Victoria's 7.5% Short Stay Levy

Victoria’s 7.5% Short Stay Levy

The Victorian Government has recently announced a new tax that will impact those that choose to rent their properties using platforms such as Airbnb and Stayz. This announcement is part of a wider housing strategy to tackle housing supply and affordability issues outlined in Victoria’s Housing Statement ‘The decade ahead|2024-2034'.

Victoria has more than 36,000 short stay accommodation places with almost half of these properties located in regional Victoria. The levy is to be set at 7.5 per cent of the short stay accommodation platform’s revenue and will start from 2025. The money raised from this levy, the first of its kind in Australia, is to be put towards Homes Victoria to support their work of providing social and affordable housing. Regional Victoria has been pledged to receive 25 per cent of the funds raised.

CoggerGurry will continue to monitor this levy and other state government taxes to help you stay abreast of any developments. This new levy will be in conjunction with state land tax which has also recently changed to lower thresholds, meaning more property owners will be caught in the land tax net. For more information about any of the above read our article on 2023-24 Land Tax Rates or view the Victoria’s Housing Statement located at www.vic.gov.au/housing-statement.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Superannuation Rate Increase – What Employers Need to Know

By Cogger Gurry • February 13, 2025

A quick reminder for all employers: the Superannuation Guarantee (SG) rate is set to increase. Currently, you’re required to contribute 11.5% of your employees' ordinary time earnings (OTE) to their super. However, from 1 July 2025 , this will rise to 12% . Super contributions must be paid at least quarterly to eligible employees, so now is the time to plan for this change and ensure your payroll systems are updated. Stay ahead of the update and keep your business compliant. Did you know we also offer Bookkeeping and Payroll Support ? Call us today to discuss how we can help 03 5571 0111

HOW TAX WORKS IN AUSTRALIA’S SUPERANNUATION SYSTEM

By Cogger Gurry • February 13, 2025

Australia’s super system plays a vital role in ensuring financial security for individuals in retirement. However, how superannuation is taxed can appear complex. In Australia, superannuation is taxed at three main points: contributions, investment earnings and withdrawals. This structure is known as a TTE (taxed, taxed, exempt) system: contributions to the superannuation fund are taxed and the investment earnings within the fund are also taxed, but withdrawals made during retirement are generally exempt from tax. That is, in Australia’s system: Contributions, including those made by employers under the super guarantee (SG) and voluntary concessional contributions, are taxed at a concessional rate of 15%. This is lower than the rates that apply to most other forms of income, providing a tax advantage. Earnings generated from fund investments during the accumulation phase are also taxed at a flat rate of 15%. This is beneficial because it’s lower than the tax rates that typically apply to investment income earned outside of superannuation. Withdrawals made during retirement are generally tax-free. This is intended to enhance the appeal of building super savings over your working life, ensuring you have a tax-effective income stream in retirement. Call us today to discuss your superannuation with one of our experts 03 5571 0111

ATO LAUNCHES ITS SMALL BUSINESS FOCUS AREAS FOR 2025

By Cogger Gurry • February 13, 2025

Staying on top of the ATO’s focus areas for 2025 will help your business stay compliant and avoid unnecessary stress. The ATO has highlighted key areas where businesses often make mistakes, so you can take proactive steps to manage your tax responsibilities. Keep Business and Personal Finances Separate Your business’s money and assets should not be treated as your personal funds. Using company money for personal expenses without proper documentation can lead to issues with the ATO. If you take money from your business, it may be treated as a loan that needs to be properly recorded and repaid with interest. If not managed correctly, this can result in unexpected tax bills or penalties. Claim Deductions and Concessions Correctly Many small businesses make mistakes when claiming tax deductions and concessions. The ATO is paying close attention to how businesses apply for small business capital gains tax (CGT) concessions and report business losses. If you’re claiming a deduction, ensure you meet all the requirements to avoid having to pay back incorrectly claimed amounts or facing penalties. Follow the Tax Rules The ATO is cracking down on businesses that under-report income, over-claim expenses, or use business funds for personal spending. Poor record-keeping and cash flow management can also raise red flags. Good financial habits will help you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary scrutiny. For more information from the ATO, read the full details here