In this episode of Taxvibe, host Robyn Jacobson speaks with Ruth Owen, the Tax Ombudsman, about her role and the importance of effective communication in the Australian tax system. They discuss the functions of the Tax Ombudsman, the challenges faced by taxpayers and tax agents, and the need for systemic improvements in tax administration. Ruth shares insights from her recent review of ATO communication practices and outlines recommendations for enhancing clarity and accessibility. The conversation emphasises the importance of collaboration between the ATO, tax agents, and the community to ensure a fair and efficient tax system.

For more information about The Tax Institute: https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/

In this episode of TaxVibe, host Robyn Jacobson speaks with Rob Thompson from the ATO about the critical period of Tax Time in Australia. They discuss the importance of getting tax returns right, common mistakes taxpayers make, and the various deductions available. The conversation covers key dates, the importance of good record keeping, and the ATO’s resources to assist taxpayers. They also touch on the implications of multiple income sources, the responsibilities of rental property owners, and the importance of cybersecurity in tax matters. The episode concludes with practical advice for both taxpayers and tax professionals.

For more information about The Tax Institute: https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/

In this bonus episode of TaxVibe, a snippet of our member-only webinar, you'll hear presenters Robyn Jacobson, CTA, and Svetlana Kolyasnikova, CTA, cover some of the hot tax topics to be aware of as we near the end of the financial year. This episode covers insights into:

• Key 2025 Budget & election dates
• Personal income tax cuts & work-related expenses 
• Car expenses 
• Clothing expenses
• Self-education expenses
• Working from home expenses

To see the full webinar and access other member-only insights and resources, become a member of The Tax Institute. https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/membership 

For more information about The Tax Institute: https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/

In this latest episode of TaxVibe, Paul Hockridge, CTA, principal of Hockridge Advisory, delves into the tax implications following divorce and separations – an intrinsic and unavoidable part of modern living in relationships.

While many assume the CGT roll-over makes divorce tax matters straightforward, the reality is far more complex. Tax practitioners often need specialised knowledge when advising clients through relationship breakdowns, considering both immediate tax relief options and long-term implications. 

 The episode covers:  

• Relief under Subdivision 126-A of the ITAA 1997: Provides CGT roll-over relief in certain circumstances,  but doesn’t apply universally 
• De facto vs. marriage: Different legal treatments affecting tax outcomes 
• Property settlements: Tax implications beyond simple asset transfers.

Host: Robyn Jacobson, CTA

Guest: Paul Hockridge, CTA, Hockridge Advisory

For more information about The Tax Institute: https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/

Robyn Jacobson, CTA, chats with Anthony Marvello, Assistant Commissioner, Client Engagement Group, ATO, about the enduring and evolving challenges of Division 7A. They unpack the ATO’s increased scrutiny, common fundamental errors being made and the importance of proactive advice. Learn about complying loans, the use of journal entries to make loan repayments, the Commissioner’s discretion to disregard a deemed dividend, and key tips for navigating Division 7A compliance. Recorded live at The Tax Summit 2024.

Host: Robyn Jacobson, CTA
Guest: Anthony Marvello, Assistant Commissioner, Client Engagement Group, ATO

For more information about The Tax Institute: https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/

You won't want to miss this bonus episode, where you'll get a sneak peek behind the closed doors of this week's member-only webinar: Federal Budget 2025–26 Reflections & Insights.

In the webinar, Robyn Jacobson, CTA, facilitates a panel of experts:

• Tim Sandow, CTA, Tax Partner, BDO & President, The Tax Institute
• Julie Abdalla, FTI, Head of Tax & Legal, The Tax Institute
• Jonathon Ortner, FTI, Tax Partner, Arnold Bloch Leibler
• Scott Treatt, CTA, CEO, The Tax Institute

You'll hear the first 20 minutes of the webinar, plus a bonus snippet of the discussion where they summarise the issues covered in an earlier #Bendel webinar – nothing but the topical content you want to hear!

They discuss the commercial and practical implications and considerations of the Budget’s key tax and superannuation measures. 

For a deeper dive into what the Budget means for you and your clients, and to access other member-only insights and resources, including the Federal Budget 2025-26 report, become a member of The Tax Institute. Learn more: https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/membership/benefits

For more information about The Tax Institute: https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/

For the past 16 years, the question of whether an unpaid present entitlement (UPE) is a loan for Division 7A purposes has challenged the tax profession. Now, in a landmark ruling, the Full Federal Court has delivered its judgment in Commissioner of Taxation v Bendel [2025] FCAFC 15 (Bendel) – confirming that a corporate beneficiary’s UPE is not a loan for Division 7A purposes. This finding has significant implications for taxpayers, tax practitioners and the ATO.

Following the decision, this latest episode of TaxVibe delves into the details, exploring the implications. Robyn Jacobson and guest Neil Brydges, CTA, Principal at Sladen Legal, discuss the potential for further legal challenges and legislative changes, and how tax practitioners may navigate the resulting uncertainty.

And we'll continue the conversation with an expert panel at our member-only webinar on 25 March – members can head to our website to register! https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/events/member-webinars/2024-25-member-webinar-series

For more information about The Tax Institute: https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/

This episode of TaxVibe dives deep with Paul Banister, CTA, as we uncover the risks associated with new client relationships. Learn how to spot red flags, mitigate risks, and navigate the complexities of past tax blunders. This episode is a must-listen for any tax professional looking to protect their practice. 

 Robyn and Paul cover:  

• Taking on a new client 
• Practical examples of common risks 
• What should a practitioner do if they find an error? 

 Host: Robyn Jacobson, CTA 

Guest: Paul Banister, CTA, Grant Thornton Australia 

For more information about The Tax Institute: https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/

In this episode of TaxVibe, Robyn chats with Tim Sandow, CTA, Tax Partner, BDO, and Julie Abdalla, FTI, Head of Tax & Legal at The Tax Institute with their reflections on the hits and misses of 2024 and their expectations for 2025 on matters of tax policy and administration. 

They cover:  

• Reflections of 2024, including TASA, IAWO, and more! 
• As The Tax Institute’s President for 2025, Tim’s focuses for the year 
• The Tax Institute’s Tax Policy and Advocacy priorities in 2025 
• ABUMs – announced but unenacted measures 
• Upcoming budget and election 

 Host: Robyn Jacobson, CTA 

Guests: Tim Sandow, CTA, Tax Partner, BDO, and Julie Abdalla, FTI, Head of Tax & Legal, The Tax Institute 

For more information about The Tax Institute: https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/

In this episode of TaxVibe, Robyn chats with David Montani, CTA, National Tax Director, about the exciting release of his upcoming book, Tax Wars – an insightful look at the need for, and the challenges facing, holistic tax reform in Australia.

They cover:

• The reason for the title of the book, Tax Wars
• The approach of using pop culture references to explain complex tax concepts
• The timing of the book's release relative to the upcoming Federal election
• Whether or not the book will challenge long-term thinking around tax reform

No spoilers included!

Host: Robyn Jacobson, CTA

Guest: David Montani, CTA, National Tax Director

For more information about The Tax Institute: https://www.taxinstitute.com.au/