In this edition of BK Pod, Peter and Kerrie discuss Ordinary Time Earnings (OTE). The Payday Super (PDS) legislation also introduces an adjacent term, Qualifying Earnings (QE), that, together with OTE, will drive key elements of PDS. That means a very clear working knowledge of OTE becomes essential. Interpretive material on the ATO website has been enhanced to assist in this improved understanding, particularly in areas such as allowances, leave, and terminations. 

The second half of the podcast previews the Build, Grow, Succeed Roadshow, taking place in five cities this October. The event delivers practical, non-software content for bookkeepers, including sessions on succession planning, compliance updates, and business growth strategies. Dale Dixon highlights MYOB’s support of the event, emphasising its educational focus. A live panel session, interactive learning, and CPD hours make the roadshow a valuable development opportunity, alongside networking with fellow professionals.

Key Takeaways

• OTE explanatory material now updated: better and clearer explanations and examples regarding ‘all things OTE’ now available on the ATO website. 
• Bookkeepers must be well versed in OTE inclusions & exclusions in order to properly deal with the Pay Day Super regime. 
• The Build, Grow, Succeed Roadshow runs across five cities in October, offering CPE and practical content tailored to bookkeepers.
• Sessions include succession planning, compliance updates, Scaling Sharp, and a live Q&A panel—with a focus on learning, not software demos.

In this edition of BK Pod, Peter and Kerrie provide an update on the confirmed closure of the SBSCH, which will occur at midnight on 30 June 2026, regardless of Payday Super legislation timing. With over 250,000 employers needing to transition to a new Clearing House, bookkeepers will play a crucial role in educating clients, offering advice, and in some cases, implementing new solutions. The focus now is communication, with the ATO expected to ramp up messaging in the lead-up to the shutdown.

The second half of the podcast previews the Build, Grow, Succeed Roadshow, taking place in five cities this October. The event delivers practical, non-software content for bookkeepers, including sessions on succession planning, compliance updates, and business growth strategies. Dale Dixon highlights MYOB’s support of the event, emphasising its educational focus. A live panel session, interactive learning, and CPD hours make the roadshow a valuable development opportunity, alongside networking with fellow professionals.

Key Takeaways

• SBSCH will shut down on 30 June 2026; bookkeepers should prepare clients now by identifying users and helping transition to a new Clearing House.
• Bookkeepers may be called on to advise on or implement CH solutions depending on client needs and engagement.
• The Build, Grow, Succeed Roadshow runs across five cities in October, offering CPE and practical content tailored to bookkeepers.
• Sessions include succession planning, compliance updates, Scaling Sharp, and a live Q&A panel—with a focus on learning, not software demos.

STP Finalisation & GIC Remission Reform: Two Critical Topics for Bookkeepers
In this edition of BK Pod, Pete, Kelvin, and Kellie cover two key issues that every BAS Agent and bookkeeper should have on their radar as EOFY wraps up and a new financial year begins.

First, Pete and Kellie discuss GIC remission reform, with an update on the ATO’s planned changes to how General Interest Charge remission requests are processed. From inconsistent outcomes to long wait times, the current system is causing real headaches for agents and clients alike—but help is on the horizon.

Then, Kelvin tackles a common year-end dilemma: can you finalise Single Touch Payroll (STP) when wages haven’t actually been paid yet? Drawing from a real-world helpline query, he unpacks how the rules differ depending on whether the worker is a director or a standard employee—and what to do in each case to stay compliant.

Key Takeaways:

• Unpaid director wages can still be finalised through STP if they’re redirected to a loan account—this counts as a “constructive payment” under tax law.
• Closely held payees (like directors) get extra time—you have until 30 September to finalise STP for them.
• Arms-length employees must be paid before 30 June for wages to be included in that year’s STP report—otherwise, it rolls into the new year.
• GIC and SIC are no longer tax-deductible from 1 July 2025, making late payments significantly more costly.
• The ATO is overhauling the GIC remission process, with interim improvements coming and full practitioner consultation expected later in 2025.
• BAS Agents are seeking clearer rules, faster turnaround, and fairer outcomes, especially for small remissions that shouldn’t be a burden to claim.

If you’re dealing with June and July payrolls—or preparing to lodge GIC remissions—this double-topic episode is packed with practical insight, legislative detail, and a look ahead at important reforms on the horizon.

Professional Conduct, GIC & PAYG: What Bookkeepers Need to Know

In this episode of BK Pod, Kellie, Pete, and Kelvin unpack two critical updates every BAS Agent and bookkeeper needs to know. First, Pete and Kellie discuss the big shift in how the ATO is treating General Interest Charges (GIC) and Shortfall Interest Charges (SIC). From 1 July 2025, GIC and SIC are no longer tax-deductible, making late payments a much more expensive risk—around credit card interest rates. The team shares why remission requests are now far less likely to succeed and outlines practical steps bookkeepers can take to help clients avoid unexpected GIC bills.

Key Takeaways:

• GIC and SIC are no longer tax-deductible as of 1 July 2025—late lodgments now carry serious cost risks.
• ATO remission practices have tightened: assume remissions are rare and build client processes accordingly.
• BAS Agents now have six new code obligations including record-keeping, QMS, and transparency with clients.
• Regular client education and internal planning are essential for both GIC risk management and code compliance.

Kelvin then runs through the six key changes to the Code of Professional Conduct for BAS Agents that also took effect from 1 July 2025. These changes cover everything from ethical standards and supervision requirements to quality management systems and client communication obligations. The team emphasizes why solo BAS agents and small practices need to update their processes now to stay compliant and protect their professional standing.

Darren talks about PAYG Instalment Variations in the latest episode of Getting Technical.  

If you want clear, practical tips on staying ahead of these changes, this is an episode not to miss!

QMS – TPB Perspective

In this episode of BKPod, Peter Thorp sits down with Deb Anderson from the Tax Practitioners Board to unpack one of the newest compliance obligations facing bookkeepers—Quality Management Systems (QMS). Now a requirement under Section 40 of the 2024 Code of Professional Conduct Determination, QMS is more than a buzzword—it's a practical system every BAS agent needs to understand.

Deb explains how the TPB has consulted widely with the profession to develop realistic, proportionate guidance for practices of all sizes. She breaks down what a QMS is, why it matters, and what bookkeepers can do to get started.

The conversation also explores key considerations, including:

• What the QMS requirement actually covers - and why it goes way beyond client work
• How existing checklists, templates, and client onboarding processes can form part of your QMS
• Why risk management and consistency are the heart of quality assurance
• What sole practitioners can do to comply without overcomplicating things

End of Financial Year Tips
As EOFY approaches, Kerrie Jarius shares practical tips to help bookkeepers squeeze 2 month’s work into one around EOFY. Managing deadlines, understanding deferrals, managing teams and clients as well as managing stress are all important. Peter & Kerrie also look at ATO & TPB changes that will affect the New Financial Year. There are immediate ATO impacts of GIC and SG changes as well as the TPB’s Code of Conduct changes including the QMS kick in from 1 July. 

Whether you’re a solo bookkeeper or part of a larger team, this episode offers some practical, jargon-free tips to negotiate the EOFY ‘workload crush’ and come out smiling. Use the EOFY as a springboard for stronger compliance and start FY 20026 on the right foot.

In this episode of BK Pod, Kellie Powell, Leanne Lewis and Darren Hagarty shine a spotlight on one of the most misunderstood areas in bookkeeping—accounting for travel expenses. As the end of financial year approaches, we unpack the nuances that bookkeepers need to understand when it comes to travel-related claims and entitlements.

They begin by clarifying the difference between a travel allowance and a living away from home allowance (LAFHA)—two similar-sounding concepts with very different tax treatments. Darren explains when a travel allowance is considered "reasonable" by the ATO and why this matters when substantiating claims.

The discussion also touches on broader travel-related issues, including:

• What qualifies as business travel (and how to prove it)
• When a travel diary is required
• How poor documentation can jeopardize tax-free treatment
• And why distinguishing between “travel” and “relocation” is essential

In this episode of BKPod, we’re tackling three urgent topics that every bookkeeper and BAS agent needs to have on their radar.

First up, Kelvin Deer joins us to unveil ABN’s upcoming QMS Intensive. With new TPB regulations requiring all BAS agents to maintain a documented Quality Management System (QMS), Kelvin explains what this means for bookkeepers—regardless of business size. He breaks down the seven key elements of a compliant QMS, why an Operations Manual alone isn’t enough, and how ABN’s new manual and intensive program will save you time, reduce compliance stress, and even contribute to your CPE hours.

Next, Peter Thorp and Kerrie Jarius dig into the ATO’s aggressive new stance on small business debt. From firmer recovery actions and warning letters to DPNs, garnishees, and wind-ups, the ATO is shifting gears post-pandemic—and bookkeepers are on the frontlines. Kerrie shares practical tips on managing tax debt, dealing with tighter payment plan rules, and educating clients on the rising cost of using the ATO as a ‘bank’, especially with GIC interest now non-deductible from 1 July 2025.

Finally, Darren Haggerty gives us a quick update on a major legislative change: from 1 July 2025, super will be paid on Government-funded paid parental leave. In this edition of “Getting Technical,” Darren outlines who’s eligible, how the new super payments will be calculated, and what this means for employers and reporting.

Whether you're building out your QMS, helping clients navigate ATO pressure, or staying ahead of legislative shifts, this episode is packed with must-know insights for bookkeepers. Tune in now! 🎧

In this episode of BKPod, we dive into three major changes affecting bookkeepers and BAS agents right now.

First, Kelvin Deer explores the growing role of AI in bookkeeping, from automating client education and content creation to streamlining reporting and admin tasks. Learn how AI tools can boost efficiency—without replacing human expertise.

Next, Peter Thorp and Kerrie Jarius break down the upcoming Payday Super changes, including the challenges of the new 7-day rule, cash flow concerns, and the impact on bookkeepers and their clients. With an election on the horizon, we discuss whether implementation delays are likely and what you should be doing now to prepare.

Finally, Darren Hagarty explains the latest STP Engagement Authority update, which allows businesses to provide a 12-month standing declaration for STP lodgements. Find out how this new rule simplifies compliance and what bookkeepers need to know before advising clients.

Whether you're looking to stay ahead of industry trends, refine your processes, or future-proof your business, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tune in now! 🎧

Episode Overview

Welcome to the first BKPod episode of 2025! In this episode, we dive into important industry updates for bookkeepers and BAS agents, including new legislative changes, compliance obligations, and key government proposals that could impact your clients.

Topics Covered

1. Updates from the ABN Team

• New Engagement Letter Template – Now updated for recent TASA changes. Make sure to review and implement before 1 July 2025.
• Refreshed Website & Member Centre – Includes an improved global search feature for easier navigation.
• Online Coffee Club Recap – Covers key updates on CPE requirements and the QMS system changes coming in July 2025.

2. Breach Reporting Obligations (with Kelvin Deer)

• Breakdown of new breach reporting rules under TASA, in effect from 1 July 2024.
• Who must report breaches and what qualifies as a “significant breach.”
• Timeframes and obligations – reports must be submitted within 30 days of awareness.
• Implications for BAS agents and failure to report.
• Practical tips: Record-keeping and compliance steps to stay on top of the new requirements.

3. Payday Super Update (with Peter Thorp)

• New seven-day rule requiring super contributions to be received by the employee’s fund within seven days of payday.
• Current issues with clearing house delays and processing times, making compliance difficult.
• The ATO’s increasing role in enforcing compliance through data-matching.
• Potential penalties for employers, even if they initiate payments on time.
• Advocacy efforts to push for a more practical implementation of the rule before it becomes law.

4. Changes to Tax Deductibility of ATO Interest (with Darren Hagarty)

• Government proposal to remove tax deductions for ATO interest charges (SIC & GIC) from 1 July 2025.
• Impact on businesses with ATO tax debt.
• Strategic steps bookkeepers can take to help clients manage their tax obligations ahead of the changes.

The BK Pod - Episode 7: Navigating QMS, Payday Super, and Novated Lease Challenges

Episode Summary

In this episode of The BK Pod, Kellie Powell and her guests tackle critical updates and challenges for bookkeepers as the year winds down. From the latest on the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB) Code of Conduct changes to the implications of Payday Super, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Special segments also delve into accounting for fully serviced novated leases, ensuring listeners leave with the tools and knowledge they need for the year ahead.

TPB Code of Conduct Changes (with Kelvin Deer)

Kelvin Deer, Director of ABN and ABA, provides an in-depth look at changes to the TPB Code of Conduct, effective July 1, 2025.

• Competency: The importance of maintaining knowledge, proper record-keeping, and preparing for minor adjustments.
• Quality Management Systems (QMS): Tailoring QMS practices to the size and scope of your business.
• Key Assurance: BAS agents have ample time to prepare, with ABN ready to provide tools and templates.

Payday Super Update (with Peter Thorp & Kerrie Jarius)

Peter and Kerrie break down the government's upcoming Payday Super initiative, slated for a 2026 rollout.

• Challenges:
  • Replacement of the Small Business Clearing House.
  • Seven-day payment obligations and compliance monitoring.
  • Cash flow and administrative strain on small businesses.
• Silver Linings: Improved super compliance, enhanced employee benefits, and new opportunities for bookkeepers to offer premium payroll services.

Accounting for Novated Leases (with Darren Hagarty)

Darren explores the complexities of fully serviced novated leases, offering a preview of the latest Bookkeepers Knowledge Base publication.

• Overview: Benefits for employers and employees and key steps in managing novated leases.
• Detailed Guidance: Step-by-step framework covering payroll deductions, GST, FBT, BAS implications, and adjustments.
• Case Study: Practical examples to simplify the accounting process.

Key Takeaways

• The TPB Code of Conduct changes require preparation but are manageable with ABN’s support.
• Payday Super introduces significant changes, but proactive planning can turn challenges into opportunities.
• Fully serviced novated leases are complex but offer a rewarding area for bookkeepers to provide value-added services.