The Government is introducing a subsidy program to support employees and businesses. The JobKeeper Payment is designed to help businesses affected by the Coronavirus to cover the costs of their employees’ wages, so that more employees can retain their job and continue to earn an income. Keeping Australians in work and businesses in business will lay the foundations for a stronger economic recovery once the Coronavirus crisis passes.

The spread of the virus is expected to be prolonged over at least the next six months. Governments, both international and domestic, have announced stricter mitigation measures to slow the spread of the virus, which are having significant economic impacts. Since 12 March 2020 the Government has announced and revised a range of economic responses which total to $189 billion across forward estimates, representing almost 10% of annual GDP. Read more about the government grants, incentives and allowances you may be able to apply for.

In first edition of Business Matters for 2020 we're starting the year by looking at the ways you can start the new decade with impact for your business. We also talk about CGT on Commercial Property sales and the simplification of Activity Statements by the ATO, hiring friends and family as well as the legal requirements for unpaid staff, Staff awards and incentives and much more. The new year is often a time when our clients are looking at making changes including business name changes so we're taking a look at how this can be achieved.

In the November Edition of Business Matters we look at Deduction Rules for Small Business and some of the different processes for calculating/claiming on your assets. Considerations when implementing surveillance in the workplace has become a much talked about topic in the last couple of years so we look at Business obligations with regards to staff surveillance. We also have information regarding dealing with negative customer reviews, what to do if your business records are lost or destroyed, recognising conflict of interest and much more.

In the July Edition of Business Matters we talk about a range of issues affecting your business. We look at if your business is eligible for the small business income tax offset, how you can maximise your tax deductions as a home-based business and the legal obligations of marketing as well as provide a handy resource for upcoming tax deadlines and important dates.

In the May Edition of Business Matters we take a look at your Fringe Benefits Tax obligations. How to take advantage of cashless business. We also look at ATO increases for fuel tax credits and the requirements for Single Touch Payroll and how businesses can utilise Remote Workers.