Australia: Income Tax

Obtaining certainty of being classified as a ‘fixed trust’ is now more important than ever for fund managers as the trustees of most non-fixed trusts are proposed to be subject to a 30% minimum tax from 1 July 2028.

The Australian Treasury has released exposure draft legislation detailing the implementation of a 30% minimum tax on discretionary trusts, introducing a new election regime that allows trusts to nominate fixed distribution entitlements and avoid the minimum tax. While the draft addresses stakeholder feedback and provides rollover relief for restructuring, it presents complex compliance requirements, strict limitations on beneficiary variations, and potential resettlement issues that may create challenges

Separating couples often overlook the tax implications of property settlements, only to face unexpected capital gains tax liabilities years later when assets are sold. With the 2025 amendments to the Family Law Act fundamentally changing how uncrystallised CGT liabilities are treated, understanding the interplay between tax law and family law has become critical to preserving the real value of a settlement. This analysis examines how strategic tax structuring at the point of settlement—including CGT r

Private client partner Clinton Jackson breaks down the key tax changes announced in the 2026 federal Budget, including proposed reforms to capital gains tax, negative gearing, and discretionary trust taxation. With draft legislation still under review and final rules yet to be determined, Jackson advises clients on what to watch for and when to take action.

On 28 May 2026 the federal government introduced a Bill to Parliament to give effect to the wide-ranging capital gains tax (CGT) and negative gearing changes that had been announced in the 2026-27 Federal Budget

Members' Voluntary Liquidation (MVL) offers solvent companies a structured, tax-effective way to wind up operations and return surplus capital to shareholders. When is this lesser-known option the right choice for business owners, and what benefits can it deliver compared to informal deregistration or leaving a dormant company in place?

In this episode of SMSFs with CGW, we're giving updates on the government's proposed tax on super balances over $3 million.

The ATO has published a draft practical compliance guideline outlining its planned approach to the Payday Superannuation reforms for the Financial Year 2026 to 2027.

On 30 October 2025, the Federal Court of Australia handed down its decision in YTL Power Investments Limited v Commissioner of Taxation of the Commonwealth of Australia [2025] FCA 1317.