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Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are essential drivers of Australia’s economy, creating jobs and fostering innovation. However, operating within such a dynamic landscape comes with its own set of challenges, particularly when it comes to regulatory compliance. With limited resources and time, many SMEs find it difficult to stay on top of their legal obligations while managing day-to-day operations.
At Attune Advisory, we understand the complexities SMEs face in navigating these regulations so we thought we’d explore effective strategies to help your business stay compliant and avoid potential pitfalls as you move and grow.
The first step in managing compliance is to be fully aware of the laws and regulations that govern your industry. Each business faces its own unique set of obligations, from tax compliance and employment laws to industry-specific regulations.
Take the time to research the laws that apply to your business operations. Seek advice from your Attune team as a start, then where you may need to, you can engage a consultant who can help you identify the regulations relevant to your SME. Staying informed is key to avoiding compliance breaches.
A compliance checklist is a practical tool that can help SMEs track and meet their legal obligations. Your checklist should include all key areas, such as reporting to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), complying with Australian Tax Office (ATO) requirements, and adhering to employment laws. Once again, our team can help you build your checklist off the back of our discussions about your business and it’s compliance requirements.
As with just about anything, breaking down compliance tasks into specific steps, assigning responsibilities, and setting deadlines ensures that you cover all bases. Having this checklist in place will also help you monitor progress and prevent anything from slipping through the cracks.
Regulations are constantly evolving, and staying up to date is crucial for keeping your business compliant. You can subscribe to relevant regulatory newsletters or updates from the government, attend industry events, or join business associations that provide updates on relevant changes yourself. If you’re already speaking with an Attune Advisory team member, we’ll ensure your business is on top of these, but it’s always worth being educated yourself so you understand how regulatory changes may affect your business.
The tip here is to ensure your SME stays in the loop regarding any new laws or updates to existing regulations. It’s always better to act proactively rather than face penalties for non-compliance later.
No one expects a business owner to be an expert in every area of their operations. When it comes to complex regulations, seeking professional advice can save you both time and money. If you’re looking for advice outside of the financial and tax arena, Legal advisers are trained to guide you through compliance requirements and help you implement the necessary systems – we can refer you if you require.
At Attune Advisory, we offer a range of services to help SMEs navigate the regulatory landscape. From tax advice to payroll and other compliance support, we can help ensure that your business stays on track.
Compliance isn’t just the responsibility of business owners. Your employees play a key role in ensuring your business adheres to relevant laws and regulations. Providing regular training and resources on compliance requirements helps them understand their responsibilities.
By fostering a culture of compliance, you minimise risks and ensure your business operates smoothly. Employees who are informed about regulations are more likely to identify and resolve issues before they become major problems. This is especially true with larger teams.
Another strategy SMEs can adopt is conducting regular compliance audits. These audits are a way of reviewing your business’s policies and procedures to ensure they align with current laws and regulations. Payroll Auditing is a good example.
You can perform internal audits or bring in external experts to provide an objective review. Either way, an audit can help identify areas for improvement, ensuring that your business remains compliant and operates efficiently.
In today’s digital age, technology can make regulatory compliance much easier to manage. There are a variety of software tools available that can help you track changes in regulations, automate reporting, and monitor employee adherence to policies.
Investing in the right technology allows you to streamline compliance processes, saving both time and effort. These tools not only help ensure that your business stays compliant but also reduce the risk of human error.
While dealing with regulatory compliance can be daunting, taking proactive steps ensures that your business remains in good standing. By understanding your obligations, seeking professional advice, and leveraging technology, your SME can stay on top of compliance without overwhelming your resources.
Whether you need help with financial planning or navigating complex legal requirements, the Attune Advisory team is ready to guide you through the process. Contact us today on 1300 866 113 to discuss how we can support your business’s compliance efforts and long-term success.
Running a business comes with many moving parts, and as a business owner, your time is precious. That’s why adopting the right tools is essential to streamline operations and boost productivity. Whether you’re handling finances, managing projects, or communicating with your team, the right technology can make a world of difference.
It’s easy to get caught up in doing things the hard way, but embracing smart tools can help you focus on what matters most—growing your business. At Attune Advisory, part of what we do is to help businesses make the most of these resources to ensure operations run smoothly. Here's a guide to essential tools every business should consider.
The most efficient businesses are always looking for ways to optimise their processes. Leveraging new tools can help you spend less time on administrative tasks and more time on revenue-generating activities. Here are some key tools that every business should have:
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software: Keep track of your customers, leads, and interactions. A good CRM will help you manage sales pipelines, customer service, and marketing efforts all in one place.
• Invoicing Software: Say goodbye to manual invoicing. Automating this process with the right software not only saves time but also reduces the chances of errors and late payments.
• Project Management Systems: Collaboration is key to running successful projects. Tools like Asana or Trello allow teams to keep tasks organised, set deadlines, and monitor progress seamlessly.
• Banking and Accounting Tools: Streamlined accounting systems like Xero or MYOB make managing finances easier, offering automated reconciliation and real-time financial insights.
• Messaging and Collaboration Apps: Effective communication is crucial for remote and in-office teams alike. Use messaging platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams to keep the lines of communication open.
• Point of Sale (POS) Systems: For retail or service-based businesses, having a modern POS system is essential. These systems help track sales, inventory, and even customer preferences.
• Website and E-commerce Platforms: Your online presence is often the first touchpoint for potential customers. Ensure your website is user-friendly and integrates well with your e-commerce tools if you're selling products online.
Just because a tool worked for you in the past doesn’t mean it’s still the best option today. Technology evolves rapidly, and so should your business tools. It's important to periodically assess whether your current systems are meeting your needs and whether there are better, more cost-effective options available.
At Attune Advisory, we recommend regularly reviewing the tools you use to ensure they align with your business goals and budget. If something isn’t working as well as it could, it’s worth exploring alternatives. New systems may offer additional features that can solve more problems and enhance efficiency.
Don’t overlook the feedback of the people using these tools daily—your team. They are often the first to notice when something isn’t working or when a better option might be available. Actively encourage open discussions about the tools your business uses and areas for improvement.
Empowering your employees to share their insights ensures that your business operates at peak efficiency. Plus, it fosters a culture of collaboration where everyone feels heard and valued.
Investing in the right tools can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. Whether it’s automating invoices or managing projects more effectively, optimising your processes through technology is a smart move for any business owner.
Ready to take your business operations to the next level? Get in touch with the Attune team today on 1300 866 113 to learn how we can assist you in making smart business decisions.
In today's evolving business landscape, companies are increasingly judged not only by their profitability but also by their commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. ESG reporting provides a comprehensive framework to evaluate a company’s sustainability initiatives and its overall impact on society.
It covers aspects such as environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and governance practices, allowing investors, customers, and stakeholders to make more informed decisions regarding their business relationships.
The concept of corporate responsibility began to gain traction in the mid-20th century, setting the stage for what we now know as ESG reporting. A pivotal moment came in 2004 with the UN Global Compact’s “Who Cares Wins” report, which coined the term “ESG” and highlighted the link between robust ESG practices and financial success. The report called on companies and investors to integrate sustainable practices into their operations, thus sparking widespread interest in ESG considerations.
Since then, ESG reporting has become a mainstream practice. The United Nations' Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), launched in 2006, established a global framework for integrating ESG factors into investment decisions. The PRI introduced six guiding principles that encourage investors and organisations to consider ESG criteria in their financial strategies:
1. Integrate ESG issues into investment analysis and decision-making.
2. Be proactive owners and incorporate ESG issues into ownership policies and practices.
3. Seek appropriate disclosure on ESG issues by the entities in which investments are made.
4. Promote the acceptance and implementation of ESG principles across the investment industry.
5. Work collaboratively to enhance the effectiveness of implementing the principles.
6. Report on activities and progress towards the implementation of ESG principles.
The increasing emphasis on ESG factors, bolstered by global initiatives like the Paris Agreement in 2016, has made ESG reporting an integral part of business strategy and operations, globally.
As ESG reporting becomes more critical in the corporate world, accounting firms, including ourselves at Attune Advisory play a crucial role in helping businesses navigate these complexities. By leveraging our expertise, we can offer substantial benefits to companies looking to implement or enhance their ESG reporting.
1. Enhancing Transparency and Accountability
Accurate ESG reporting, validated by your Attune team, provides stakeholders with transparent insights into a company's environmental, social, and governance practices. This transparency builds trust and demonstrates a commitment to responsible business conduct.
2. Meeting Regulatory Requirements
With ESG disclosure regulations becoming more stringent, such as the new IFRS S1 and IFRS S2 standards, businesses need expert guidance to ensure compliance. Attune Advisory can help you navigate these requirements, reducing the risk of non-compliance and potential penalties.
3. Attracting Investment and Capital
Companies that excel in ESG practices often attract ESG-focused investors who are interested in sustainable growth. Verified ESG reports can increase access to capital by appealing to a broader base of socially conscious investors.
If you’re in a space where raising capital is an option for you, speak with us about how ESG reporting can bolster your pitch.
4. Driving Strategic Decision-Making
ESG reporting is not just about compliance; it also serves as a strategic tool. By analysing ESG data, your business can identify both risks and opportunities related to sustainability and governance, enabling you to make more informed decisions and optimise long-term strategies.
5. Boosting Reputation and Brand Value
ESG reporting can significantly enhance a company’s reputation and brand value. When an accounting firm like Attune Advisory verifies strong ESG performance, it demonstrates a commitment to ethical practices, attracting customers, partners, and employees who value sustainability.
6. Promoting Sustainable Growth
By aligning business strategies with sustainability goals, ESG reporting fosters a culture of environmental and social well-being. We can then measure a company's progress towards these goals, helping to ensure long-term, sustainable growth.
Although ESG reporting is becoming more prevalent, there is still ongoing debate about standardisation. The current landscape is fragmented with multiple frameworks, making it challenging for businesses to achieve consistency. However, initiatives like the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) are working to create a global standard for ESG reporting, which would simplify the process.
Moreover, technological advancements are set to revolutionise ESG reporting. Cloud-based platforms enable efficient collection, management, and analysis of ESG data, while blockchain technology can enhance data security and transparency. These innovations will likely play a crucial role in overcoming current challenges and shaping the future of ESG reporting.
With the right guidance and support, your business can leverage ESG reporting to drive growth, attract investment, and enhance your reputation. If you’d like more information on how ESG reporting can benefit your business, contact the team at Attune Advisory today via 1300 866 113 or email us here – your future self will thank you for it.
When it comes to managing your business finances, having a proactive approach can lead to significant savings. One of the best ways to achieve this is by engaging in open discussions with us, your accountant – we love this kind of thing at Attune Advisory.
To help you engage in a way that’s meaningful for you and your financial goals, here are four essential questions to ask your accountant to ensure you're on the right path to financial efficiency and savings.
Understanding the tax deductions available to your business can make a substantial difference in your bottom line. Your Attune Advisory accountant can help you navigate the complexities of tax laws and identify deductions that apply specifically to your business. This not only ensures compliance but also reduces your overall tax liability.
We pride ourselves on setting our clients up with the right tax planning strategy, and with that in hand you can take advantage of various deductions to offset some of your business expenses throughout the year. Your Attune tax accountant can provide insights into the following areas:
Reviewing your current accounting practices is another critical step to ensure your business isn't overspending or missing opportunities to maximise resources. One of our purposes is to help identify inefficient processes or unnecessary expenses that can be streamlined, leading to significant cost savings. By regularly auditing your accounting systems, you can enhance financial management and boost your bottom line.
Regularly reviewing key financial reports is vital for maintaining a clear picture of your business’s financial health. Understanding these reports allows you to identify areas for improvement, optimise cash flow, reduce expenses, and increase profitability. Your Attune accountant can help you interpret these reports and provide actionable insights to improve financial performance.
Key reports to consider include:
By leveraging the insights gained from these reports, we can help develop strategies to enhance financial performance and achieve sustainable growth.
Tax season can be daunting, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be. The Attune team is here to assist in creating a tax plan tailored to your business needs, track income and expenses throughout the year, and ensure that all necessary documentation is in order for filing. And, there’s never a bad time to start.
We will also keep you informed about important deadlines and any changes in tax regulations that could impact your business.
It’s also important that we assist with adjusting your tax planning strategies to comply with new regulations, avoiding penalties and taking advantage of any new tax incentives or opportunities.
Open communication with your accountant is essential for aligning financial strategies with your business goals and we encourage it. The more your Attune Advisory accountant understands about your business's unique needs and objectives, the better equipped we are to provide valuable guidance and solutions.
Prioritise ongoing collaboration with your accountant, asking critical questions about tax planning, financial reporting, cash flow management, and more. This approach helps you stay agile, make informed decisions, and ultimately improve your bottom line.
At Attune Advisory, we offer a range of tailored accounting and tax services, from tax planning and advisory to cash flow management and financial reporting. Our team of qualified professionals is dedicated to helping businesses optimise their financial performance and achieve long-term success. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help your business thrive.
Call the team on 1300 866 113 or email us today to start the conversation, you’ll be happy you did.
In today’s fast-paced business environment, keeping your eye on the big picture while managing the daily grind can be challenging. From financial management to customer service, the demands on your time can prevent you from focusing on what truly matters – growing your business. This is where Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) can play a crucial role.
By outsourcing your accounting and financial processes, you can free up valuable time and resources, allowing you to concentrate on your core business activities. Attune Advisory offers expert BPO services tailored to your business needs, helping you maximise financial opportunities and streamline operations so let’s unpack some benefits and where the real power lies ...
BPO is not just about cost savings—it's about enhancing your business efficiency and gaining access to specialised expertise. Here’s how BPO can benefit your business:
1. Focus on Core Business Activities Outsourcing non-core functions like accounting allows you to redirect your focus to the areas of your business that drive growth and profitability. With the day-to-day financial tasks handled by experts, you can spend more time on strategy, innovation, and customer service.
2. Access to Expertise Attune Advisory provides a professional team with in-depth knowledge and experience in financial management. By partnering with us, you gain access to expertise that might be too costly or time-consuming to develop in-house. This ensures that your financial processes are managed efficiently and in compliance with Australian regulations.
3. Scalability and Flexibility As your business grows, your needs will change. BPO services are highly scalable, allowing you to adjust the level of support you receive as required. Whether you need more hands during tax season or additional expertise when entering a new market, BPO offers the flexibility to adapt to your business's evolving needs.
4. Cost Efficiency Outsourcing can be a cost-effective solution, reducing the need for full-time in-house staff and expensive infrastructure. With fixed-fee services from Attune Advisory, you can plan your budget more effectively without the worry of unexpected costs.
At Attune Advisory, we live and breathe cloud accounting solutions. The integration of cloud technology into your business processes can transform the way you operate. Here’s why cloud solutions are a game-changer:
1. Real-Time Information Cloud-based accounting systems provide you with real-time access to your financial data. This means you can make informed decisions quickly, with up-to-date information at your fingertips.
2. Improved Data Accuracy Cloud solutions reduce the risk of human error by automating data entry and integrating various business processes. This leads to more accurate financial records and better decision-making.
3. Cost Savings Moving to the cloud can significantly reduce hardware costs and IT maintenance expenses. Additionally, cloud services often come with a subscription-based model, allowing you to pay only for what you use.
Cloud tech stacks are the future of business – there’s little question… A cloud tech stack is a collection of cloud-based software that works together to streamline your business operations. At Attune Advisory, we can help you build a customised cloud tech stack tailored to your specific business needs.
For example, if you’re already using Xero for accounting, there are hundreds of apps that can integrate with Xero to automate processes and reduce the need for double data entry. This integration can cover various aspects of your business, including:
With a fully customisable cloud tech stack, all your business information can be available to you anywhere, at any time. This level of accessibility and integration not only increases efficiency but also future-proofs your business against technological changes.
To recap, Business Process Outsourcing, combined with cloud-based solutions, is a powerful strategy to enhance your business's efficiency and scalability. By partnering with Attune Advisory, you can focus on what truly matters – growing your business and securing your financial future as you do it – we’ll handle the rest. Contact us via 1300 866 113 or email us today to learn more about how our BPO services can benefit your business.
Finding the right tax accountant for your business is not just about searching “tax accountants near me”; it requires careful consideration. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, and your decision should align with your specific tax needs and business preferences. However, some key factors can guide you in making an informed choice.
Here are some essential considerations to help you select the right tax accountant for your business.
While many tax accountants offer a broad range of services, what often sets them apart is their specific expertise. Whether you need help with lodging your end-of-year tax return or advice on restructuring your business to minimise tax liability, your chosen accountant should have a proven track record in these areas, especially with businesses similar in size to yours.
When evaluating potential accountants, consider whether they have successfully supported companies larger than yours. This experience indicates that they possess the capacity to meet your business’s needs as it grows. We’re completely open to discussing how your needs align with our experience, so don’t hesitate to chat to the Attune team to ensure the right fit is with us.
Effective communication is crucial in any business relationship. It’s important to know that when you have urgent questions about your tax position or changes in legislation, your accountant will respond promptly. Your ability to make informed financial decisions depends on having reliable communication channels.
If you’re considering a larger firm, ensure that you’ll have a dedicated point of contact for your tax queries. Personalised service is vital, as no one likes dealing with automated systems or overseas call centres when they need timely assistance.
Thanks to digital communication and cloud computing, businesses can now access accounting services from anywhere. However, this convenience can come with drawbacks, such as a lack of understanding of local tax laws or time zone differences that complicate scheduling.
Face-to-face interaction still plays a crucial role in building strong working relationships. If you prefer in-person meetings, consider choosing a tax accountant who is locally based and can attend meetings at your office.
The software your accountant uses can significantly impact your working relationship. While secure and up-to-date software is essential for managing financial data, it should also be user-friendly. You’ll want to ensure that you’re comfortable using the tools provided or that your accountant can assist with their integration into your business.
Opt for an accountant who uses collaborative software that is easy for you to navigate, ensuring smooth communication and data exchange.
You can also assess an accounting firm is by reading reviews from their clients. While firms provide an overview of their services, customer reviews offer insight into the actual experience of working with them. These testimonials can reveal how well the firm handles challenges and whether they meet client expectations.
Pay attention to how clients describe their relationship with the firm, including how long they’ve partnered and which accountants they’ve worked with. This information can indicate the strength of the firm’s client relationships. Also, note if clients mention specific services that are relevant to your business, as this can confirm the firm’s expertise in those areas.
Above all, your tax accountant should have the expertise to meet your specific business needs. If your business is involved in R&D, for example, ensure that your accountant can help you access relevant tax incentives. If you’re expanding your workforce, you’ll need an accountant who can manage complex payroll functions.
It’s also beneficial if your chosen accountant is part of a firm that offers other relevant services. While your tax accountant may not have commercial acumen for day-to-day business guidance, they should be able to connect you with colleagues who do, such as a commercial team providing CFO advisory services.
At Attune Advisory, our tax team understands the critical role that tax planning plays in our clients’ financial success. We specialise in delivering high-level tax advice across various industries, helping businesses of all sizes navigate complex tax issues and optimise their tax position.
If you’re looking for a tax accountant who can truly add value to your business, contact us today on 1300 866 113 to see how our team of experts can assist you.
Staying on top of your tax obligations is crucial for every business. Missing key lodgement and payment deadlines set by the Australian Tax Office (ATO) can result in penalties, interest charges, and unnecessary stress. To help you stay organised, here are the essential dates for August and September 2024.
And remember, with Attune Advisory on your side, you won’t need to keep a calendar. Our tax advisory team are always on the pulse and will request information from you when it’s required so you’re never behind on lodgements or payments.
• Quarter 4 (April–June) Activity Statements
– Final Lodgement Date: Ensure your electronically lodged activity statements are completed by this date.
– Action Items:
– Refer to Lodging your activity statements online for eligibility on extended lodgement dates.
– Finalise all your PAYG instalments before lodging your tax return to ensure accurate credits in your income tax assessment.
• PAYG Withholding Payment Summary Annual Report
– Final Lodgement Date: Summarise all employee payments and withholdings from salary, wages, and other payments.
– Important Notes:
– These amounts should already be reported at labels W1 and W2 on your previous financial year activity statements.
• Employee Share Scheme (ESS) Annual Report
– Final Lodgement Date: Ensure that your ESS annual report is lodged by this date.
• July Monthly Activity Statements
– Final Lodgement Date: Ensure all lodgement and payments are completed by this date.
• GST Reporting
– Final Lodgement Date: Eligible monthly GST reporters must elect to report GST annually by this date.
• Taxable Payments Annual Report
– Final Lodgement Date: This report is due for businesses in the following industries:
– Building and construction
– Government entities
– Cleaning services
– Courier or road freight services
– Information technology services
– Security, investigation, or surveillance services
• Superannuation Guarantee Charge Statement
– Final Lodgement Date: Lodge and pay for quarter 4 (1 April–30 June) if super contributions were not paid on time.
– Key Points:
– You can offset late contributions against the super guarantee charge for the quarter.
– Note that the super guarantee charge is non-deductible for income tax purposes.
• Final Lodgement Date: Ensure that your August monthly business activity statement is lodged and paid by this date.
• PAYG Withholding Payment Summary Annual Report
– Final Lodgement Date: Lodge this report if prepared by a BAS agent or tax agent (excluding large withholders with annual withholdings over $1 million).
• Annual TFN Withholding Report 2024
– Final Lodgement Date: Required if a trustee of a closely held trust has withheld amounts from payments to beneficiaries.
Staying informed and timely with these key dates will help ensure your business remains compliant and avoids unnecessary penalties. So, for tailored advice and assistance with your tax obligations, get in touch with the Attune Advisory team on 1300 866 113 or send us a message to start the conversation – we're here to keep your business on track.
Hosting the Olympic Games is often seen as a significant opportunity for countries and cities to showcase their capabilities on a global stage. Despite the rising costs associated with hosting the event, the potential economic benefits cannot be overlooked.
There’s stakeholders of every kind when it comes to an city hosting an Olympic Games – from local advertisers, businesses their families all the way through to the state and nation hosting. So with that in mind, we thought we’d take a look at some of the impacts, benefits and concepts behind what an Olympic games means for the host.
The costs of hosting the Olympics have indeed skyrocketed over the years. The 2024 Paris Olympics is expected to be a critical test of whether recent reforms have made hosting a more viable financial option. Historically, the Olympics have evolved significantly since the first modern games in 1896. In the latter half of the 20th century, the costs associated with hosting and the revenue generated grew rapidly. This growth sparked considerable controversy over the financial burden placed on host countries.
A growing number of economists argue that the economic benefits of hosting the Olympics are often exaggerated. Critics highlight that many host countries end up with substantial debts and ongoing maintenance liabilities once the games have left their locality. These financial challenges have led to calls for reforms in the Olympic bidding and selection process. Suggestions include incentivising realistic budget planning, increasing transparency, and promoting sustainable investments that serve the public interest long after the Games have concluded.
Despite these criticisms, supporters of the Olympics contend that hosting the Games can significantly enhance a city’s global profile and drive economic benefits through tourism and infrastructure investments. The infrastructure developed for the Games often includes improvements in transportation, housing, and sports facilities, which can have long-term benefits for the host city. For instance, the 2000 Sydney Olympics led to substantial investments in the city’s infrastructure, which continue to benefit residents and businesses today.
This isn’t just in the form of sporting facilities, rather to make room for an event of scale, host cities like Sydney build serious improvements across the board to allow for attendees and athletes that create lasting impact for the city as a whole.
One of the primary economic benefits of hosting the Olympics is the short and long-term boosts to tourism. The influx of athletes, officials, and spectators from around the world can generate significant revenue for local businesses. Additionally, the global media coverage of the event can raise the profile of the host city, attracting future tourists and investors that would have otherwise not seen value in a locaiton. Again, with Sydney as an example, we saw a notable increase in tourism following the 2000 Olympics, with many visitors drawn by the city's enhanced global reputation – we knew it was a great place before-hand of course!
The long-term economic impact of hosting the Olympics is another critical consideration. While the initial investment can be substantial, the benefits can extend far beyond the closing ceremony. Improved infrastructure, increased tourism, and enhanced global visibility can contribute to sustained economic growth. Moreover, the skills and experience gained by local workers and businesses involved in organising and hosting the Games can have lasting positive effects on the local economy, making room for new business and opportunities not otherwise seen.
While the costs can be high, the potential economic benefits, including tourism, infrastructure development, and global exposure, are significant. By carefully planning and managing the financial aspects of hosting, cities can maximise these benefits and ensure a positive economic legacy. With the 2024 Paris Olympics underway, it will be interesting to see how recent reforms influence the economic outcomes for the host city and provide valuable lessons for future hosts, including Brisbane in 2032. We’ll be keeping a close eye!
Stay tuned to our socials and website for more.
Creating a Self-Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF) while a major financial decision, offer you unparalleled control and flexibility over your retirement savings. While it opens doors to customised investment strategies and personalised financial planning, it also entails significant responsibilities and strict regulatory adherence – which is where we come in to help.
An SMSF grants you direct management of your superannuation investments, allowing for investment strategies tailored to your specific financial objectives. However, with this control comes the obligation to comply with stringent legal and regulatory requirements.
Prior to setting up an SMSF, it’s crucial to have a solid grasp on the responsibilities and legal obligations involved. Educate yourself on investment strategies, risks, and regulations related to SMSFs to make well-informed decisions.
If you’re just starting out, book a chat with one of our SMSF specialists and we can give you the complete run down while assessing how an SMSF might work best for you.
An SMSF can have up to four members, all of whom must serve as trustees or directors of a corporate trustee. Individual trustees must be over 18, while corporate trustees must be a company with all members as directors.
Engage a legal professional to draft a trust deed, a fundamental document that outlines how the SMSF will be managed and operated, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
If you need guidance on who to speak to from a legal perspective, we can refer you to one of our experienced partners, so reach out for a referral if you require one.
Ensure that all trustees sign a trustee declaration within 21 days of assuming their role, acknowledging their understanding of their duties and obligations. By the time you’re appointing trustees, they should be aware of what’s involved, but once again, we can provide you the details to educate and inform your trustees if required.
To operate your SMSF legally, obtain a Tax File Number (TFN) and an Australian Business Number (ABN). You’ll need to register your SMSF with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to comply with tax regulations.
Again, this is something we can assist with as part of the set up process.
Formulate a detailed investment strategy that aligns with your financial goals. Consider factors such as diversification, risk tolerance, and liquidity to create a balanced and secure investment portfolio.
Building the best strategy for your unique situation is another key area we’re perfectly suited to assist with. Our experience means we can tailor our advice to you and help guide you with your strategy building.
Set up a bank account in the name of the SMSF to handle contributions, rollovers, and investments, ensuring a clear separation between your personal and SMSF finances.
This will operate solely for the purpose of your SMSF.
If members have existing superannuation accounts, roll these funds into the SMSF to consolidate and streamline your retirement savings.
Implement robust record-keeping systems to comply with reporting requirements. Maintain financial statements, member statements, and annual returns to ensure your SMSF meets regulatory standards.
There’s software to help with this – we can offer advice on the best methods to have easy to manage record-keeping as part of your SMSF.
Evaluate insurance options for SMSF members. Trustees are responsible for considering insurance needs to protect the fund and its members – this is a must.
Regularly review the performance of your SMSF and ensure it complies with current laws and regulations. We can be part of assisting you to submit the annual return to the ATO to maintain compliance and of course, through the life of your SMSF, the Attune team can help ensure operations undertaken within your SMSF are compliant.
Engage SMSF professionals – start with the Attune Advisory team and engage your existing financial advisers, and legal experts (if you have them), to ensure your SMSF is compliant and managed effectively.
The right, tailored professional advice is invaluable in navigating the complexities of SMSF management.
Attune Advisory can help you take control of your retirement savings with a Self Managed Super Fund. So, if you’re looking for assistance with setting up or managing your SMSF, Attune Advisory's experts offer a range of advisory and support services. Whether you aim to manage your retirement investments better, maximise tax advantages, or stay compliant with ever-changing regulations, our experienced team will guide you through the entire process.
Reach out to us via email or call the Attune team on 1300 866 113 to start the conversation. You’ll be glad you did.
Through our decades of experience in the financial services industry, we have assisted countless small business owners to move from early stages of starting the journey, into business maturity.
And as new businesses kick off and grow, we thought we’d compile a list of essential accounting tips for small businesses so you can maintain order and promote growth in your own business. Of course, we can help you create the right strategy for your business in all areas we discuss below, so keep that in mind as you read…
Our top tip is to delegate your bookkeeping. Spending countless hours on bookkeeping can be inefficient – especially when you bring other skills to the business.
Instead, follow the adage, "Work on your business, not in your business." Effective bookkeeping involves more than reliability; it includes automating functions to free up your time for business growth.
Choosing the correct business structure can significantly impact your tax obligations and asset protection. You can opt for:
• Company
• Trust
• Sole trader
• Partnership
Your business structure influences succession planning, attracting investors, and scaling your business. The Attune team will discuss your current situation and your goals before giving you assistance with your business structure – it’s all about tailoring our advice to give you the best results.
In the 21st century, cloud software is indispensable for accounting. Utilise cloud-based filing systems and tools like Xero for tracking expenses and mileage. This transition not only reduces physical paperwork but also streamlines your financial management.
Once again, you don’t have to try and set this all up alone – speak with the Attune team for a little help and advice that can get you going in no time.
For businesses dealing with stock, inventory management systems are crucial. They automate stock tracking, prevent overordering, and help maintain optimal cash flow. Advanced systems can even notify you when stock levels are low.
Be done with complex spreadsheets, software is the way to go.
A competent accountant is invaluable – that’s where we come in. Among many other things, we can assist you with:
• Setting up the best business structure
• Overseeing tax compliance
• Managing cash flow and strategic planning
Attune’s holistic business advisory and accounting service can guide you through business growth and set you up for success.
Utilise software like Xero and Spotlight Reporting to forecast cash flows and budgets. Setting goals and benchmarking performance helps you anticipate trends and identify areas for improvement.
Do this regularly to make sure your goals and plans suit the current state of your business.
Third-party HR or payroll assistance ensures compliance with award rates and regulations. They also help manage employee leave entitlements and overtime obligations. Automating payroll functions with Xero can streamline these processes, but it’s incredibly important you have the right inputs to get the right output.
Make a point of speaking to a HR lawyer about your payroll if you have staff on multiple pay rates and awards.
Avoid double handling of paperwork by integrating your point of sale, accounting, and filing systems. Using software like Xero provides real-time data on your business performance, allowing for timely issue resolution.
There’s other options out there that might suit your point of sale best, so do your research!
A digital dashboard in your accounting software (we like Xero) collates all your business numbers for easy tracking. Understanding your financials helps you identify your breakeven point and manage cash flow effectively. Maintaining a separate account for tax and GST is also advisable so nothing gets tangled up.
Franchises have unique financial challenges, including higher setup costs and complex payroll needs. Specialist advice can assist with valuation, planning, and accounting for franchises, ensuring your business runs smoothly from day one.
It doesn’t matter if it’s a food chain or sporting goods store, Attune’s specialist advice will ensure you’re doing everything you’re obligated to and of course, getting the best results you can from the structure!
If you’re looking for help starting or growing your business, speak with the Attune Advisory team today. We’re here to offer strategic, tailored advice that will keep you on the road to success. Call the team on 1300 866 113 or send us an email to start the conversation.
