As the new financial year begins, it presents an excellent opportunity for businesses and individuals to reassess their financial strategies.

At DFK Benjamin King Money, we are here to support you for the upcoming financial year. We provide the following summary to assist you in making the most of the new financial year.

1. Review and Update Financial Plans

• Budgeting: Start by reviewing your previous year’s budget. Assess areas where you over or underspent and adjust your budget accordingly. Setting a realistic and detailed budget will help you manage cash flow more effectively.
• Forecasting: Develop financial forecasts based on the previous year’s performance and upcoming trends. This will aid in strategic planning and identifying potential growth areas or challenges.

2. Tax Planning and Compliance

• Review Tax Obligations: Ensure you are up-to-date with any changes in tax legislation. This includes changes in GST, income tax rates, and other relevant tax policies.
• Lodge Tax Returns: Prepare and lodge your tax returns promptly to avoid penalties. Consider consulting with our tax professionals to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Tax Deductions: Identify all possible tax deductions and credits applicable to your business. Properly documented deductions can significantly reduce your taxable income.

3. Superannuation Contributions

• Review Superannuation Policies: Check the current superannuation contribution limits and ensure compliance with the superannuation guarantee (SG). The SG rate has increased to 11.5% from 1 July 2024, so adjust your contributions accordingly.
• Concessional Contributions Cap: The concessional contributions cap from 1 July 2024 will be changing from $27,500 to $30,000.
• Non-concessional contributions: The annual cap for non-concessional contributions from 1 July 2024 will be $120,000, up from $110,000. The three-year bring forward non-concessional has also increased to $360,000 from $330,000.

4. Business Structure and Asset Protection

• Evaluate Business Structure: Assess whether your current business structure (sole trader, partnership, company, or trust) is still the most tax-effective and suitable for your needs. Changes in the business environment or personal circumstances may necessitate restructuring.
• Asset Protection: Implement strategies to protect your assets from potential risks. This could include updating insurance policies, revising estate plans, and ensuring adequate legal protection for intellectual property.

5. Financial Records and Reporting

• Organize Financial Records: Ensure all financial records are accurate and up-to-date. This includes invoices, receipts, bank statements, and payroll records.
• Implement Efficient Reporting Systems: Use accounting software to streamline financial reporting. This will help in generating timely and accurate financial statements and reports.

6. Sustainability and ESG Considerations

• Incorporate ESG Factors: Evaluate how environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors impact your business. Implementing sustainable practices can improve your reputation and long-term viability.
• Sustainability Reporting: Consider reporting on your sustainability efforts to stakeholders. This transparency can enhance trust and open up new investment opportunities.

The beginning of a new financial year is an ideal time to reset and strategize for success. By following these steps, you can ensure that your financial and business practices are optimised, compliant, and geared towards growth. At DFK Benjamin King Money we are here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us to take the first step towards a prosperous financial year.

Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Please consult with our professional advisors to discuss your specific circumstances.