AGP Executive Report
Last update: 32 minutes agoBudget & Tax Pressure on SMEs: Australia’s federal budget is back in the spotlight as the Coalition, Greens and crossbench push for longer Senate scrutiny of Labor’s tax changes, including curbs on negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions—leaving small business owners waiting on what comes next. Wage Costs & Compliance: The Fair Work Commission confirmed minimum wage rises from 1 July 2026 (4.75% for many award workers), adding pressure for cashflow-tight operators. ATO Record-Keeping Warnings: ATO scrutiny is catching small bookkeeping shortcuts—unreported cash, missing invoices and blurred personal/business finances—turning “small mistakes” into six-figure tax problems. Payments Costs: New proposals to cap commercial credit card interchange fees aim to cut business costs by about $40m a year, targeting fees that currently help fund cardholder perks. Local Retail Survival: Retailers are being urged to treat online as part of the same local business, not a separate channel—especially as consumers chase cheaper options online. Nightlife Grants: Visa Vibe Grants will fund affordable, safer community nightlife across states and territories, backing hospitality and arts precincts. Energy & Waste: WA is putting $17.8m into solar panel and battery recycling pathways, while electricity price relief from renewables continues to matter for small operators.
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