Ongoing changes are constantly made to superannuation and tax laws, which demonstrates the importance and benefits of having an up to date SMSF deed. Each year on 1 July, our Annual Update Service subscribers are provided with the latest version of DBA Lawyers governing rules which incorporates all relevant legal changes including superannuation law, case [read more]
When discussing contribution strategies with clients, advisers should be mindful not to present contribution reserving as a straightforward exercise, as there are a number of practical issues and potential risks that should be carefully considered before proceeding with a contribution reserving strategy. This article discusses some of the common hurdles and risks to assist in [read more]
Introduction There are a considerable number of SMSFs that invest in private unit trusts. These unit trusts may include pre-99 unit trusts, unrelated unit trusts and non-geared unit trusts (under div 13.3A of the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Regulations 1994 (Cth) (SISR)). The ATO’s draft Law Companion Ruling 2019/D3 (Draft LCR) outlines, among other things, the [read more]
Overview Broadly, SMSF trustees may assume that, in any related party dealing, NALI will apply unless they can prove otherwise given the ATO may issue an assessment and place the burden on the SMSF trustee to prove that it is excessive. One key criticism of the draft Law Companion Ruling 2019/D3 (the draft LCR) is [read more]
What is PCG 2016/5? Advisers would be well aware of the ATO’s ‘safe harbour’ regarding the application of non-arm’s length income (NALI) to related party limited recourse borrowing arrangements (LRBAs). Broadly, the ATO’s Practical Compliance Guideline PCG 2016/5 (Guideline) sets out ‘safe harbour’ terms on which SMSF trustees may structure their LRBAs which the ATO [read more]
Overview When dealing with limited recourse borrowing arrangements (LRBAs), it is important to understand the consequences that may arise where the LRBA is not implemented and maintained on a proper basis. This is especially so in the case of a self managed superannuation fund (SMSF) undertaking a related party LRBA. The terms and conditions of [read more]
Introduction The proportioning rule is used to calculate the tax free and taxable components of a superannuation benefit. Having a sound understanding of this rule is key to many super strategies. Overview –– proportioning rule The proportioning rule provides that the tax free and taxable components of a superannuation benefit are taken to be paid [read more]
While DBA is recognised as Australia’s leading SMSF law firm, it is also well known for it’s great depth of tax and trusts expertise. DBA Lawyers offers an excellent discretionary trust deed that is easy to read, provides great flexibility and reflects the latest legislative changes. Also included is a detailed memo, trustee resolutions, covering [read more]
Downsizer contributions for the right person or couple can be very strategic. Yet not many are aware of the key rules that can unlock the potential that the downsizer strategy offers. Broadly, downsizer contributions allow those 65 or over to sell or dispose or an ownership interest in their main residence and make up to [read more]
Introduction The ATO recently published Law Administration Practice Statement PS LA 2020/3 to guide ATO staff on how to apply administrative penalties. This provides the methodology on how ATO case officers make determinations on imposing and remitting penalties for contraventions under s 166 of the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (Cth) (‘SISA’). The ATO’s view is [read more]
