Changes announced to ATO withholding amounts

Following an announcement in July, the Australian Government recently increased the 32.5 per cent tax threshold from $37,001 – $80,000 to $37,001 – $87,000. The new PAYG withholding rates will apply to individual taxpayers who earn more than $80,000 from 1 October 2016. The Australian Tax Office provides a range of tables to assist employers…

Growing your business

It can be difficult for small businesses to grow their customer base beyond the realms of the local community. Generating new business, however, is fundamental to business success, no matter how challenging it may seem. Here are three ideas small businesses can do to help keep their local customer base strong, while at the same…

SMSF investment in a private company or business

Self-managed super funds (SMSFs) are allowed to invest a private company or business provided the business is operated for the sole purpose of providing retirement benefits for fund members and it is allowed under the trust deed. SMSF trustees must take into account the sole purpose test when determining whether purchasing a private company or…

Home-based work expenses

The Australian Tax Office allows Australians who work at or from their home to claim a deduction for the additional expenses they incur from running their business. Generally speaking, the deductible expenses that can be claimed are divided into two categories; occupancy expenses and running expenses. Occupancy expenses: relate to ‘the place of business’, i.e.…

Managing customer complaints

Customer complaints are an inevitable part of running a business. Managing customer complaints helps to retain existing customers and improve overall customer service. It is crucial to deal with complaints in an appropriate manner as poorly handled complaints can see customers withdraw their business and encourage others to do so too. Here are four tips…