Epoch News

With global fuel supply chains still under strain from conflict in the Middle East, many Australian businesses are feeling the impact through higher operating costs, delayed deliveries and pressure on cash flow.  To help stabilise affected sectors, Treasurer Jim...

The ATO has announced a significant update that will affect anyone using electric vehicles (EVs) or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) for work or fleet purposes, and where the vehicle is charged at the relevant individual’s home.  From 1 April 2026 (for FBT...

As tax time approaches, so does the annual spike in scam calls pretending to be from the ATO. These calls are becoming increasingly convincing and increasingly costly for those who get caught. The ATO has now launched a simple, powerful solution: the ‘verify call’...

The Better Targeted Superannuation Concessions measure (known as the Division 296 tax) is now law and takes effect from 1 July 2026. For those with large super balances, it’s important to understand what the new tax does, why it’s been introduced, and the practical...

As Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) lodgement season approaches, family businesses should carefully review the perks they provide to working directors and family members. A high-profile case involving luxury vehicles provided to three brothers who run a large business empire...

When selling a business—or even a slice of one—how you value the assets involved can have a major impact on the tax bill. A recent Full Federal Court decision, Kilgour v Commissioner of Taxation [2025] FCAFC 183, offers timely guidance on how “market value” is really...

The ATO has issued a Draft Taxation Determination TD 2026/D1, which examines how inherited family homes are treated for CGT purposes. Some industry commentators have dubbed it a “death tax by stealth”, but it is a bit more complex than this. The draft guidance focuses...

Running a business from home—whether as a sole trader, freelancer, or small operator, has many perks. But when it comes to selling your home and potentially saving on tax, recent ATO guidance serves as a reality check.  The ATO has provided its views on how home-based...

Running a successful business is hard work, and sometimes, despite best intentions, tax obligations slip. If the business is operated through a company structure, the ATO can issue a Director Penalty Notice (DPN), holding company directors personally liable for unpaid...

For many Australians, a holiday home does double duty. It's a place to escape with family and friends, and during the rest of the year, it's listed on Airbnb or Stayz to help cover the costs.  Until recently, many owners assumed they could claim most of the usual...