Kong v CofT – Seafood business: unexplained cash deposits were ‘income’, extended amendment period & 50% penalties

On 10 August 2021, the AAT upheld assessments based on surplus cash deposits, of a local seafood business was income, allowed amendments beyond 4 years based on ‘fraud or evasion’, upheld 50% ‘reckless’ shortfall penalties and did not remit interest penalties. See below for further details. [Tax Month – August 2021]     The facts…

Improving financial reporting and auditing of APRA-regulated super funds (RSEs) – consultation on draft legislation (submissions by 8 Sept 2021)

On 12.8.21, the Federal Minister for Superannuation a media release, saying that the Government proposes to make changes to ensure the superannuation system’s financial reporting and auditing framework is commensurate to the size and significance of the sector and to do that, was releasing an exposure draft, of the relevant legislation, for consultation, with submissions…

SMSF now allowed up to 6 members – ATO notes ABR now updated but watch state law maxima on number of trustees

SMSFs and small APRA funds can have up to 6 members from 1 July 2021 following legislative amendments. On Friday 13.8.21, the ATO uploaded a post, noting that the Australian Business Register (ABR) has been updated to enable SMSFs to add a fifth or sixth member instead of using their interim process. See below for further detail.…

Tasmania – $20m Covid support package for key industries hit by pandemic related government restrictions

Also on 13 August 2021, the Federal Treasurer and Tasmanian Premier jointly announced a jointly funded COVID-19 relief package specifically targeted at businesses operating in tourism, hospitality, arts and events, seafood and transport (hire car, coach tours) sectors, as well as those that have been “impacted directly by reduced interstate visitation”. As I understand it, Tasmania…