As awareness of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues grows, many investors seek to align their investment portfolios with their personal values. ESG investing, which focuses on companies' ethical and sustainable practices, has become a popular choice for those who want to make a positive impact while achieving financial returns. For Australians, one of the most effective ways to customise ESG investments is through a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF). This article explores the benefits of

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As cryptocurrency gains popularity, many investors remain uncertain about their tax obligations. Recent surveys highlight a significant gap in understanding, leading to the need for better compliance and record-keeping. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has established clear guidelines for taxing cryptocurrency, and non-compliance can result in significant penalties. Survey Insights According to the Independent Reserve Cryptocurrency Index, nearly 45% of Australian cryptocurrency investors do not fully understand their tax responsibilities. Additionally, 54% of participants have

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Separation is never easy, and the complexities involved can make it even more challenging. If you are currently navigating or soon to be facing a separation, there are major financial and emotional factors that need careful consideration. In these circumstances, there are often no clear winners or losers, as the process can be emotionally taxing for everyone involved. The Family Law Act 1975 serves as the cornerstone of family law in Australia, providing essential guidelines

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Humans have utilised gold as an investment vehicle to for thousands of years to drive wealth and display their fortunes. Over the past 12 months the gold price has risen over 21%. Gold might be a great investment choice in specific situations, such as when inflation is high, during economic uncertainty or geopolitical instability. At such times gold can outperform other asset classes and be used as a haven during market volatility.While gold may experience

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A guide to help you get ready for tax season, with tips from the ATO and our tax experts. Why You Should Start Preparing For Your Tax Return Now Tax time is here, and it's time to start getting your financial records in order. Whether you are an employee, a sole trader, or a business owner, you need to lodge your tax return by 31 October 2024. But don't rush to submit it as soon

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Now that the end of the financial year has passed, CPA Australia has alerted taxpayers to the Australian Taxation Office's (ATO) main focus areas for tax returns: rental property income, work-related expenses, and cryptocurrency profits. Scrutiny on Rental Property Claims Rental property owners should be meticulous with their claims, as the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has heightened its scrutiny on various aspects of rental property deductions. One primary area of focus is the distinction between

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On the evening of 14 May 2024, the Government delivered what is possibly its last Budget in the current parliamentary term. The next election is expected to be held either late this year or early in 2025.Inflation, cost of living pressures, and housing all continue to dominate the fiscal landscape, impacting the lives of Australians. The key challenges addressed in this year’s Budget include:Easing cost of living and inflationary pressures,Building more houses,Strengthening Medicare and the care

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The housing affordability crisis is having unintended consequences between generations, according to economist Professor Rachel ViforJ. "There's definitely growing intergenerational tension in the housing market. Most people who are home owners are older and many of them would have bought back in say the 1980s, or the 1990s, just before the worldwide housing boom." "If you bought just before the housing boom, then you would be enjoying a huge amount of capital gain," said Professor ViforJ. Unfortunately, what that means is that it's actually locking out growing numbers of young people from being able to access first home ownership."

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If you have participated in a BBQ with family or friends, property investment can be an uncomfortable topic when it comes to housing affordability. The disparity arises where younger buyers express concern about being ‘priced-out’ of the market because of investor tax incentives. One of those tax incentives is negative gearing, which essentially means any losses a housing investor makes on the shortfall between rent and interest will be offset against other income — and covered by the taxpayer. Speaking of this dynamic, Tim Lawless of CoreLogic said there were some ways to scale it back if any politician is game to try.

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Whether you are a homeowner or a renter, everyone is entitled to live in their homes with peace and quiet enjoyment. This right, however, can sometimes be challenged by various disruptions, making it essential to understand how to protect it without undue stress.For renters in Queensland, the concept of "quiet enjoyment" is enshrined in the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008. This legislation ensures that tenants can enjoy their rented premises without undue disturbance

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