Running a small business means keeping up with changes to tax, superannuation, workplace obligations and other regulatory requirements. A number of important changes have now commenced, while some others are scheduled to take effect in the future.

To help you keep on top of changes you need to know about now, we have developed a snapshot and some practical tips

Tips on what you should do now

  • Set reminders for key deadlines
  • Review your business processes and make sure they align with current requirements 
  • Check that payroll, accounting and business systems have been updated to reflect recent changes 
  • Talk to your accountant, bookkeeper or trusted business adviser if you are unsure how the changes affect your business
  • Stay informed about future reforms that may require action in the coming years.  

Federal Budget announcements 

Tax and business measures 

The instant asset write‑off is now permanent. For small businesses with an aggregated turnover of under $10m per annum, you will be able to immediately deduct assets under $20,000.  

Cash flow support is also expanding, with the loss carry back rules to be permanently reinstated, with eligible companies able to offset current losses against profits from the previous 2 years to offset past tax. 

Personal income tax changes will be reduced, with the previous 16% tax rate on taxable income between $18,201 and $45,000 to be 15%. This change will impact employers, employees and sole traders.  

Changes from 1 July 2026 

Payroll and superannuation 

Payday Super begins, with it now mandatory for super to be paid every payday, not quarterly. Super guarantee is calculated as 12% of an employee’s qualifying earnings, and super payments must be paid to an employees’ super fund on payday and received by the super fund within 7 business days. 

The new definition of ‘Qualifying Earnings’ kicks in, where super paid to an employee is calculated on a broader earnings base, that brings together ordinary time earnings, salary sacrifice contributions and other amounts that are currently included in an employee’s salary or wages for super guarantee. 

Mandatory real time reporting via Single Touch Payroll (STP) has commenced, with employers needing to report both the qualifying earnings and super liability every payday through STP.  

The Australian Taxation Office’s (ATO) Small Business Super Clearing House has now closed, with existing users to have transitioned to an alternative option to pay their employees’ super.  

The Super Guarantee is remaining at 12% (there is no increase) but will be applied under new rules.  

Employment and workplace 

The Fair Work Commission’s Annual Wage Review was handed down on 1 June 2026, with minimum wages increases now in effect. The decision affects the National Minimum Wage and minimum pay rates under the awards. Employers with employees getting paid the minimum wage will have had to update their payroll and recheck classification rates for any junior employees whose age has tipped them into a new bracket. 

The Australian Government funded Parental Leave Pay scheme is now fully rolled out and is being expanded to 26 weeks – up from 24 weeks. It will continue to be paid at the National Minimum Wage and is in addition to any employer-paid parental leave.  

Regulatory/compliance changes 

Tranche 2 of the Anti-Money Laundering/Counter Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) obligations have commenced, which applies to accountants, legal professions, conveyancers, real estate professions, and dealers in precious metals, stones and products. 

Small businesses working in these sectors require: 

  • AUSTRAC registration
  • a program of compliance with the AML/CTF reporting 
  • customer due diligence to make sure you are complying with obligations. 

The SMS Sender ID Register is now in effect, which means the way businesses and organisations send branded text messages has changed. Texts sent with an organisation’s name at the top of a message will now have to have the sender ID registered otherwise business messages may be deemed to be ‘unverified’, or a customer might think they are a scam.  

Australian hospitality businesses must label all dishes containing seafood with country-of-origin information using the AIM system – Australian (A), imported (I) or mixed (M). 

In line with an increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the March quarter, the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) is increasing business name and company fees.

IP Australia has changed their patent excess claims reminder notification to a 3‑month reminder period after an examination request is received. 

Businesses operating in affected sectors should review their compliance obligations and seek advice where necessary.

Business advisory services program delivery changes  

The Australian Government’s Digital Solutions program supports small businesses to adopt digital tools, grow their online presence, enhance cyber security, and thrive in the digital economy. The program has recommenced with a refreshed model. Providers are available across all regions to deliver tailored support to small businesses. 

Where to get help

You can also speak with your accountant, bookkeeper or trusted business adviser to understand what these changes mean for your business.