Creating a more dynamic and resilient economy The Productivity Commission (PC) has been tasked by the Australian Government to conduct an inquiry into creating a more dynamic and resilient economy. The PC was asked to identify priority reforms and develop actionable recommendations. The PC has now released its interim report which presents some draft recommendations [...]
The one big, beautiful bill that may not be so beautiful for Aussies You may have seen the viral headline about a new U.S. tax bill called the One Big Beautiful Bill, but what does it mean for Australian investors, especially super funds and small businesses with US exposure? Turns out, it could mean a [...]
Trust funds: Are they still worth the effort? 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 [...]
Economic crossroads: US shrinks, China stimulates, Australia holds steady The US economy experienced a notable slowdown in the first quarter of 2025. The latest GDP data showed the economy contracted at an annual rate of -0.3%. Businesses stockpiling goods (which increased import volumes) ahead of the implementation of President Trump's shemozzle of a tariff policy [...]
Labor’s victory: Unpacking the promises and priorities As the Labor party settle back into their seats having secured a majority in the House of Representatives, we look at the campaign promises and the unfinished business from the last term. Individuals Personal income tax cuts: the 2025-26 federal budget introduced a modest income tax cut for [...]
What’s ahead in 2025? The last few years have been a rollercoaster ride of instability. 2025 holds hope, but not a guarantee, of greater stability and certainty. We explore some of the key changes and challenges. An election Welcome to political advertising slipping into your social media, voicemail, and television viewing - most likely with [...]
The key influences of 2024 Uncertainty has reigned over the last few years, but can we expect more consistency as we head into 2024? We explore some of the key issues and influences. Inflation and labour supply RBA Governor Michelle Bullock stated, “Inflation is past its peak and heading in the right direction, but it [...]
The shape of Australia’s future What will the Australian community look like in 40 years? We look at the key takeaways from the Intergenerational Report. The 2023 Intergenerational Report (IGR) is a crystal ball insight into what we can expect Australian society to look like in 40 years and the needs of the community as [...]
The Billion Dollar TikTok Scandal $1.7 billion paid out in fraudulent refunds, another $2.7bn in fraudulent claims stopped, around 56,000 alleged perpetrators and over 100 arrests to date. How did the TikTok tax scandal get out of control? It was promoted as a victimless hack that delivered tens of thousands of dollars into your bank [...]
COVID downgraded but not gone National Cabinet agreed to end the mandatory isolation requirements for COVID-19 effective from 14 October 2022. Each state and territory has, or will, implement the end of the isolation rules. The Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment, the payment to workers who have lost income they needed to self isolate or care [...]