Blog
CGT and off-the-plan purchases
If you buy a property in an off-the-plan purchase, there are some important CGT issues to be aware of – especially in the context that an off-the-plan purchase may not actually settle until many months or even years after the initial contract is signed. The first thing to note is that assuming the off-the-plan purchase...
What to do if you exceed your super contribution caps
Superannuation is a great way to save for retirement, but the government sets strict limits on how much you can contribute each year. These limits are called contribution caps. If you go over them, you could face extra tax. But don’t panic – here’s what you need to know and the steps to take if...
Economic roundtable wash up
Thanks for all those great ideas – we’ll take it from here. That’s pretty much how last month’s economics/productivity roundtable wound up, with the government firmly in control of what tax policy measures might or might not be introduced down the track. Apart from consulting with the States on a model for imposing road user...
Wallace Partners September 2025 Newsletter
Access our Wallace Partners September 2025 Newsletter below: Wallace Partners 2025 September Newsletter
Taxing luck – Lotto, raffle wins and more
Major lotto, raffle and other gambling wins only come around rarely (or never, for most of us), and when they do, they don’t usually raise tax issues, at least not to begin with. Gambling winnings are not regarded by the Tax Office as assessable income as it considers gambling to be a luck-based recreational activity...
Stuck in the middle – How the sandwich generation can cope financially
Many Australians are finding themselves part of the “sandwich generation” – adults who are juggling the demands of raising their own children while also caring for ageing parents. It’s a tough spot to be in, emotionally and financially. Whether you’re still working and trying to build your own wealth, or you’ve recently retired and expected...
Tax deductibility of clothing
The tax deductibility of clothing is a topic that often confuses taxpayers, as the rules are specific and nuanced. However, the ATO sets clear guidelines on when clothing expenses can be claimed as tax deductions, and understanding these rules is essential for individuals and businesses seeking to maximise their tax benefits while remaining compliant. As...
What to expect from tax reform? Given past history, not very much, unfortunately
The Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, has convened a Productivity Roundtable for late August, with three main areas of focus – productivity, economic resilience and budget sustainability. He has sought ideas and proposals from stakeholders, which should be: in the national interest; fiscally responsible – ie, revenue positive or at least revenue neutral; and specific and practical....
Self-managed super funds: A suitable path to retirement control?
Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) are a key part of Australia’s superannuation system, offering control over retirement savings. As of March 2025, about 650,000 SMSFs manage $1 trillion in assets – a quarter of the $4.1 trillion superannuation pool. Let’s take a quick look at who uses SMSFs, why they’re chosen, costs and setup essentials for...
The great wealth transfer: Are you ready?
Over the next few decades, Australia is expected to witness one of the biggest intergenerational wealth transfers in history with between $3.5 trillion and $5 trillion changing hands as baby boomers pass on their wealth to children and grandchildren. If you’re expecting to inherit from your parents or grandparents, or you’re thinking about the legacy...
