Insights

Payday Super: What the Proposed Changes Mean for You

Superannuation payments may be set to undergo a significant change. The Australian Labor Government’s proposed "payday super" reforms would require employers to pay superannuation contributions within seven calendar days of each payday. Draft laws have been released for public consultation, and the changeshttps are expected to take effect from 1...

Nicholas Falzon

Director

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

Key Tax Differences Explained Between Sole Traders and Companies

If you are starting a business, you may be deciding whether to operate as a sole trader or to establish a company. Alternatively, you might already be working as a sole trader and considering transitioning to a company structure. Tax considerations are a crucial factor in determining which business model...

Nicholas Falzon

Director

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

Short-Term Rentals: What You Need to Know About Tax Obligations

In today’s sharing economy, platforms such as Airbnb have made it easier than ever to generate additional income by renting out a spare room or your entire home. However, many Australians are still unaware of the tax obligations that come with short-term rental arrangements. If you rent out part or...

Nicholas Falzon

Director

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

Claim Tax Deductions for Work-Related Study and Training

Nicholas Falzon

Director

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

PKF “Break it down” — Trusts

What is a Trust? A trust is NOT a separate legal entity; it is a relationship. It does not pay taxes (however, DOES require lodgement of a separate income tax return) nor can it hold title over any assets. It is a vehicle in which assets are held by a...

Stacie Shaw

Partner

Newcastle, Sydney

Insights

PKF “Break it down” — Superannuation

What is Superannuation? Superannuation is cash set aside over your lifetime to assist in funding your retirement. It generally cannot be accessed until you reach an eligible age, however hardship provisions may allow early access. What are Superannuation Funds? There are two types – public offer (e.g. industry funds) and...

Stacie Shaw

Partner

Newcastle, Sydney

Insights

PKF “Break it down” — Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG)

What is PAYG? Pay-As-You-Go requires tax payments as income is earned (not just on lodgement of an income tax return); imposed as Withholding and Instalments. PAYGW is withheld by the payer and they remit it to the ATO (e.g. employers remit on behalf of employees; banks remit on behalf of...

Stacie Shaw

Partner

Newcastle, Sydney

Insights

PKF “Break it down” — Fringe Benefits Tax

What is Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT)? FBT is a tax that ‘catches’ benefits provided to employees that don’t have tax withheld from them the way wages normally would. Why was FBT imposed by the ATO? Employees got ‘cute’ about saying to their employer: “Rather than pay me wages, which you...

Stacie Shaw

Partner

Newcastle, Sydney

Insights

PKF “Break it down” — Division 7a

What is Division 7A (Div7a)? Div7a is legislation introduced by the ATO to stop business owners drawing cash out of their companies without paying tax on it. Why was Div7a introduced by the ATO? Business owners were drawing cash out of their business as a ‘loan’ (with no real intention...

Stacie Shaw

Partner

Newcastle, Sydney

Insights

PKF “Break it down” — Dividends/franking account

What is a Dividend? A dividend is the payment of profits by a company (or limited partnership) to a shareholder. Why are dividends “franked”? The current company tax rate is 30% (with lower rates for some eligible smaller companies). A company will generally have already paid tax on some or...

Stacie Shaw

Partner

Newcastle, Sydney

Insights

澳洲CRS（共同申报准则）最新数据重磅发布：信息交换与合规风险解析

CRS早已不仅是一个监管制度，而是一场全球税收治理格局的深刻变革。

Ryan Lu

Partner

Melbourne

Insights

Essential insights for Multinational Enterprises

In December 2024, the ATO introduced Draft Practical Compliance Guideline PCG 2024/D3, which outlines the compliance approach for restructures of financing arrangements under the new thin capitalisation and debt deduction creation rules. This article explores the workings of these rules and their implications for MNEs' intercompany dealings. Third Party Debt...

Becky Nguyen

Partner

Melbourne

Updates

PKF Perth become an official partner of Claremont Football Club

We are proud to announce that PKF Perth has become an official partner of the Claremont Football Club. This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting the local community and grassroots organisations.

2 contributors

Perth

Insights

ATO overhauls local file reporting: key changes explained

On 23 December 2024, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) introduced a new local file schema and finalised instructions for reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2024, marking significant changes for the 2025 income year. What's new? The ATO's new local file schema aims to gather more detailed and...

Becky Nguyen

Partner

Melbourne

Insights

Coalition budget reply 2025

In their 2025 Budget reply speech, opposition leader Peter Dutton outlined several key measures aimed at addressing Australia's economic challenges and setting the Coalition's agenda ahead of the May 3 federal election.

David Pring

Partner

Newcastle

Insights

Shake It Up Australia Foundation: Leading the charge for Parkinson’s research in Australia

April 11th marks World Parkinson’s Day, a moment to reflect, raise awareness, and rally support for those affected by Parkinson’s disease.

38 people are diagnosed with Parkinson's everyday in Australia, and so to commemorate the day, the PKF Perspective Podcast hosted a special conversation with Vicki Miller, CEO of the Shake It Up Australia Foundation; a not-for-profit organisation laser-focused on funding Australian Parkinson’s research.

Emma Hansen

Head of Marketing

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

The value of a Business Advisor: More than just numbers

In the world of business, entrepreneurs often find themselves navigating challenges that extend far beyond financial statements and budgets. While many perceive business advisors as purely technical consultants focused on numbers and growth strategies, the reality is far more nuanced. For an experienced business advisor, the role is fundamentally about...

Jackie Marriott

Partner

Newcastle, Sydney

Insights

Pulse April 2025 — MD Welcome

We are now well into 2025 and it’s been an exciting and dynamic start to the year for us. From major office transformations to impactful partnerships and inspiring events, we are building momentum for what promises to be another outstanding year.

Bob Bell

Managing Director

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

New legislation stopping the deductibility of General Interest and Shortfall Interest Charge in Australia

They say death and taxes are inevitable, but at least historically you used to be able to claim a deduction on the latter’s interest charges. In this regard, the Federal Government has decided to tighten the rules. General Interest Charge (GIC) and Shortfall Interest Charge (SIC) incurred after 1 July...

Garry Mathoda

Director

Sydney

Insights

Reflecting on the incredible 2025 PKF Australia Business Advisory Conference in Newcastle

Newcastle set the stage for a conference that blended learning, collaboration, and connection – delivering insights that will tangibly influence our Real Life.

Angela Lenehan

Senior Manager

Sydney

Insights

Take 5 with Alex Honner

Q. Do you have a career highlight so far? Definitely my secondment to PKF Littlejohn in London in 2024. I worked with their Technology Change and Innovation team for the year, and gained invaluable experience building different dashboards, automated flows and apps to meet the firm’s needs. Overall it was...

Alex Honner

Senior Manager

Insights

New laws criminalising wage underpayments

Ensuring employees receive their rightful wages is a fundamental aspect of fair employment practices. In line with this commitment, the Australian government has introduced new laws that criminalise the deliberate underpayment of wages, commonly referred to as 'wage theft.' These legislative changes carry significant implications for businesses, making compliance with...

2 contributors

Sydney

Insights

What the proposed non-compete ban means for you | The 2025 Federal Budget

The Australian Government has announced plans to introduce legislation that will effectively ban non-compete clauses for workers earning under the high-income threshold of the Fair Work Act, currently set at $175,000. This move is part of a broader effort to increase competition in the labour market and drive economic growth....

Georgett Coleman

Partner

Brisbane

Insights

Is your business ready for sustainability reporting?

Mandatory climate reporting began in early 2025, Australian businesses must act now to understand their reporting obligations and prepare accordingly. Whether you're a Group 1 company required to report immediately or a Group 2 or 3 business preparing for compliance over the next few years, understanding your current position, identifying...

2 contributors

Perth, Brisbane

Insights

Prawn or oyster anyone? Another year of successful Aussie BBQ’s

The Aussie BBQ isn’t just about the excellent F&B and Aussie rock playlist – it’s about strengthening relationships, sharing stories, and kicking off the year with the people we value in our network.

Tony Doyle

Chief Operating Officer

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

PKF Sydney and Newcastle celebrates third year as official financial services partner of the nib Newcastle Knights

Celebrating three years as the official financial services partner of the nib Newcastle Knights, PKF is proud to continue supporting local sports and community growth through this enduring partnership.

Clayton Hickey

Partner

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

Congratulations to our graduates of Thrive and Lead and Dare to Aspire!

Newcastle set the stage for a conference that blended learning, collaboration, and connection – delivering insights that will tangibly influence our Real Life.

Steve Meyn

Chairman

Australia

Insights

PKF Sydney and Newcastle announces exciting office refurbishment

This exciting office refurbishment at PKF Sydney and Newcastle is not just about upgrading our space – it’s about creating a collaborative, inspiring environment that enhances both our team’s productivity and our clients’ experiences.

Andrew Beattie

Director

Newcastle, Sydney, Port Stephens

Insights

Investing in ATO compliance – The 2025 Federal Budget

The 2025 Federal Budget has allocated nearly $1 billion towards strengthening tax avoidance and compliance measures. A significant portion of this funding will support the Tax Avoidance Taskforce, which is dedicated to ensuring that Australia’s largest taxpayers, including multinational corporations, contribute their fair share. The remainder has been committed to...

Anthony Russo Battagliolo

Partner

Perth

Insights

2025 – 26澳大利亚联邦预算：在减债、生活成本纾困与经济增长之间寻求平衡

2025-26澳大利亚联邦预算：在减债、生活成本纾困与经济增长之间寻求平衡

2 contributors

Melbourne

Insights

End of financial year superannuation checklist

As the end of the financial year approaches, it's important to review your superannuation strategies and ensure you are maximising the benefits.

Here’s a quick checklist to help you navigate this crucial period:

2 contributors

Perth

Insights

Sumday and PKF Sydney announces partnership

This partnership brings together PKF’s advisory expertise with Sumday’s cutting-edge carbon accounting technology—empowering businesses to track, measure, and report emissions with confidence.

Madina Radinovich

Partner

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

Avoiding tax complexity for companies expanding offshore

By carefully managing the timing of a taxable presence, Australian
companies can expand offshore while keeping income tax obligations in
Australia – maximising franking credits and minimising tax complexity.

David Pring

Partner

Newcastle

Insights

Increased ATO and auditor focus on SMSF property valuations

With increased scrutiny on SMSF property valuations, trustees
must ensure valuations are based on objective, supportable data
and meet updated guidelines to avoid audit complications.

Daniel Clements

Partner

Newcastle, Sydney

Insights

AI in accounting systems

AI is transforming accounting systems! From simplifying tasks like bank
reconciliation to generating insights for better decision-making, tools like
Xero’s AI and JAX are enhancing efficiency. The future is here!

Andrew Pullen

Director, PKF Digital

New Zealand

Insights

Forensic data analytics for a global not-for-profit organisation

PKF’s forensic data analytics helped a global not-for-profit uncover bullying and harassment hotspots, enabling targeted investigations and corrective actions to protect staff and brand reputation.

Insights

Business success and personal wealth the impact of alignment

Aligning your business and personal wealth plans ensures seamless progress towards your goals, maximising opportunities and reducing stress along the way.

2 contributors

Sydney

Insights

From vision to reality: PKF’s business advisory service helping to build a cutting-edge fertility clinic

With PKF’s guidance, Antony Lighten successfully transformed his vision into a reality, securing the funding and strategic support needed to build a cutting-edge fertility clinic.

Andrew Chen

Partner

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

Outsourced and virtual CFO services — empowering your business with strategic financial expertise

Outsourced CFO services provide expert financial guidance at a fraction of the cost, helping you grow your business with strategic planning and optimised cash flow.

Richard Cai

Partner

Sydney

Insights

New year – Groundhog Day, or is this the year to achieve what you want?

Ready to transition from the ‘middle phase’ to the ‘exit phase’? Regain energy and shape your business on your terms - scale back or boost dividends. The choice is yours!”

Chad Russell

Partner

Newcastle, Sydney

Insights

Frustrated by inefficiency? How PKF’s Process Review team solves problems with Annature

Chasing signatures is one of those insidious ‘ugh’ tasks often not considered, taking way more time than it should. With Annature, that frustration disappears - saving time and transforming the way businesses operate.

Stacie Shaw

Partner

Newcastle, Sydney

Insights

Cyber insurance – what is it, and why would I need it?

Cyber Insurance provides critical financial support and expert resources to help businesses navigate the complexities of a cyber incident, making it an essential safeguard in today’s increasingly digital world.

Andrew Brett

Director, Infosure

New year resolution is now the right time to sell your business

Insights

New year resolutions – Is now the right time to sell your business?

Deciding to sell your business is a significant milestone in your entrepreneurial journey, and the New Year is the perfect time to reflect on whether it's the right moment to take that step.

Joel Floyd

Principal

Newcastle

Insights

Another business saved in small business restructure

Another successful Small Business Restructure (SBR) – maintaining our 100% strike rate in securing creditor approval and helping businesses overcome financial challenges.

Senray Loy

Principal

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

Transition to the new aged care act

The transition to the new Aged Care Act marks a fundamental shift – ensuring better quality care, greater transparency, and stronger accountability for aged care providers across Australia.

David Hutchison

Partner

Newcastle, Sydney

Insights

The age of ESG: Why corporate responsibility matters

Corporate responsibility beyond profit At its core, ESG encourages corporations and other businesses and not for profit entities to be better corporate citizens and expand their focus beyond financial performance. Traditionally corporations were focused on financial aspects of their business, such as profitability, EBIT, dividend yields to name a few...

Simon Fermanis

Partner

Perth

Insights

Driving growth and trust: How audit and assurance adds value for investment management services

For companies that provide investment management services, Type 1 and Type 2 reports can play an important role in evaluating the design, implementation and effectiveness of control environments.

Alexandra Carvalho

Partner

Perth

Insights

March Forward — International Women’s Day 2025

As we acknowledge International Women's Day (IWD) on March 8, 2025, PKF Australia proudly stands alongside the global community in celebrating the achievements, contributions, and progress of women in all sectors.

Emma Hansen

Head of Marketing

Sydney, Newcastle

Insights

Nicholas Falzon

Nicholas Falzon

Nicholas Falzon

Nicholas Falzon

Stacie Shaw

Stacie Shaw

Stacie Shaw

Stacie Shaw

Stacie Shaw

Stacie Shaw

Ryan Lu

Becky Nguyen

2 contributors

Becky Nguyen

David Pring

Emma Hansen

Jackie Marriott

Bob Bell

Garry Mathoda

Angela Lenehan

Alex Honner

2 contributors

Georgett Coleman

2 contributors

Tony Doyle

Clayton Hickey

Steve Meyn

Andrew Beattie

Anthony Russo Battagliolo

2 contributors

2 contributors

Madina Radinovich

David Pring

Daniel Clements

Andrew Pullen

2 contributors

Andrew Chen

Richard Cai

Chad Russell

Stacie Shaw

Andrew Brett

Joel Floyd

Senray Loy

David Hutchison

Simon Fermanis

Alexandra Carvalho

Emma Hansen

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