Tax

In a measure to reduce emissions and reduce Australia's carbon footprint, the Federal Government's proposed Treasury Laws Amendment (Electric Car Discount) Bill 2022 has passed Parliament, with Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemptions for electric cars now law.

As originally announced in this year's March Federal Budget by the then-Morrison Government, new reforms surrounding Employee Share Schemes (ESS) available to employees have now received Royal Assent, with revised legislation to take effect from 1 October 2022.

As of 1 July 2022, new legislation has now taken effect which details the Australian Tax Office’s compliance approach to the allocation of profits or income from Professional Firms as assessable income to the ‘Individual Professional Practitioner’ (IPP).

As house prices continue to remain high in a competitive market, for those with a significant portion of land, the attraction of subdividing the family block may appeal as a source to increase wealth, build a property portfolio, or downsize for retirement.

After two years of significant spending by the Government amid the COVID-19 pandemic in providing financial assistance to businesses and individuals, the Government will now be looking at ways to boost revenue and recoup the money spent to support the economy through the pandemic. With increased funding being provided to the ATO, we can expect to see a rise in the level of review and audit activity in areas the ATO believe mistakes are being made by taxpayers.

As Australia re-opens its international borders in a return to ‘normal’ life following forced closures throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, many expatriates may be considering this as an ideal time to return home to family and friends – resettling life back Down Under.

For operators within the Building & Construction industry, maintaining regulatory compliance and financial reporting is essential in complying with obligations set by the Queensland Building & Construction Commission, ensuring continuation of QBCC license and the ability to complete and undertake new projects & work.

For businesses managing a vehicle fleet, or using fuel for business activities, the Fuel Tax Credits scheme can be an excellent route for operators to claim full or partial credits for the fuel tax (excise or customs duty) that's included in the price of fuel.

Following the successful roll-out of Single Touch Payroll reporting in 2019, the Australian Tax Office has introduced an expansion of the program (as outlined in the 2019-20 Federal Budget), with ‘Phase Two’ due to commence from 1 January 2022.