Discretionary trusts, often referred to as family trusts, have been a popular structure for Australian families and businesses for many decades. They are commonly used to operate family businesses, hold investments and assist with succession planning. Their flexibility, together with asset protection and estate planning benefits, has made them an attractive option for many
If you're thinking about purchasing or leasing a vehicle for your business in the new financial year, it's worth understanding the updated car thresholds that apply from 1 July 2026. While these limits may seem technical, they can have a practical impact on the amount you can claim for tax depreciation deductions, the GST
The High Court has recently handed down an important decision that will impact many private business groups using discretionary trusts and corporate beneficiaries. In Commissioner of Taxation v Bendel [2026] HCA 18 (10 June 2026), the Court rejected the ATO’s long-standing view that an unpaid distribution (also known as an unpaid present entitlement or
With the start of the 2026–27 financial year, SMSF trustees should take a proactive approach to ensure funds remain compliant and well positioned. Below is a concise checklist of the key legislative changes, compliance deadlines and practical steps trustees should prioritise. Review Transfer Balance Cap and Pension Planning Indexation of the general TBC: From
Since the Federal Treasurer handed down the 2026-27 Federal Budget on 12 May 2026 there has been a significant amount of commentary on some of the more controversial proposals, including the decision to replace the CGT discount with an indexation system and impose a 30% minimum tax rate on discretionary trusts. Since our latest
A recent decision of the Administrative Review Tribunal (Goldenville Family Trust v Commissioner of Taxation [2025]) highlights the importance of documentation and evidence when it comes to tax planning and the consequences of not getting this right. The case involved a family trust which generated significant amounts of income. For the 2015, 2016 and
For decades, trust structures have been a cornerstone of the Australian tax and financial system, prized for their asset protection and flexibility when it comes to income distributions. However, with regulatory changes and mounting administrative complexity the shine has been wearing off lately, prompting some businesses and investors to rethink their use. Is there
“Succession planning, and the tax risks associated with it, is our number one focus in 2025. In recent years we’ve observed an increase in reorganisations that appear to be connected to succession planning.” ATO Private Wealth Deputy Commissioner Louise Clarke The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) thinks that wealthy babyboomer Australians, particularly those with successful
Yesterday, Tas Demos & Gede Barone, BDH Leaders Principals, presented a webinar on Tax Planning. For those who were unable to make it, or for those who would like to review the information, above are the links to the webinar recording and slides. The material and contents provided in this webinar are informative in nature only.
Late last month, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) released a package of new guidance material that directly targets how trusts distribute income. Many family groups will pay higher taxes (now and potentially retrospectively) as a result of the ATO’s more aggressive approach. Family trust beneficiaries at risk The tax legislation contains an integrity rule, section
