess your lending arrangements. Consider refinancing options or consolidating debts to take advantage of lower interest rates, but don’t be too hasty – get good advice from your broker as interest rates may yet change again.
2. Diversify Investments:
Relying heavily on savings accounts or term deposits may no longer yield competitive returns. Explore diversified portfolios that balance risk and potential growth, especially if you have a longer investment horizon.
3. Plan Proactively:
Whether you’re a household managing a mortgage or a business eyeing growth, having a clear, forward-looking financial plan is essential. Consider engaging with a financial advisor or Virtual CFO to assess your current position and outline a path forward.
The RBA’s latest cash rate cut reflects a delicate balancing act—stimulating economic growth while navigating global uncertainty. While there are clear benefits for borrowers and some opportunities for investors, the implications for savers and small businesses highlight the importance of strategic financial planning.
At Attune Advisory, we’re here to help you make informed financial decisions in a constantly evolving environment. Whether you're looking to restructure debt, invest smartly, or future-proof your business, our team is ready to work alongside you to build the right strategy.
So, if you’d like to discuss what tailored financial advice might mean for you or your business, get in touch with Attune Advisory today on 1300 866 113 or contact us via email here. You’ll be glad you did.
When it comes to growing and protecting your wealth, the structure you choose for each investment can be just as important as the investment itself.
Whether you’re acquiring your first rental property, building a share portfolio, or diversifying into private businesses, the right entity will optimise your tax position and safeguard your assets. In this brief overview, we’ll explore:
1. Why structure matters
2. Top vehicles for property investors
3. How trusts can work in your favour
4. Tax-efficient strategies for high net worth individuals
Imagine two investors earning the same income from identical shares—but one pays significantly less tax. The difference? How their holdings are owned and reported. A well chosen structure can:
It isn’t a one size fits all solution. The best approach depends on your goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon, so speaking with the Attune team for an approach tailored to you is incredibly important, but for now, let’s unpack the leading options in brief.
a) Direct Ownership (Individual or Joint)
• Pros: Simplicity in setup, direct control.
• Cons: Taxed at your marginal rate; exposure to personal liabilities.
b) Company Structure
• Pros: Flat 25–30% corporate rate; limited liability.
• Cons: No access to franking credits for individuals; dividend distribution may trigger further tax.
c) Unit Trust or Property Trust
• Pros: Income streamed to beneficiaries on their marginal rates; flexible profit distribution.
• Cons: Trust setup and compliance costs; trustee duties and record keeping.
Tip: Many savvy property investors use a company as trust trustee. This hybrid approach leverages corporate tax rates for undistributed profits, while flowing income to beneficiaries when distributions make sense.
Trusts are among the most powerful tools for both tax planning and asset protection:
• Discretionary (Family) Trusts
Allow trustees to allocate income and capital gains among family beneficiaries each year—optimising tax outcomes by utilising lower rate tax brackets.
• Unit Trusts
Beneficiaries hold fixed units. Ideal for joint ventures and partnership style investments where each party’s stake is proportionate to their contribution.
Key considerations:
• Choose your trustee carefully—often a company with robust governance.
• Prepare a clear trust deed outlining powers, beneficiaries, and distribution rules.
• Keep meticulous minutes of distribution decisions to satisfy the ATO.
High net worth (HNW) clients typically juggle multiple asset classes—each with unique tax implications. Here are a few advanced strategies:
1. Private Ancillary Funds (PAFs)
Philanthropy can deliver a 30% tax deduction on contributions and align with social-impact goals.
2. Family Investment Companies (FICs)
A corporate entity wholly owned by family members—retains profits at corporate tax rates and facilitates generational wealth transfer with dividend imputation benefits.
3. Spousal Loans
Lending funds at the ATO benchmark rate from a higher income spouse to a lower income spouse can shift investment income—and tax liability—down to the lower rate bracket.
4. Negative Gearing and Depreciation
Strategically pairing interest expenses with high depreciation assets (e.g., commercial fit outs, fixtures) to maximise deductible losses in rental properties.
Every investor’s situation is unique, and the “best” structure will hinge on your:
💡 Pro tip: Review your structures annually to ensure they remain fit for purpose as tax laws and personal circumstances evolve.
At Attune Advisory, we work closely with you to craft bespoke structures that not only unlock tax efficiencies but also stand the test of time. Ready to explore your optimal investment framework?
Book a Strategy Session today and let’s map out a structure aligned with your objectives.
Contact the Attune Advisory team on 1300 866 113 or send us an email to find a time that works for you and we can show you what’s possible with the right structures in place.
As the end of the financial year (EOFY) approaches, many Australian business owners find themselves in one of two camps: calmly reviewing their financials—or frantically trying to piece everything together. With the right preparation and guidance, it can actually be a powerful opportunity to optimise your business finances and plan for a successful year ahead.
We’ve created an EOFY checklist to help you stay on track, avoid costly mistakes, and maximise your tax-time benefits.
Before anything else, make sure your bookkeeping is up to date. This includes:
• Bank and credit card reconciliations
• Receipts and invoices (preferably digitised)
• Accurate profit and loss statements
• Updated balance sheets
Having your records in order is the first step to making smart financial decisions—and it’s essential for a smooth experience with your accountant.
Now’s the time to review all possible deductions:
• Business-related expenses like utilities, rent, and vehicle use
• Prepaid expenses (like insurance or subscriptions)
• Superannuation contributions paid before June 30
• Depreciation on assets or equipment
Pro tip: Speak with your advisor about instant asset write-offs and small business concessions that could reduce your tax bill this year.
Make sure:
• Employee payroll is up to date
• Superannuation contributions are paid on time (before June 30 to claim a deduction)
• You’ve finalised Single Touch Payroll (STP) reporting for the financial year
EOFY is a great time to review your payroll processes and ensure compliance with current ATO requirements.
If you have debts that are unlikely to be recovered or inventory that can’t be sold, writing them off before EOFY may allow you to claim them as deductions. Be sure to document your decisions clearly for tax records.
EOFY isn’t just about closing the books—it’s a chance to refresh your business strategy. Use this time to:
• Set goals for the new financial year
• Review your budget and cash flow forecasts
• Consider any structural changes or tax planning opportunities
A proactive conversation with your accountant now can unlock benefits that carry through all year.
At Attune Advisory, we help businesses across Australia navigate EOFY with confidence. Our team of experienced accountants and business advisors can help you:
• Understand your financial position
• Identify opportunities for savings
• Stay compliant and in control
Don’t wait until June 30 to start preparing. Let us help you tune into what matters most—your business growth.
Book your EOFY review via email or call the team on 1300 866 113 and let’s make sure you’re all set.
Between public holidays, shifting workloads and EOFY preparations, the April–June quarter can feel like a stop-start sprint. For many business owners, it's a time of disruption — a mix of long weekends and looming deadlines that can leave cash flow, operations and planning in a state of flux.
This seasonal unpredictability makes financial agility more important than ever. So how can you stay proactive, flexible, and in control when business momentum becomes inconsistent?
Here are some practical strategies to keep your business financially agile through a choppy quarter:
A clear, up-to-date view of your cash position is essential — especially when revenue may dip due to reduced trading days or delayed payments.
If you haven't reviewed your cash flow forecast recently, now's the time. Adjust for:
Mapping out your expected inflows and outflows for the next 90 days helps you avoid surprises and make more confident decisions.
Stop-start periods can skew your monthly budget. You might be overspending in one area (e.g., staffing) and underspending in another (e.g., marketing) without realising it.
Review your budget alongside actual performance to identify any discrepancies. Look at:
Regular check-ins — even mid-month — can help you course-correct early and avoid larger issues down the track.
Rather than fighting against the patchy nature of the quarter, try building your activity around it. Consider:
By anticipating disruptions and weaving them into your planning, you create breathing room — without losing momentum.
Lean into tools that help you stay across your numbers, even when you're not at your desk. Cloud accounting software, cash flow apps, and real-time dashboards can give you instant visibility over your finances.
This lets you:
Financial agility often comes down to having the right data at your fingertips — and acting on it. The Attune team can assist with putting some tech in place to help you with your automation and assessments, so reach out to the team if you’re considering upgrading how you manage your numbers.
The end of financial year creeps up quickly, especially when you’re juggling interruptions. Now is the time to:
A little preparation now can smooth the transition into the new financial year — and help you end this quarter on a strong note.
At Attune Advisory, we work with business owners year-round to build financial strategies that flex with the seasons. Whether you're looking to stabilise cash flow, refine your structure, or plan for EOFY, we’re here to help.
Let’s make this quarter count — even with a few stop signs along the way. Give the team a call on 1300 866 113 or send us an email to start the conversation – you’ll be glad you did.
With the third quarter of our current financial year right behind us, and the end of the financial year now approaching fast, it's crucial for everyone to be aware of key tax lodgement deadlines to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties.
One significant date to adhere to is May 15, which serves as the lodgement due date for many taxpayers. It’s fast approaching and may take some time to prepare your lodgement, so to start with, let’s get familiar with the details (below). Then, as soon as you’re able, we suggest starting the preparation process in the lead up to May 15 – the Attune Advisory team are here to help …
The May 15 deadline applies to individuals and trusts that:
• Have no outstanding prior year tax returns as of June 30, 2024.
• Are not classified as large or medium trusts (those with annual total income exceeding $10 million).
• Do not have a tax liability of $20,000 or more based on their latest return.
• Are not new registrants.
For a comprehensive list of lodgement due dates based on specific circumstances, refer to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) guidelines.
You’ll find this page on the ATO website to be useful for more information: Individuals and trusts outline.
The ATO offers a concessional extension for tax returns due on May 15, allowing individuals, partnerships, and trusts to lodge by June 5, 2025, without incurring penalties, provided any payment due is also made by this date.
The payment due date for tax liabilities depends on when the return is lodged:
• Up to February 12, 2025: Payment is due by March 21, 2025.
• Between February 13 and March 12, 2025: Payment is due by April 21, 2025.
• From March 13, 2025, onwards: Payment is due by June 5, 2025.
These staggered payment arrangements ensure taxpayers have adequate time to meet their obligations.
Failing to lodge your tax return by the due date can result in penalties and interest charges. Moreover, timely lodgement ensures you remain compliant with tax laws and can assist in better financial planning for the upcoming year.
With the May 15 deadline fast approaching, now is the time to prepare all relevant documentation and engage Attune Advisory to begin the lodgement process. Let's get ahead of tax deadlines and make sure you remain compliant and in the best tax position possible for the next financial year. Give the team a call on 1300 866 113 or send us an email to start the conversation – you’ll be glad you did.
The Australian Government has handed down the 2025-26 Federal Budget, packed with measures aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures, stimulating business activity, and reinforcing tax compliance. While headline announcements like personal income tax cuts and energy bill relief make waves, there are also critical updates that could impact individuals, businesses, and investors.
With that in mind, we’ve broken it down to help you more quickly find what you need to know…
From 1 July 2026, all taxpayers will benefit from a two-stage tax cut, reducing the tax rate for income between $18,201 and $45,000 from:
• 16% to 15% (2026-27 financial year)
• 15% to 14% (from 2027-28 onwards)
For the average Australian, this translates to a tax saving of up to $268 in 2026-27, increasing to $536 from 2027-28 onwards.
While not as substantial as previous tax reform efforts, these adjustments provide modest relief—particularly for low and middle-income earners—in an economy where wages are expected to grow slowly.
From 1 July 2024, the Government is raising the Medicare levy low-income threshold, ensuring that those earning below the threshold are exempt from paying the levy.
This change is expected to cost $648 million over five years and will provide tax relief for Australians struggling with cost-of-living increases.
To combat rising utility costs, the Government has extended energy rebates for all households and small businesses:
• $150 will be credited to household energy bills in quarterly instalments from 1 July to 31 December 2025.
• Small businesses will also receive similar relief.
This initiative will cost $1.8 billion over two years and aims to cushion energy price volatility.
Two-Year Ban on Foreign Buyers of Established Homes
From 1 April 2025, foreign and temporary residents—as well as foreign-owned companies—will be banned from purchasing existing homes. This measure seeks to prevent "land banking" and free up housing stock for local buyers.
Help to Buy Scheme Expansion
The Government’s Help to Buy scheme allows eligible Australians to co-purchase a home with the Government, reducing the required deposit and mortgage burden.
Key changes:
However, the program is not yet open for applications, with details still pending. We’ll keep you updated as the scheme opens up.
From 2027, non-compete clauses will be banned for employees earning under the Fair Work Act’s high-income threshold (currently $175,000 per year).
Additionally, new laws will prohibit anti-competitive agreements between businesses that:
These changes reflect broader efforts to increase job mobility, boost wages, and promote fair competition.
Beer Excise Tax Frozen for Two Years
The excise tax on draught beer will be paused for two years from August 2025, keeping beer prices stable.
Higher Caps for Alcohol Producers
From 1 July 2026, the excise remission cap for breweries, distilleries, and winemakers will increase from $350,000 to $400,000 per year, providing tax relief to the alcohol industry.
Trade Tariffs on Russia & Belarus Extended
Australia will maintain an additional 35% tariff on Russian and Belarusian imports as a continued sanction measure.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has received $999 million in funding over four years to expand compliance programs, targeting:
These programs are expected to recover $3.2 billion in additional tax revenue, meaning increased scrutiny for businesses and high-income earners.
There’s never been a better time to have the Attune team on your side to ensure you remain compliant with all of your tax obligations – business and personal.
The Government is reducing reliance on external consultants, contractors, and labour hire, aiming to save $718 million by 2028-29.
While this aligns with broader efforts to streamline spending, it may have ripple effects on private sector firms that provide outsourced government services.
Slow Growth Ahead
The Australian economy is expected to grow by 2.25% in 2025-26, rising slightly to 2.5% in 2026-27.
Budget Deficit & Rising Debt
The underlying cash balance is forecast to be in deficit at -$42.1 billion for 2025-26, with national debt climbing to 21.5% of GDP by 2025-26, increasing to 23.1% by 2028-29.
Wages & Employment
• Wages are forecast to grow by 3% in 2025 and 3.25% in 2026.
• Unemployment is expected to peak at 4.25% in the coming years.
Inflation & Cost of Living
• Inflation is forecast to settle at 2.5% by mid-2025.
• Energy rebates and rent assistance have helped slow price growth.
Global Trade Risks
• Trade tensions between China, the U.S., and Australia remain a concern.
• New retaliatory tariffs could impact export sectors like agriculture & mining.
This Budget delivers a mix of cost-of-living relief, tax cuts, business reforms, and compliance crackdowns. While the measures offer some short-term financial relief, longer-term economic risks remain.
At Attune Advisory, we here to help you and your businesses navigate policy changes and optimise your financial strategies. Our approach is not only to help you remain compliant from a tax perspective, but plan for the future while assessing how other parts of the economy could affect you or your operations.
If you’d like to discuss how the Budget affects you specifically, get in touch with Attune Advisory today on 1300 866 113 or send us an email to start the conversation – you’ll be glad you did.
