Golden Advice or Fool’s Gold? The Real Cost of Tax Tips from Finfluencers
Social media is full of ‘quick tips’ and tax hacks. But when it comes to financial advice, following the wrong influencer could cost you thousands.
The rise of financial influencers—or finfluencers—on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube may feel like a gold rush of information. But beware: beneath the glimmer often lies dangerous advice.
What Is a Finfluencer?
A finfluencer is someone who shares financial content online, usually without formal qualifications. They may post about tax tips, business structures, or even investment products—often without being a registered tax agent or financial adviser.
While some may genuinely want to educate, many are paid to promote financial products or services. That means their top priority isn’t your business—it’s brand deals and commissions.
“Using an unregistered tax practitioner can cost thousands of dollars in tax bills and penalties.” – Michael O’Neill, Chair of the Tax Practitioners Board
Why This Matters: The Real Risks
Taking financial advice from someone who isn’t qualified can result in:
Overstated deductions
Missed tax entitlements
Incorrect business structures
ATO audits or penalties
The Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) warns that using an unregistered preparer leaves you legally responsible for any errors, no matter how well-intentioned the advice. You’ll also forfeit “safe harbour” protection—a safeguard that reduces penalties if a registered agent makes a mistake.
Why Registered Tax Agents Are Worth Their Weight in Gold
Registered tax agents are licensed through the TPB and must meet strict education, experience, and ethical standards. They are also required to:
Stay up to date with tax law changes
Hold professional indemnity insurance
Act in your best interest
Maintain your privacy and data security
Only registered agents can legally charge a fee to prepare and lodge your tax return in Australia. You can verify their credentials using the TPB Register.
This level of protection simply doesn’t exist with a finfluencer—no matter how confident or convincing they sound.
Red Flags: How to Spot Fool’s Gold
Beware of:
Promises of “huge refunds” without knowing your circumstances
Free tax tips from people with no formal qualifications
Requests for your myGov login or Tax File Number
Claims that sound “too good to be true”
If it looks like gold but comes with risk and no accountability—it’s not the real thing.
Trust the Experts, Not the Algorithm
The best place to start for any tax or finance question is the ATO website.
From there, talk to a qualified tax adviser who can tailor guidance to your business. DIY finance may seem easy—but it often leads to costly corrections down the line.
For example, many businesses miss out on legitimate deductions simply because they don’t know what to claim. A registered agent can help identify opportunities while keeping you compliant. See more on allowable deductions in relation to managing tax affairs here.
The Golden Rule: Protect Your Business
Your business is too valuable to gamble on advice from someone unqualified. Finfluencer content might be shiny, but it’s often shallow—and you could pay the price in penalties, stress, or lost cash.
At DJ Grigg Financial, we’re registered, qualified, and committed to supporting your success. Our advice is built on real experience—not social trends.
Ready to turn solid advice into real results?
Contact us today for tailored, trustworthy tax and business support that’s truly worth its weight in gold.
Superannuation Guarantee: The Golden Rule for Employers
Running a business is like managing a vault of precious treasures. One of your key assets? Your employees. To protect their future, Australia’s Superannuation Guarantee (SG) system ensures workers receive the benefits they deserve. For business owners, understanding and complying with SG rules is crucial to staying on the right side of the law.
What Is the Superannuation Guarantee?
The Superannuation Guarantee requires employers to pay a set percentage of an employee’s Ordinary Time Earnings (OTE) into a super fund. As of 2025, the SG rate is 11.5%, set to increase to 12% by 1 July 2025. OTE includes regular salary, commissions, and shift loadings, but excludes overtime.
If you fail to pay on time, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) may impose a Superannuation Guarantee Charge (SGC). The SGC includes the unpaid SG amounts, interest, and an administration fee. Importantly, the SGC is not tax-deductible. (More on SGC here)
Timely SG payments are vital to avoid these costly penalties and to protect your business’s financial health.
Who Must Receive Super?
The SG rules cast a wide golden net. You must pay super contributions for:
Full-time, part-time, and casual employees.
Some contractors if they are mainly paid for their labour.
Directors who are remunerated for performing their duties.
Even if a worker holds an Australian Business Number (ABN), they may still be considered an employee under SG rules.
Expert Insight: When in doubt, it’s safer to treat your worker like an employee for SG purposes.
You generally do not need to pay SG contributions if:
Workers are under 18 and work less than 30 hours a week.
Private and domestic workers work less than 30 hours weekly.
Non-resident employees perform work outside Australia.
Employees are covered by certain international agreements.
Understanding these exemptions helps protect your business and ensures your golden super obligations are met.
The Broader Definition of an Employee
Section 12 of the SG rules stretches the traditional definition of an “employee”. Workers deemed employees include:
Company directors receiving payment for duties.
Contractors mainly paid for their personal labour.
Individuals providing entertainment, artistic, or sports services.
This means even freelancers and sole traders could fall under your SG responsibilities. It is not enough to rely on contracts or ABNs; the true nature of the work relationship matters most.
Why Super Guarantee Compliance Matters
Ignoring SG obligations can seriously tarnish your business reputation. There is no time limit on how far back the ATO can pursue unpaid super. You might think you’ve hidden a few coins, but the ATO’s audit net is finely woven.
According to the ATO, employers paid $7.4 billion in super guarantee shortfalls in 2022–23. Don’t let your business add to that figure!
Super is not a bonus; it is a basic right.
If unpaid, not only can the unpaid amount be demanded, but you might face additional charges, interest, and penalties through the SGC.
Get expert help. Seek advice or an ATO private ruling to confirm your obligations.
Compliance is the golden rule for protecting your business, your people, and your future.
Contact Us Today
Navigating SG obligations doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. At DJ Grigg Financial, we guide you through every step. Ensure your business shines bright and stays compliant.
Contact us today for a superannuation review and advice tailored to your business needs.
As the financial year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to fine-tune your tax strategy. Whether you’re a business owner or employee, smart year-end tax planning can help you strike gold—maximising deductions while avoiding costly mistakes.
Below we explore key tax opportunities and risks, updated in line with current ATO guidance for 2024–25.
Golden Opportunities to Boost Your Tax Outcome
1. Super Contributions – Secure Your Future, Save on Tax
Concessional superannuation contributions are a powerful way to reduce your taxable income and grow your nest egg. The cap for 2024–25 is $30,000, which includes:
Employer contributions
Salary-sacrificed amounts
Personal deductible contributions
If your total super balance is under $500,000, you can carry forward any unused cap amounts from the past five years, allowing for larger catch-up contributions. For example, if you missed $8,000 each year, you could claim up to $40,000 this year. Learn more
Expert Insight: Superannuation remains one of the most tax-effective long-term investments.
Also, if your spouse earns less than $37,000, you may qualify for a $540 tax offset by contributing to their super.
2. Charitable Donations – Give Generously, Claim Smartly
Donating to a registered Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) can reduce your tax bill. Gifts over $2 are deductible and the higher your income, the more valuable the deduction. A $10,000 donation can reduce tax by:
$3,250 for someone earning $120,000
$4,500 for those earning $180,000+
But remember—buying raffle tickets or auction items doesn’t count. Only genuine donations without material benefits are deductible. More on DGR rules
3. Business Write-Offs – Clear the Clutter, Claim It Now
Scrap obsolete plant and equipment before 30 June to write them off, instead of slowly depreciating them. If customers haven’t paid and recovery has failed, write off those bad debts and document them properly to claim a deduction this year.
With the $20,000 instant asset write-off confirmed for 2024–25, eligible businesses can claim an immediate deduction for assets acquired before 30 June. Just ensure the asset is first used or installed ready for use in time. Instant asset write-off details
Tax Traps to Avoid: Where the ATO is Digging
1. Working from Home Claims – Use the Right Method
With many Australians working remotely, it’s important to know the correct rules. As of 2024–25, the ATO recognises two valid methods:
Fixed rate method: 70 cents/hour for running expenses like electricity, internet, and stationery.
Actual cost method: Claim exact amounts with receipts and a diary of work-related use.
To use the fixed rate method, you must record every hour worked from home for the year. A four-week sample no longer applies. ATO fixed rate method
Expert Warning:The ATO requires accurate records—guesses won’t cut it.
2. Rental Property Pitfalls – Know What You Can Claim
You can only claim rental property expenses when the property is genuinely available for rent. The ATO is cracking down on claims for:
Personal use or unrealistic listings
Incorrectly claimed interest from loans used for personal expenses
Repairs that were actually initial improvements
Initial repairs made when you buy a property (like replacing rotted boards or fixing wiring) are not deductible immediately—they’re considered part of the property’s capital cost. ATO guide on rental expenses
Also, don’t forget:
Capital works (like renovations) are deductible at 2.5% per year over 40 years.
Depreciating assets (like hot water systems) are claimed over time.
3. Gig Economy Income – The ATO Is Watching
Income from platforms like Uber, Airbnb, and YouTube is taxable—even if it’s sitting in your platform account or paid in goods. Since 1 July 2023, these platforms must report your earnings to the ATO under new rules. More on this income
Declare all income honestly to avoid penalties and interest.
Business-Specific Strategies
✅ Do Before 30 June
Write off bad debts and obsolete equipment
Pay June quarter super early
Commit to staff bonuses and directors’ fees by resolution
⚠️ Avoid These Red Flags
Unlodged returns: ATO can issue default assessments.
Professional income splitting: Professionals must be fairly remunerated for services provided.
Incorrect co-owner claims: Expenses must be split by legal ownership, not who paid.
Let’s Help You Strike Gold
EOFY is your chance to get ahead, claim what you’re entitled to, and stay in the ATO’s good books. Let us help you mine the best opportunities—and avoid costly traps.
Contact DJ Grigg Financial today for expert tax advice and tailored support before 30 June.
Claiming Self-Education Expenses: Turn Your Learning into Tax Gold
In today’s competitive world, investing in your education is like investing in pure gold. But did you know you may be able to claim some of your self-education expenses in your income tax return?
Understanding how to claim these expenses can help you stay ATO-compliant and maximise your tax benefits.
What Are Self-Education Expenses?
Self-education expenses are costs you incur when furthering your knowledge or skills for work. They include:
Courses at educational institutions (even without a formal qualification)
Training through industry or professional organisations
Work-related seminars and conferences
Self-paced learning and study tours, local or overseas
In short, if you’re polishing your skills for work, some expenses could be a gold mine for deductions.
Am I Eligible to Claim?
The ATO requires a “sufficient connection” between your current job and your study. Your learning must:
Maintain or improve skills and knowledge you use now, or
Likely lead to higher income in your current job.
If your study leads you into a completely new career, you won’t qualify.
Real-life examples:
Eligible: Declan, an enrolled nurse, studies a Bachelor of Nursing. His studies upgrade his nursing skills and future earnings.
Not eligible: Teri, a teacher’s aide, studies a Bachelor of Education to become a teacher. Since this changes her role, she cannot claim.
What Can You Claim?
If eligible, you can claim deductions for:
Tuition fees or seminar costs (excluding fees paid through HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP, or VET Student Loans)
Stationery, internet usage and textbooks
Depreciation on laptops and tech used for study
Travel between home or work and your study location (only the first leg of a combined trip is deductible)
Accommodation and meals for overnight courses
Interest on study-related loans (excluding government loan repayments)
Tip: Only claim expenses directly linked to your self-education. If an item (like a laptop) is shared between study and personal use, apportion the cost carefully and keep detailed records.
Important Stats to Know
According to the ATO, Australian taxpayers claimed over $1.6 billion in self-education expenses in the 2022-23 tax year. However, compliance checks are rising, with one in four education claims adjusted or rejected.
Expert Insight:“The key to claiming self-education expenses is proving a strong link to your current role. Think of it like tracing gold veins — if the link is clear and direct, your claim will shine bright.”
Gold Standards for Record Keeping
Good record-keeping is the Midas touch for successful claims. Keep:
Receipts for all course-related expenses
Course outlines and invoices
Travel records, including distances and purposes
Notes showing how the study relates to your job
The ATO requires you to keep records for five years from the date you lodge your tax return. This golden habit can save you stress if the ATO ever asks questions.
Final Nuggets of Advice
While investing in your skills can lead to higher earnings and better job opportunities, it’s important to claim carefully.
When unsure, don’t gamble with your future — seek professional advice. The ATO’s rules can be tricky, but a good adviser will help you strike gold without stepping on any compliance landmines.
Ready to turn your learning into tax savings?
Contact DJ Grigg Financial today for a golden consultation. We’ll help you claim correctly and maximise your return, the right way.
Golden Mindset: Building Mental Wealth in Business
In today’s business world, mental health isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Just like financial wealth, mental wealth needs conscious investment. As headlines grow darker and pressures rise, many business owners feel their emotional reserves wearing thin.
But what if hope was your most undervalued asset?
Enter the concept of a “hope budget”—a fresh, metaphorical approach to protecting your mental wellbeing in business.
What Is Mental Wealth—and Why Does It Matter?
Mental wealth refers to your emotional resilience, clarity, and ability to face challenges with a solutions-focused mindset. In business, it’s your golden reserve—what keeps you steady when stress hits and plans go sideways.
According to Beyond Blue, one in five Australians experience symptoms of mental illness each year. Business owners, especially sole traders, often experience additional risk factors including long hours, isolation, and financial pressure.
Protecting your mental wealth isn’t just good sense—it’s a strategic investment in your business future.
The Hope Budget: A Metaphor for Emotional Cash Flow
Like money, emotional resources are limited. A “hope budget” is a metaphorical way of thinking about how much negativity you can handle before your mental wellbeing starts to decline. It’s about consciously managing your exposure to stress, especially from negative news and social media.
Spending too much time immersed in distressing content can trigger real psychological stress. In 2017, therapist Dr. Steven Stosny coined the term headline stress disorder to describe heightened anxiety from constant news exposure. Though not a clinical diagnosis, the term reflects a growing reality for many.
A 2022 Reuters Institute study found 36% of people avoid news because it harms their mood, and 16% because it makes them feel powerless.
The goal isn’t to ignore the world—but to stay engaged in a healthy, sustainable way.
Gold Standard Tips to Build Your Mental Wealth
1. Audit Your Emotional Spending
Too much bad news? Time for a reality check. Set daily time limits for news consumption and avoid scrolling before bed. Choose sources that include solutions-focused stories.
🧠 Tip: Follow outlets practising “constructive journalism”—reporting that highlights how problems are being tackled, not just the chaos.
2. Diversify Your Input
Just like diversifying financial investments, consuming a broader range of media builds mental resilience. Include good news—from community wins to medical breakthroughs—to balance out the gloom.
🗞 Try keeping a “gold ledger” where you note stories of progress and hope. It works like interest on your emotional bank account.
3. Take Action—Even Small Steps Matter
Hope without action is like gold locked in a vault. Whether it’s helping a neighbour, joining a local cause, or donating to charity, your effort counts.
Studies show helping others improves both mental and physical wellbeing. It creates a sense of agency that can break the cycle of helplessness.
4. Protect Your Mental Boundaries
Set clear limits on media consumption. Curate your social feed to reduce toxic content. Prioritise offline time and real-world conversations with hopeful, solutions-oriented people.
Apps like Headspace or Smiling Mind offer guided mindfulness and breathing exercises—helpful tools to reset your stress levels.
Despair Is Dangerous for Business
When business owners lose hope, it impacts decision-making, leadership, and team morale. Emotional burnout leads to missed opportunities and declining productivity. Worse, it can erode the very motivation that drove you to start your business.
But hope is powerful fuel. It fosters resilience, creativity, and long-term vision.
Think of it as mental superannuation—invest early and wisely, and the returns compound.
Want to Build Your Mental Wealth? We Can Help
At DJ Grigg Financial, we understand that running a business is about more than the numbers. It’s about people—and protecting the people behind the business is just good business sense.
Let’s talk. Contact us today to find support that understands both your business and your wellbeing.
