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2026 Year-End Tax Planning Guide – Part 2
Following on from Tax Planning Part 1. As the end of the financial year approaches, now is the ideal time to review your financial position.
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Superannuation Tax Planning Opportunities
Superannuation remains one of the most tax-effective ways to build long-term wealth and reduce taxable income. As 30 June approaches, it’s worth reviewing the strategies available to maximize your super benefits.
Concessional Contributions Cap – $30,000
For the 2025/26 financial year, the concessional (tax-deductible) contribution cap is $30,000 per person, regardless of age.
Concessional contributions include:
- Employer Super Guarantee contributions
- Salary sacrifice amounts
- Personal deductible super contributions
If you have not fully used your annual cap, you may wish to consider making additional deductible contributions before 30 June 2026, subject to eligibility.
One of the key benefits is the lower tax rate applying to super contributions — generally 15% (or up to 30% for high-income earners) compared with marginal personal tax rates that can exceed 45% plus Medicare levy.
This strategy is commonly used by:
- self-employed individuals;
- investors earning passive income; and
- employees looking to increase retirement savings tax-effectively.
Carry-Forward Concessional Contributions
If your total super balance was below $500,000 at 30 June 2025, you may be eligible to carry forward unused concessional contribution caps from the previous five financial years.
Unused cap amounts can accumulate for up to five years before expiring.
This strategy can be particularly useful for individuals with:
- fluctuating income;
- one-off capital gains; or
- higher-than-usual taxable income in a particular year.
Non-Concessional Contributions
Eligible individuals may also consider making non-concessional (after-tax) contributions.
Contribution limits for 2025/26 are:
- up to $120,000 annually; or
- up to $360,000 under the bring-forward rule over three years.
Eligibility rules apply, so professional advice is recommended before making large contributions.
Government Super Co-Contribution
Low and middle-income earners may qualify for a Government co-contribution when making personal after-tax super contributions.
For the 2025/26 financial year:
- maximum co-contribution available is $500;
- full entitlement generally applies where income is $44,500 or less; and
- partial entitlements may apply for incomes up to $60,400.
To receive the maximum benefit:
- at least $1,000 of non-concessional contributions must be made;
- at least 10% of income must come from employment or business activities; and
- total super balance must remain below the applicable threshold.
You must also be under age 71 at 30 June 2026.
Transition to Retirement (TTR) Strategies
If you have reached your preservation age but are not ready to fully retire, a Transition to Retirement (TTR) strategy may allow you to reduce working hours while supplementing your income from super.
Preservation Ages
Date of Birth | Preservation Age
|
Before 1 July 1960 | 55 |
1 July 1960 – 30 June 1961 | 56 |
1 July 1961 – 30 June 1962 | 57 |
1 July 1962 – 30 June 1963 | 58 |
1 July 1963 – 30 June 1964 | 59 |
From 1 July 1964 | 60 |
Under a TTR strategy:
- you can continue working;
- continue making concessional contributions; and
- draw an income stream from super.
Minimum pension withdrawals generally start at 4% of the account balance, with a maximum annual withdrawal limit of 10%.
Tax Treatment
- Under age 60: withdrawals are taxed at marginal rates, with a 15% tax offset generally available.
- Age 60 and over: pension withdrawals are generally tax-free.
TTR strategies are commonly used to:
- reduce working hours gradually; or
- salary sacrifice into super while maintaining cash flow.
Account-Based Pensions
Individuals aged:
- 60 or over and retired; or
- 65 and over (whether working or not),
may benefit from commencing an account-based pension.
Key advantages include:
- tax-free pension withdrawals; and
- tax-free investment earnings within the pension phase (subject to transfer balance cap limits currently around $1.9 million).
Minimum annual pension payments apply based on age:
Age | Minimum Withdrawal |
Under 65 | 4% |
65–74 | 5% |
75–79 | 6% |
80–84 | 7% |
There is generally no maximum withdrawal limit for standard account-based pensions.
If you are considering starting a pension, contact your super fund or adviser for guidance.
Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs)
A Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) can offer greater control and flexibility over retirement savings and investment decisions, along with potential tax advantages.
However, SMSFs also involve:
- strict compliance obligations;
- ongoing administration responsibilities; and
- trustee duties under superannuation law.
An SMSF may suit individuals seeking greater investment control or more tailored retirement planning strategies, but they are not appropriate for everyone.
With year-end approaching, now is a good opportunity to review whether an SMSF could form part of your broader financial and tax planning strategy.
If you would like to explore SMSFs further, professional advice is strongly recommended.
Checklist: Other Year-End Tax Matters to Consider
Alongside tax planning opportunities, there are several important year-end obligations that should be reviewed before 30 June 2026.
Motor Vehicle Records
If you use a vehicle for work or business purposes, remember to:
- Record your odometer reading at 30 June 2026.
- Update or prepare a new logbook if your current one is more than five years old.
A valid logbook must cover a continuous 12-week period. If you begin keeping one before 30 June 2026, it can still be used to support your business-use percentage for the entire 2025/26 financial year.
Account-Based Pensions
If you are drawing an account-based pension, ensure the minimum annual pension payment has been withdrawn before 30 June 2026.
Current minimum withdrawal rates are:
- Under 65: 4%
- Age 65–74: 5%
- Age 75–79: 6%
- Age 80–84: 7%
Business Owners, Companies & Trusts
Superannuation Guarantee Contributions
Employer super contributions for the 2025/26 year are due by 28 July 2026. However, to claim a tax deduction in the 2025/26 financial year, contributions must be received by the super fund (or clearing house) by 30 June 2026.
Avoid leaving payments until the final days of June, as processing delays may impact your deduction.
Division 7A Loans
Business owners who have borrowed money from a private company should ensure minimum principal and interest repayments are made by 30 June 2026.
Loans made during the current year must either:
- be fully repaid; or
- be placed under a compliant loan agreement before the company tax return due date.
Failure to comply may result in the loan being treated as an unfranked dividend.
Trust Distribution Resolutions
Trustees of discretionary (family) trusts should ensure distribution resolutions are prepared and signed before 30 June 2026.
Without a valid resolution:
- default beneficiaries may become entitled to trust income; or
- undistributed income may be taxed at the highest marginal tax rate.
Stocktake Requirements
Businesses holding trading stock should prepare stocktake working papers as at 30 June 2026.
Payroll & STP Finalization
Review and reconcile payroll records for the year, including PAYG withholding obligations
Employers using Single Touch Payroll (STP) are generally no longer required to issue annual payment summaries once payroll information has been finalised through STP.
Key Changes From 1 July 2025
Super Guarantee Increase
The compulsory Superannuation Guarantee rate increased from 11.5% to 12% from 1 July 2025. This rate remains the same, 12%, for 2026-27.
Small Business Company Tax Rate
Base rate entities with aggregated turnover below $50 million continue to qualify for the 25% company tax rate for the 2026 financial year, provided:
- aggregated turnover is below $50 million; and
- no more than 80% of assessable income is passive income.
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Planning ahead before year-end can help avoid unnecessary tax issues and ensure you maximise available opportunities.
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Accounting & Bookkeeping
Modern business demands up to date accurate financial information.
We can take care of all your bookkeeping and accounting needs, including the preparation of your annual accounts and periodic management accounts for tax, business appraisal and planning purposes.
We can also assist with meeting your reporting requirements including Business Activity Statements, PAYG Withholding and Instalment Activity Statements.
We will discuss your requirements with you and provide you with tailored information and constructive advice on a regular basis.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Acquisitions & Mergers
Whether you are considering buying or selling a business, we are able to assist you in this transaction by providing experienced advice.
Each transaction is different and needs to be assessed on its individual merits. There are a number of accounting and taxation opportunities with these transactions and our experience can ensure you are maximising your benefits.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Budgeting
A good budget is a necessity in a good business plan. It is one of the best business tools we have, allowing us to set financial targets and measure our performance.
In addition to goal setting value, budgets will often improve your chances of acquiring funding. Financers often require budgets as a prerequisite for funding approval.
We have extensive experience with assisting clients in the budgeting process.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Business Start-Ups
Before commencing a new business, the following are some of the key items that need to be considered:
- Decide on the most suitable structure for your business – sole trader, partnership, trust or company
- Prepare a business plan, cashflow projections, budgets, and trading forecasts
- Assess your finance requirements, advise on the best sources of finance, and draw up the necessary proposals
- Establish a good working relationship with your bank
- Register for a Tax File Number and an Australian Business Number with the ATO
- Complete registration procedures with Australian Securities and Investments Commission
- Deal with company secretarial issues
- Set up a recording system for your internal use and for complying with statutory requirements
Each new business is different and needs to be considered in relation to your individual circumstances and our experience can ensure you are maximising your opportunities.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Charitable Institutions
Charitable institutions are set up to hold money or assets and carry out activities for the benefit of the community. In Australia, a variety of charitable institutions exist including:
- Various forms of charitable trusts
- Companies limited by guarantee
- Unincorporated associations
- Deductible gift recipients
- Prescribed private fund
Each type of charitable institution brings with it different requirements and benefits. We know the practicalities of these institutions and are able to assist you by:
- Co-ordinating the preparation of constituent documents
- Applying to the ATO for an Australian Business Number and Tax File Number
- Organising tax exemptions where applicable
- Attending to all compliance and statutory filings
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Company Secretary
Company legislation requires businesses to perform many administration tasks which take up a lot of valuable company time.
We are able to assist you in the following areas:
- General advice on company law
- Company formations
- Filing of annual returns on your behalf
- Preparation of all documentation related to minutes and resolutions
- Maintenance of statutory books
- Assistance in changes of directors, shareholders, addresses, and office details
- Bonus Issues
- Share transfers
- Registered Office Facility
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Financial Structures
Having the right financial structure in place for your business or your family means looking at your individual circumstances and ensuring that your assets are being maximised whilst being adequately protected.
We have extensive experience in ensuring our clients have the best financial structure for their needs both now and in the future. We can provide advice on and assist with:
- Effective structures for asset protection
- Effective structures for tax minimisation
- The optimal structure through which to operate your business
- Structures to assist in succession planning and providing for future generations
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
GST
Every transaction has GST implications. We have experience with these issues and are able to offer expert advice on the implications of GST for your business. The GST related services we offer include:
- Assistance with registering for GST
- Filing and adjusting GST returns
- ATO audit assistance
- Advice on GST related issues
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Management Consulting
We are practiced in acting as a sounding board for management, bringing to the relationship years of experience in business growth and analysis.
We are able to check that your business is as competitive, focused, and profitable as it can be and we will work with you to address any issues.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Payroll Services
We can provide a comprehensive and confidential payroll service including:
- Administration of PAYG Withholding, statutory sick pay, annual leave etc
- Australian Taxation Office filing
- Summaries and analyses of staff costs
- Administration of incentive schemes, bonuses and termination payments
- Assistance with payroll tax and workers compensation obligations
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Rental Properties
We can assist in a variety of areas in relation to residential and commercial property including:
- Advice on funding
- Cash flow analysis of property investment
- Guidance in tax related areas including negative gearing and capital gains tax
- Advice on ownership structure
- Preparation of initial land tax returns and land tax variation returns
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Clients of Wybenga & Partners Pty Limited can engage our partner firm, Washington Brown, for a competitive price on their depreciation services: Tax Depreciation Quote Request – Wybenga & Partners Pty Limited Clients
Strategic Planning & Advice
Our Strategic Planning Service is designed to assist our clients to develop financially towards the achievement of their lifetime objectives. Our experience and proven results provide our clients with the security that their financial goals will be met.
Wybenga Financial Pty Ltd is an organisation providing wealth creation and management services to private clients.
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Superannuation
Self-managed superannuation is a flexible means of saving for retirement. It allows you to take control of your superannuation, adopt a customized investment strategy and control fund administration costs.
Superannution law is a delicate area and personalised planning is required for each individual. We have extensive experience in all areas relating to superannuation and can assist in establishing a superannuation fund that will effectively allow you to reach your financial retirement goals.
Services we offer include:
- Establishment of Self Managed Superannuation Funds
- Advice concerning Compliance Matters
- Advice concerning Taxation Benefits
- Advice on Employer obligations
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Taxation
We offer a complete range of taxation services and advice based on proven knowledge and experience. Our proactive approach ensures we deliver a consistent service and build solid relationships.
We will work with you to help reduce your tax exposure and provide services including:
- Advice on all areas of direct and indirect taxation
- Preparation and lodgement of annual income tax returns for all types of entities
- Preparation of PAYG withholding variation applications
- Preparation of activity statements and advice on payment of tax
- Assistance with GST/FBT obligations including preparation and lodgement of relevant forms
- Advice on and implementation of tax effective trust structures for asset protection and tax minimisation
- Management of any ATO audits or disputes
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Trusts
A trust provides a valuable way of protecting the assets you have accumulated for the benefit of yourself and others. A trust can also be an effective structure for running your business.
We have extensive experience with trusts and are able to offer specialist advice on establishment and compliance, ensuring that all statutory requirements are met.
Wybenga & Partners are able to organise for the preparation and execution of documentation involved in Trust formation.
Our Trust administration service includes:
- Minute keeping service
- Annual accounts
- Taxation
- Maintenance of CGT register
- Income distribution
If you would like further information you can contact us on (02) 9300 3000 or .
Chris Wybenga
B.Bus, CA
Chris is the Managing Director of the Firm who established the practice in August 1994 and has been responsible for its growth and development since that time.
Chris has over 40-years experience in the Chartered Accountancy profession, predominantly spent in small to medium sized firms, advising small and medium sized businesses and individuals in areas such as taxation and accounting as well as business restructuring and superannuation advice.
Chris remains active in the development of young accountants through mentoring cadets at the Firm.
- 1980 – Commenced employment and part time university studies
- 1985 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from University of Technology, Sydney
- 1986 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
- 1994 – Established Wybenga & Partners
Dianne Bechara
B.Bus, CA
Dianne is responsible for the day-to-day operations and administration of the practice.
Dianne has over 30-years Chartered Accountancy experience and has significant expertise in providing advice and solutions to high-net-worth individuals and their associated entities. Dianne also has considerable knowledge in the areas of taxation, business services, superannuation, and compliance.
Dianne is active in promoting gender equality in the industry through various programs and mentoring opportunities. Dianne is also committed to the development of young accountants and donates considerable time to sharing her expertise.
- 1992 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from University of Technology, Sydney
- 1993 – Commenced employment in acounting profession
- 1996 – Commenced career with Wybenga & Partners
- 1997 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
- 2002 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners
Roger Potter
B.Bus, CA
Roger has over 40-years in the Chartered Accountancy profession and significant expertise in providing advice and solutions to small and medium sized businesses and high-net-worth individuals. He also has extensive experience in the areas of Self-Managed Superannuation Funds and retirement strategies.
- 1985 – Commenced employment and part time university studies
- 1990 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from University of Technology, Sydney
- 1992 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
- 1998 – Commenced career with Wybenga & Partners
- 2002 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners
Tess Uncle
B.Sc, M.Com, CA
Tess has been working in Chartered Accounting Firms since 2001 and in this time has had a broad range of experience in superannuation, taxation, business services and financial strategy.
Since 2016, Tess has turned her attention to Financial Planning, earning a Diploma of Financial Planning in 2015 and leading the financial division of Wybenga Group as a Director of Wybenga Financial.
Tess’s mission is to bring the ethics and integrity of her Chartered Accounting background to the area of wealth management.
As a woman in a male dominated field, Tess is active in promoting gender equality in the industry through various programs and mentoring opportunities.
Using her depth of knowledge and experience in tax and accounting Tess is able to demonstrate a level of competence that is unique in the Financial Planning sector.
- 2001 – Commenced employment with Wybenga & Partners and part-time accountancy studies
- 2004 – Graduated Masters of Commerce from the University of New South Wales
- 2005 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
- 2007 – Promoted to Manager at Wybenga & Partners
- 2012 – Appointed as Associate Director
- 2015 – Awarded a Diploma in Financial Planning
- 2016 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners Pty Ltd, Wybenga Group Pty Limited and Wybenga Financial Pty Ltd
Schedule a Meeting with Tess
Adam Roberts
B.Bus, B.Sc, CA
Adam has over 18-years experience in Chartered Firms and in this time has had a broad range of experience in superannuation, taxation, and business services. In particular, Adam has had significant experience in MYOB and assisting clients with periodic management reporting.
Adam is responsible for the implementation of technology in the Firm and sourcing new areas of innovation and efficiency.
Adam is active in the development of young accountants and donates considerable time to sharing his expertise.
- 2005 – Commenced employment with Wybenga & Partners and part-time Accountancy Studies
- 2005 – Graduated Bachelor of Science from the University of Western Sydney
- 2007 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from the University of Western Sydney
- 2010 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants Australia & New Zealand
- 2010 – Promoted to Manager at Wybenga & Partners
- 2012 – Appointed as Associate Director
- 2016 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners
Schedule a Meeting with Adam
Hussein Oubani
B.Bus, CA
Hussein brings over 20 years of experience working in Chartered Accounting Firms, during which he has gained extensive expertise in taxation and business services. He provides advice on various tax issues, including capital gains tax, fringe benefits tax, goods and services tax, and Australia’s tax treaties.
Hussein is dedicated to fostering the growth of young accountants and generously devotes a significant amount of time to sharing his knowledge and expertise.
- 2008 – Commenced employment with Wybenga & Partners and part-time
Accountancy Studies - 2010 – Graduated Bachelor of Business from the University of Western Sydney
- 2012 – Admitted as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants
Australia & New Zealand - 2024 – Appointed as Director of Wybenga & Partners