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.
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:
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.
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:
But remember—buying raffle tickets or auction items doesn’t count. Only genuine donations without material benefits are deductible. More on DGR rules
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
With many Australians working remotely, it’s important to know the correct rules. As of 2024–25, the ATO recognises two valid methods:
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.
You can only claim rental property expenses when the property is genuinely available for rent. The ATO is cracking down on claims for:
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:
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.
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.