FirstTech Podcast

Craig Day, Tim Sanderson, Alex Denham and Kim Guest discuss the following adviser questions:My client wants to withdraw an additional amount from their account based pension - what is the best way to take it, as a lump sum or additional pension payment?My client previously withdrew an amount from their pension as a lump sum commutation, but that was a mistake and we now want it to be treated as an additional pension payment, how do we do that?

This episode looks at the proposed transitional relief for excess concessional contributions arising from the move to Payday Super.We look at how the timing of SG payments during the transition could result in some employees receiving up to 15 months of employer contributions in 2026-27, potentially leading to an unintended breach of their concessional contributions cap. We also explain the Government's proposed relief, including when it may apply and which circumstances may fall outside the relief.

Craig Day and Tim Sanderson discuss the ATO's guidance on SMSF establishment costs, including when members can pay and be reimbursed, when those costs may be treated as contributions and which establishment expenses can be charged to the SMSF.

As we step into the 2026-27 financial year, advisers are actively helping clients plan and implement strategies for the year ahead. However its just as important to look back, as the way clients complete their 2025-26 tax returns can have a direct impact on the success of the financial planning strategies advisers recommended for the 2025-26 year.Several financial planning strategies rely on the correct completion of the individual tax return. If key items are missed or incorrectly reported, the strategy may not work as intended, and in some cases, may even trigger adverse tax consequences.

Craig Day, Linda Bruce, William Truong and Kim Guest discuss the latest technical news:Draft legislation for the 30% minimum tax on discretionary trusts2026 Intergenerational Report and the implications for retirement and aged care adviceHow Payday Super is operating three months from commencement

Craig Day, Linda Bruce, Tim Sanderson, Alex Denham and Kim Guest discuss the latest technical news:CGT and negative gearing changes, in situations involving death and relationship breakdownProposed super reforms in relation to SMSFsChanges to the payment of pension supplement when going overseasDeeming rate from 20 SeptAnnouncement regarding Commonwealth Home Support Program

Peter Burgess, CEO of the SMSF Association talks to Craig Day about the proposed super reforms to strengthen customer protections in relation to SMSFs.

From the 2027-28 financial year, significant changes to CGT rules mean that some clients will realise capital gains that are subject to a minimum 30% tax rate.For these clients, the benefit of making a personal deductible super contribution, as well as the optimum contribution amount, may change compared with current strategies.