Latest News
Stage 2 – Covid-19 stimulus package.
Detail on what the second stimulus package means to your hip pocket, Centrelink payments and staff retention.
The announcements for individuals, retirees, households and employers:
- Temporary early release of superannuation for those in need
- Reducing the minimum drawdown rates for superannuation income streams for the 2019/20 and 2020/21 years
- Reducing the deeming rates by a further 0.25%
- An additional $750 lump sum for pensioners and concession card holders
- Additional income support payments for the unemployed
- Keeping staff employed
NB: There is another article on our site that covers details of Stage 1 of the Government's Covid-19 stimulus package.
Release of super funds:
The Federal Government has decided to allow financially stressed people to access $10,000 tax free of their super fund this financial year and $10,000 next financial year.
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg made the announcement on Sunday as part of a broader $66 billion stimulus package to mitigate the fallout from the outbreak that has killed more than 13,000 people worldwide and is tipped to plunge the global economy into a recession.
“These extraordinary times demand extraordinary measures,” the treasurer said in a statement. “The government is taking unprecedented action to strengthen the safety net available to Australians that are stood down or lose their jobs and increasing support for small businesses that do it tough over the next six months.”
Eligibility: One of the following requirements must be satisfied for the early release of super:
- You are unemployed; or
- You are eligible to receive a job seeker payment, youth allowance for jobseekers, parenting payment, special benefit or farm household allowance; or
- On or after 1 January 2020:
- You were made redundant; or
- Your working hours were reduced by 20 per cent or more; or
- If you are a sole trader – your business was suspended or there was a reduction in your turnover of 20 per cent or more.
If eligible, individuals can apply directly to the ATO via MyGov (www.my.gov.au) and will be required to certify that they meet the eligibility criteria. The ATO will then issue a determination and contact the super fund directly to release the money.
It is anticipated that payments will be available from mid-April. Payments will be received tax free and will have no impact on existing income support payments.
Reduction of minimum pension drawdown requirements
As we saw in the Global Financial Crisis (GFC), a temporary reduction to the minimum payment rules will apply for superannuation income streams to assist retirees who would otherwise be forced to sell down assets to meet their minimum pension.
For the 2019/20 and 2020/21 financial years, the minimum drawdown rates will be:
Deeming rates.
Further to the recent decrease in deeming rates announced earlier this month, the Government will reduce deeming rates by another 0.25% from 1 May 2020. The new rates are provided in the table below.
Additional $750 lump sum payment
Two separate lump sum payments will now be available to eligible social security, veteran and other income support recipients and eligible concession card holders as follows:
Payment one – available to those eligible income support recipients and concession card holders at any time between 12 March 2020 and 12 April 2020.
Payment two – available to eligible payment recipients and concession card holders on 10 July 2020.
The two lump sum payments will be received tax free and will not impact existing income support payments.
The payment will be made automatically from July 13 to about 5 million Australians, including those receiving the age pension, a carers allowance or family tax benefit and Commonwealth senior card holders.
For payment one, the qualifying payments and concession cards are as follows:
To be eligible for payment two, the same list applies EXCEPT if you are entitled to the Coronavirus Supplement (explained below).
Additional income support for the unemployed and faster access
The Government will introduce the Coronavirus Supplement, a $550 per fortnight payment available for the next six months to eligible payment recipients. Additionally, access to income support will be expanded and the claims process accelerated to ensure timely payments for those in need.
Eligibility: The payment categories eligible to receive the Coronavirus Supplement are:
- Jobseeker Payment (including all the payments that are currently moving to Jobseeker Payment)
- Youth Allowance Jobseeker
- Parenting Payment
- Farm Household Allowance
- Special Benefit recipients
While the Coronavirus Supplement is available (temporary measure for approximately six months), the Government will expand access to income support (such as Jobseeker Payment) to:
- Permanent employees who are stood down/lose their job
- Sole traders/self employed
- Casual workers
- Contract workers
The standard allowance income test must be met however the assets test that normally applies to allowances (ie $1 over the asset test threshold results in no payment) will be waived for the Coronavirus Supplement period.
Some waiting periods will also be reduced or waived. The standard one week Ordinary Waiting Period, the Liquid Assets Waiting Period (LAWP) and the Seasonal Work Preclusion Period will all be waived.
How to apply: The Government is encouraging all applications to be made online or over the phone if internet access is not available. Measures have been adopted to accelerate the claims process such as removing the requirement for Employment Separation Certificates and the need to make appointments with an employment service.
The commencement date for the Coronavirus Supplement and the expanded access to income support is 27 April 2020.
Casuals and sole traders
If you've found yourself affected by the economic downturn, you'll be able to access a “coronavirus supplement” of $550 a fortnight for the next six months.
That's on top of other benefits — so if you're already receiving payments through Jobseeker (formerly known as Newstart), you can claim both.
Sole traders and casual workers who are currently making less than $1,075 a fortnight will be eligible to receive the full supplement.
In practice, that means if you're a single parent (receiving a maximum fortnightly payment of $612 through Jobseeker), for example, and you meet the criteria, you'll take home about $1,162 a fortnight.
“This means anyone eligible for the maximum Jobseeker payment will now receive more than $1,100 a fortnight, effectively doubling the Jobseeker allowance,” Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said.
Sole traders or casual workers who have had their income or hours reduced by 20 per cent or more as a result of coronavirus will also be able to access to up to $10,000 of their superannuation tax-free.
Employers who want to keep staff
Not-for-profits and small businesses with a turnover under $50 million will receive a tax-free cash payment of up to $100,000 to help them retain staff and continue operating.
The Government expects 690,000 businesses employing 7.8 million people and 30,000 not-for-profits will be eligible for measures in the stimulus package.
It doesn't mean extra pocket money if you're an employee, but by linking the payments to staff wage tax withholdings, businesses will be given an incentive to hold on to more of their workers.
“We know that small businesses are enormously resilient but this is really hurting them,” Mr Morrison said.
“Whether it is a coffee shop or mechanic or hairdresser… by providing at a minimum $20,000 and up to $100,000 for small businesses who employ people, [it] gives them a chance to get to the other side.”
Expect more to come…
An important thing to keep in mind is that this is the second suite of measures announced by the Government in just a matter of weeks. Details about the first stimulus package can be read here.
For more information
For more information on these measures and other announcements made by the Australian Government visit treasury.gov.au/coronavirus or speak with your Financial Planner or Accountant.
Source: Several sources and the ATO.
Latest Articles
Our SG compliance results are here
Learn how we've responded to the non-payment of super guarantee (SG) in 2023–24. . If...
ATO to target growing businesses in latest compliance blitz
The Tax Office will be contacting medium-sized and emerging businesses over the next month to review trusts...
Practitioners cautioned on ATO’s top target areas for GST
A tax specialist has outlined three of the major GST areas on the ATO’s radar based on recent...
Christmas Parties and Taxi Fare/Rideshare – FBT implications.
Some employers, who are commendably anxious to protect their employees and clients from the drink/driving...
Assess a business before you buy it
Ensure the business you buy is a worthwhile investment . There are pros and cons to buying an existing...
What are the FBT implications of Employee Christmas Parties and Gifts?
The Christmas break-up party and/or gifts to employees can be exempt from Fringe Benefits if a few rules are...
ATO reveals small business hit list to combat tax debt
The Tax Office hopes shedding light on its enforcement priorities will improve taxpayer...
Once again we are pleased to release an advent calendar. One developed especially for you, our clients, your...
20 Years of Silicon Valley Trends: 2004 – 2024 Insights
Check out the 20 years of Silicon Valley...
1 in 3 crypto owners confused about tax, study reveals
Australian cryptocurrency owners need to be aware of their profits and whether they incur tax, experts have...
Withholding for foreign residents: an ATO focus area
The ATO is currently focusing on ensuring that taxpayers are aware of their obligations regarding treatment of...
Controversial ‘Airbnb tax’ set to become law
A levy on short-stay accommodation bookings will apply from next year after being passed by the Victorian...
Accounting & Bookkeeping
Modern business demands up to date accurate financial information.
We can take care of all your bookkeeping and accounting needs, including the preparation of your annual accounts and periodic management accounts for tax, business appraisal and planning purposes.
We can also assist with meeting your reporting requirements including Business Activity Statements, PAYG Withholding and Instalment Activity Statements.
We will discuss your requirements with you and provide you with tailored information and constructive advice on a regular basis.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Acquisitions & Mergers
Whether you are considering buying or selling a business, we are able to assist you in this transaction by providing experienced advice.
Each transaction is different and needs to be assessed on its individual merits. There are a number of accounting and taxation opportunities with these transactions and our experience can ensure you are maximising your benefits.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Budgeting
A good budget is a necessity in a good business plan. It is one of the best business tools we have, allowing us to set financial targets and measure our performance.
In addition to goal setting value, budgets will often improve your chances of acquiring funding. Financers often require budgets as a prerequisite for funding approval.
We have extensive experience with assisting clients in the budgeting process.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Business Start-Ups
Before commencing a new business, the following are some of the key items that need to be considered:
- Decide on the most suitable structure for your business – sole trader, partnership, trust or company
- Prepare a business plan, cashflow projections, budgets, and trading forecasts
- Assess your finance requirements, advise on the best sources of finance, and draw up the necessary proposals
- Establish a good working relationship with your bank
- Register for a Tax File Number and an Australian Business Number with the ATO
- Complete registration procedures with Australian Securities and Investments Commission
- Deal with company secretarial issues
- Set up a recording system for your internal use and for complying with statutory requirements
Each new business is different and needs to be considered in relation to your individual circumstances and our experience can ensure you are maximising your opportunities.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Charitable Institutions
Charitable institutions are set up to hold money or assets and carry out activities for the benefit of the community. In Australia, a variety of charitable institutions exist including:
- Various forms of charitable trusts
- Companies limited by guarantee
- Unincorporated associations
- Deductible gift recipients
- Prescribed private fund
Each type of charitable institution brings with it different requirements and benefits. We know the practicalities of these institutions and are able to assist you by:
- Co-ordinating the preparation of constituent documents
- Applying to the ATO for an Australian Business Number and Tax File Number
- Organising tax exemptions where applicable
- Attending to all compliance and statutory filings
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Company Secretary
Company legislation requires businesses to perform many administration tasks which take up a lot of valuable company time.
We are able to assist you in the following areas:
- General advice on company law
- Company formations
- Filing of annual returns on your behalf
- Preparation of all documentation related to minutes and resolutions
- Maintenance of statutory books
- Assistance in changes of directors, shareholders, addresses, and office details
- Bonus Issues
- Share transfers
- Registered Office Facility
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Financial Structures
Having the right financial structure in place for your business or your family means looking at your individual circumstances and ensuring that your assets are being maximised whilst being adequately protected.
We have extensive experience in ensuring our clients have the best financial structure for their needs both now and in the future. We can provide advice on and assist with:
- Effective structures for asset protection
- Effective structures for tax minimisation
- The optimal structure through which to operate your business
- Structures to assist in succession planning and providing for future generations
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
GST
Every transaction has GST implications. We have experience with these issues and are able to offer expert advice on the implications of GST for your business. The GST related services we offer include:
- Assistance with registering for GST
- Filing and adjusting GST returns
- ATO audit assistance
- Advice on GST related issues
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Management Consulting
We are practiced in acting as a sounding board for management, bringing to the relationship years of experience in business growth and analysis.
We are able to check that your business is as competitive, focused, and profitable as it can be and we will work with you to address any issues.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Payroll Services
We can provide a comprehensive and confidential payroll service including:
- Administration of PAYG Withholding, statutory sick pay, annual leave etc
- Australian Taxation Office filing
- Summaries and analyses of staff costs
- Administration of incentive schemes, bonuses and termination payments
- Assistance with payroll tax and workers compensation obligations
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Rental Properties
We can assist in a variety of areas in relation to residential and commercial property including:
- Advice on funding
- Cash flow analysis of property investment
- Guidance in tax related areas including negative gearing and capital gains tax
- Advice on ownership structure
- Preparation of initial land tax returns and land tax variation returns
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Clients of Wybenga & Partners Pty Limited can engage our partner firm, Washington Brown, for a competitive price on their depreciation services: Tax Depreciation Quote Request – Wybenga & Partners Pty Limited Clients
Strategic Planning & Advice
Our Strategic Planning Service is designed to assist our clients to develop financially towards the achievement of their lifetime objectives. Our experience and proven results provide our clients with the security that their financial goals will be met.
Wybenga Financial Pty Ltd is an organisation providing wealth creation and management services to private clients.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Superannuation
Self-managed superannuation is a flexible means of saving for retirement. It allows you to take control of your superannuation, adopt a customized investment strategy and control fund administration costs.
Superannution law is a delicate area and personalised planning is required for each individual. We have extensive experience in all areas relating to superannuation and can assist in establishing a superannuation fund that will effectively allow you to reach your financial retirement goals.
Services we offer include:
- Establishment of Self Managed Superannuation Funds
- Advice concerning Compliance Matters
- Advice concerning Taxation Benefits
- Advice on Employer obligations
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Taxation
We offer a complete range of taxation services and advice based on proven knowledge and experience. Our proactive approach ensures we deliver a consistent service and build solid relationships.
We will work with you to help reduce your tax exposure and provide services including:
- Advice on all areas of direct and indirect taxation
- Preparation and lodgement of annual income tax returns for all types of entities
- Preparation of PAYG withholding variation applications
- Preparation of activity statements and advice on payment of tax
- Assistance with GST/FBT obligations including preparation and lodgement of relevant forms
- Advice on and implementation of tax effective trust structures for asset protection and tax minimisation
- Management of any ATO audits or disputes
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Trusts
A trust provides a valuable way of protecting the assets you have accumulated for the benefit of yourself and others. A trust can also be an effective structure for running your business.
We have extensive experience with trusts and are able to offer specialist advice on establishment and compliance, ensuring that all statutory requirements are met.
Wybenga & Partners are able to organise for the preparation and execution of documentation involved in Trust formation.
Our Trust administration service includes:
- Minute keeping service
- Annual accounts
- Taxation
- Maintenance of CGT register
- Income distribution
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Chris Wybenga
B.Bus, CA
Chris is the Managing Director of the Firm who established the practice in August 1994 and has been responsible for its growth and development since that time.
Chris has over 40-years experience in the Chartered Accountancy profession, predominantly spent in small to medium sized firms, advising both small business and individuals in areas such as taxation and accounting as well as business restructuring and superannuation advice.
Chris is active in the development of young accountants both in mentoring cadets at the Firm and lecturing in taxation for the CA Program for the Institute of Chartered Accountants & New Zealand.
- 1980 – Commenced employment and part time university studies
- 1985 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from University of Technology, Sydney
- 1986 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
- 1988 – Registered as a Registered Company Auditor
- 1994 – Established Wybenga & Partners (formerly known as Farrar & Wybenga)
Dianne Bechara
B.Bus, CA
Dianne is responsible for the day-to-day operations and administration of the practice.
Dianne has over 30-years Chartered Accountancy experience and has significant expertise in providing advice and solutions to high-net-worth individuals and their associated entities. Dianne also has considerable knowledge in the areas of taxation, business services, superannuation, and compliance.
Dianne is active in promoting gender equality in the industry through various programs and mentoring opportunities. Dianne is also committed to the development of young accountants and donates considerable time to sharing her expertise.
- 1992 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from University of Technology, Sydney
- 1993 – Commenced employment in acounting profession
- 1996 – Commenced career with Wybenga & Partners
- 1997 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
- 2002 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners
Roger Potter
B.Bus, CA
Roger is responsible for the HR aspect of the Firm, cultivating the culture, and maintaining the highly social environment we pride ourselves on.
Roger has over 35-years in the Chartered Accountancy profession and significant expertise in providing advice and solutions to small businesses and high-net-worth individuals. He also has extensive experience in the areas of Self-Managed Superannuation Funds and retirement strategies.
Roger is active in the development of young accountants both in mentoring cadets at the firm and lecturing in taxation for the CA Program for the Institute of Chartered Accountants & New Zealand.
- 1985 – Commenced employment and part time university studies
- 1990 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from University of Technology, Sydney
- 1992 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
- 1998 – Commenced career with Wybenga & Partners
- 2002 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners
Tess Uncle
B.Sc, M.Com, CA
Tess has over 22-years experience in Chartered Firms and in this time has had a broad range of experience in superannuation, taxation, and business services. In particular, Tess has had significant experience in MYOB and assisting clients in day-to-day bookkeeping activities and periodic reporting.
Tess is responsible for the Firm’s training and development needs.
Tess is active in promoting gender equality in the industry through various programs and mentoring opportunities. Tess is also committed to the development of young accountants and donates considerable time to sharing her expertise.
- 2001 – Commenced employment with Wybenga & Partners and part-time accountancy studies
- 2004 – Graduated Masters of Commerce from the University of New South Wales
- 2005 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
- 2007 – Promoted to Manager at Wybenga & Partners
- 2012 – Appointed as Associate Director
- 2016 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners
Schedule a Meeting with Tess
Adam Roberts
B.Bus, B.Sc, CA
Adam has over 18-years experience in Chartered Firms and in this time has had a broad range of experience in superannuation, taxation, and business services. In particular, Adam has had significant experience in MYOB and assisting clients with periodic management reporting.
Adam is responsible for the implementation of technology in the Firm and sourcing new areas of innovation and efficiency.
Adam is active in the development of young accountants and donates considerable time to sharing his expertise.
- 2005 – Commenced employment with Wybenga & Partners and part-time Accountancy Studies
- 2005 – Graduated Bachelor of Science from the University of Western Sydney
- 2007 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from the University of Western Sydney
- 2010 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
- 2010 – Promoted to Manager at Wybenga & Partners
- 2012 – Appointed as Associate Director
- 2016 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners