The ATO has issued a warning to trustees of SMSFs about sloppy valuation practices. ATO data analysis has revealed that over 16,500 self managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) have reported assets as having the same value for three consecutive years. With many of these assets residential or commercial Australian property, you can forgive the ATO for...Read More

The problem when the evidence doesn’t match what the taxpayer tells the ATO – A recent case before the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) highlights the importance of ensuring that the evidence supports the tax position you are taking. In this case, a piece of heritage farmland was initially bought for $1.6 million and later sold...Read More

The allure of property investment, coupled with the appealing 15% tax rate during the SMSF accumulation phase and the potential for tax-free retirement, greatly motivates many SMSF trustees to consider property development for substantial returns. This article delves into the advantages, challenges, and common issues associated with this investment approach. An SMSF can invest in...Read More

As previously announced, from 1 July 2023, access to the Government’s Home Guarantee Scheme will be expanded to joint applications from “friends, siblings, and other family members” and to those who have not owned a home for at least 10 years. Specifics & breakdown First Home Guarantee Guarantees part of a first homeowner’s home loan...Read More

According to CoreLogic, Australian house prices increased +22.1%[1] in 2021, led by Australia’s largest city of Sydney (+25.3%). It is likely that there have been a few culprits for this stellar performance, including record low interest rates, healthy household balance sheets, and perhaps a new desire to re-invest in the home as some workers contemplate an...Read More