ATO’s data matching programs

The Australian Tax Office (ATO) has sophisticated data matching programs in place to ensure individuals and businesses are complying with their obligations and to uphold the integrity of the tax system for the community at large. The Tax Office uses data matching to pre-fill tax returns, ensure people and businesses are lodging tax returns and…

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Using the margin scheme for property sales

Those selling property as part of a business sale may be eligible for the margin scheme. The margin scheme is a way of working out the GST you must pay on the property that you are selling as part of your business. The scheme is only applicable if the sale of a property is taxable.…

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Changes to GST on low-value imported goods

Australian goods and services tax (GST) will be implemented on sales of low-value goods imported into Australia by consumers as of 1 July 2018. According to the ATO, business will have to register for GST, change GST on sales of low-value imported goods and lodge returns if they meet the $75,000 AUD registration threshold. These…

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ATO to focus on cash-only businesses

To protect honest, compliant Australian businesses, the Australian Taxation Office has placed a strong emphasis on targeting the cash and hidden economy. The ATO is visiting businesses that deal predominantly in cash, with a focus on those that: Fail to meet super or employer obligations, and that fail to register for GST or lodge activity…

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Assistance for new business owners

The ATO has established the ‘Business Assistance Program’ to help new business owners understand their tax obligations associated with running a business. Small businesses that have recently registered for an ABN, registered for GST or likely to register for GST in the near future and have a turnover of less than $2 million a year…

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Selling your home and CGT

When it comes time to sell your home, you may be wondering if you will need to pay capital gains tax (CGT). Generally, if you live in the home you are selling you will not have to pay CGT under the main residence exemption. The ATO considers a dwelling as your main residence if: –…

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Protecting honest businesses

In its effort to facilitate a fair business environment, the ATO has offered continued support for honest businesses. With an estimated $40 billion lost to the hidden economy, the need for strong diligence and continued governance over Australian businesses is essential. The Black Economy Taskforce that was established in May 2017 and various trends have…

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Reporting SMSF changes

Self-managed super fund trustees must notify the Australian Tax Office (ATO) if there are changes to their SMSF. Trustees must provide written notice within 28 days if there are changes to: the name of the fund the address of the fund details of the contact person the membership of the fund the trustees of the…

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