The Australian Government has proposed a ban on life insurers using predictive genetic test results to assess applications, aiming to prevent discrimination and improve access to cover. Here’s what the ban means for insurers and individuals. What Is Predictive Genetic Testing? Predictive genetic tests identify gene variants associated with heritable disorders that may develop later...Read More

The introduction of ‘payday super’ marks a significant shift in how superannuation guarantee (SG) payments will be managed in Australia. Here’s an overview of what’s changing and the implications for employers. What Is Payday Super? From 1 July 2026, employers will be required to pay SG contributions to employees’ super funds on the same day...Read More

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and its economic policies remain a hot topic in Australia, drawing significant political attention and public concern. Here’s a breakdown of the key issues shaping the conversation, from interest rates and inflation to a landmark payroll tax decision involving Uber. Interest Rates: Balancing Inflation and Economic Strain Political Pressure...Read More

If you’re 55 or older, downsizer contributions offer a valuable opportunity to enhance your superannuation using the proceeds from selling your home. Here’s how the rules work and why more women are using this strategy. What Are Downsizer Contributions? Downsizer contributions allow eligible individuals to contribute up to $300,000 from the sale of their home...Read More

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is intensifying its focus on investment properties and high-value lifestyle assets, using advanced data-matching programs to ensure tax compliance. Here’s what you need to know to stay on the right side of the law. Investment Properties: A Key Focus for the ATO Investment properties have long been under the microscope...Read More

The ATO is cracking down on business owners who take money or use company resources for their personal uses. With a blurry line between personal and working life for business owners, they often utilise company resources for their personal uses. Whilst there are tax laws preventing individuals from accessing profits or assets of the company...Read More

From 1 July 2024, the amount you can contribute will increase from $27,500 to $30,000 for concessional super contributions; $110,000 to $120,000 for non-concessional contributions. Growing Your Super Contribution caps are indexed to wages growth based on the December quarter average weekly ordinary times earnings (AWOTE) of the previous year. Indexation Impacts The Following Areas:...Read More

It is common for business owners to devote their money into a business to get it up and running until it can sustain and survive on its own. A recent case highlights the dangers of taking money out of a company without considering tax implications. Case Study – Private and Company Expense A taxpayer who...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

In the latest advisory from the ATO, Solomons Accountants & Advisers reminds you that simply labelling a worker as an independent contractor in an agreement doesn’t automatically classify them as such for tax and superannuation purposes. It’s important to understand the true nature of the working relationship to determine the correct classification. When a written...Read More