March 2020 – Practice Update

Employer’s requirements and the deductibility of WREs Some employees may wonder whether a work-related expense (or ‘WRE’) becomes deductible merely because their employer specifically requires the employee to incur the expense. Importantly, the ATO’s recent draft ruling on the deductibility of work-related expenses reiterates that an employer’s requirements do not determine the question of deductibility....

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January / February 2020 – Practice Update

Lifestyle assets continue to be an ATO audit target The ATO has revealed it will request a further five years’ worth of policy information from over 30 insurance companies about taxpayers who own marine vessels, thoroughbred horses, fine art, high-value motor vehicles and aircraft.  The ATO expects to receive information about assets owned by around...

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December 2019 – Christmas Practice Update

Year-end (and other) staff Christmas parties Editor:  With the well earned December/January holiday season on the way, many employers will be planning to reward staff with a celebratory party or event.  However, there are important issues to consider, including  the possible FBT and income tax implications of providing ‘entertainment’ (including Christmas parties) to staff and...

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