There have been some important changes to the Competition and Consumer (Industry Codes-Franchising) Regulations 2024. These changes will come into effect on 1 April 2025 and have the potential to impact the way franchises operate. As a result, it’s important that both franchisees and franchisors are aware of their new obligations and rights.

The recent VCAT decision of Caloutas as trustee for Caloutas Family Trust v Commissioner of State Revenue [2025] VCAT explored how bare or fixed trusts intersect with the Victoria land tax trust surcharge provisions.

In a Private Binding Ruling, the ATO determined that payment of a death benefit to a spouse’s estate is not tax-free under section 302-10(2) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997.

On 4 June 2024, the State Taxation Amendment Act 2024 (Act) received Royal Assent. The Act, amongst other significant taxation changes, amends the holiday home exemption by introducing new provisions to section 88A of the Land Tax Act 2005 (LTA).

The ‘executor’s year’ is the general principle that the personal representatives of an estate, be it the executors or administrators (in the case of an intestacy), have one year from the date of death of the person whose estate is being administered, to administer the estate.

The separation from a spouse (married or de-facto) is a critical time to review your Will, Enduring Power of Attorney and Appointment of Medical Treatment Decision Maker.