Tax and Compliance
Income Tax Returns
What it is
Income tax returns are the official lodgements made with the ATO to report your business or personal income and claim allowable deductions. For businesses, this includes company and trust returns; for individuals, this might also include rental properties, investments, or sole trader income. These returns ensure you’re paying the right amount of tax and meeting your legal obligations.
Why it’s important
Getting your tax return right means staying compliant, avoiding penalties, and potentially saving thousands in overpaid tax. But it’s not just about filling in a form – it’s about understanding what you can claim, how your income is structured, and how your choices throughout the year affect your final tax position. Many people overpay tax simply because they don’t know what they’re entitled to claim or they leave things to the last minute.
Why choose us
At ASA, we take the time to understand your whole financial picture. Whether you’re a wage earner with a rental property or a rural business with multiple entities, we make sure your tax return reflects your true position – legally and efficiently. We don’t rush it, and we don’t just push through cookie-cutter returns. You’ll get a return that’s carefully reviewed, optimised for your situation, and explained in clear terms. We’re approachable, thorough, and we’ll never leave you wondering what’s going on.
GST
What it is
Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a 10% tax added to most goods and services sold in Australia. If your business earns over $75,000 in turnover, you’re generally required to register for GST, charge it on your sales, and lodge regular Business Activity Statements (BAS) to report what you’ve collected and what you’ve paid.
Why it’s important
GST is one of the most commonly misunderstood taxes – and one of the easiest to get wrong. Mistakes can lead to underpayment, overpayment, or ATO penalties. Lodging your BAS accurately and on time keeps your business compliant and your cashflow healthy. Managing GST properly also helps you understand your real income, as GST is not your money – it’s collected on behalf of the government.
Why choose us
We simplify GST for you. ASA can handle your GST registrations, prepare and lodge your BAS, and ensure that everything is reconciled and accurate. We’re proactive – if something looks off, we’ll flag it and explain what’s going on. We work with Xero and other cloud systems to keep your records clear and up-to-date. Whether you’re new to GST or just tired of doing it yourself, we make sure it’s done right.
Payroll
What it is
Payroll is the process of paying your employees, including calculating wages, tax withholding (PAYG), superannuation, leave, and entitlements. It must comply with Australian tax and employment laws, and now must be reported to the ATO via Single Touch Payroll (STP).
Why it’s important
Incorrect payroll leads to more than just grumpy staff – it can result in legal penalties, back-pay claims, and unnecessary stress. Getting it right ensures your team is paid correctly and on time, your records are in order, and you stay on the right side of Fair Work and the ATO. It also gives employees confidence that their super and tax are handled properly.
Why choose us
We offer payroll support that fits your business – whether you have one employee or a team of 50. At ASA, we understand rural business needs, including seasonal or casual workers, and award interpretation. We can run your payroll for you or train your internal team, making sure everything is accurate and compliant. Our systems integrate with Xero and STP, and our people are always just a phone call away when something changes or you need help.
Superannuation and SMSF
What it is
Superannuation is the retirement savings system in Australia, and employers are required to pay a percentage of employee earnings into their chosen super fund. For individuals wanting greater control over their retirement savings, a Self-Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF) may be an option. SMSFs allow you to manage your own super investments, including property and shares.
Why it’s important
Super is often the largest asset people have outside their home, yet it’s often ignored. For employers, getting super wrong can mean penalties and upset staff. For individuals, not taking control of your super can mean missing out on thousands in future retirement income. If you’re considering an SMSF, proper setup and ongoing compliance are essential – the rules are strict, and mistakes can be costly.
Why choose us
ASA offers practical superannuation advice and support. We ensure employers meet their obligations – on time and with minimal fuss. For those with SMSFs, we provide full support from setup to ongoing administration, annual tax returns, and compliance reviews. We’re experts in rural superannuation strategies and understand how to use super effectively as part of your overall wealth plan. We keep it simple, compliant, and tailored to you.
Dealing with the ATO
What it is
Dealing with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is a reality for every business owner – whether it’s in relation to overdue lodgements, debt payment plans, audits, or general enquiries. These interactions can be complex and intimidating, especially if something has gone wrong.
Why it’s important
ATO matters don’t go away if ignored – and delaying action can make things worse. Whether it’s a tax debt, a missed BAS lodgement, or an ATO review or audit, it’s crucial to deal with it promptly and with the right information. A well-managed response can often reduce penalties, prevent legal action, and give you breathing space to get back on track.
Why choose us
We act as your representative with the ATO so you don’t have to handle the stress alone. ASA has years of experience in negotiating payment plans, responding to ATO reviews, fixing prior-year problems, and resolving tax debt issues. We’re calm, professional, and focused on solutions. We speak the ATO’s language and yours – and we’ll always keep you in the loop. Our rural clients often feel isolated when things go wrong. With us on your side, you’re supported every step of the way.
Primary Production tax
What it is
Primary production accounting is the specialised financial and tax management of farming and agricultural businesses. It includes things like livestock trading accounts, fodder storage deductions, farm management deposits, and seasonal cashflow planning. It also involves understanding land ownership, succession planning, and the implications of grants or environmental programs.
Why it’s important
Agribusiness isn’t like other businesses – and it shouldn’t be treated like one. It’s seasonal, capital intensive, and subject to unique risks. Tax law has specific concessions for primary producers, and missing out on them can mean lost opportunities. Likewise, understanding your cashflow cycles, machinery purchases, and succession options is critical for long-term sustainability.
Why choose us
We live and breathe rural business. ASA has been working with farmers, graziers, and agricultural operators for years – and we understand that it’s not just business, it’s your livelihood. We tailor our advice to your enterprise, whether you’re a small family operation or a large-scale producer. We know the rules, the rebates, and the reality on the ground. When you work with us, you’re not just getting accounting – you’re getting a partner who gets the land, the legacy, and the life.
