News

In the complex landscape of Australian property and business investment, the ability to manage cash flow effectively is often what separates a successful portfolio from a stagnant one. As we navigate the 2025–2026 financial year, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) continues to refine its expectations and rulings, making it more critical than ever for property owners to understand how to maximise their depreciation deductions.

As we navigate the 2025–26 financial year, the Australian property landscape continues to evolve. For the modern investor or business owner, one of the most powerful yet frequently misunderstood levers for financial optimisation is the concept of depreciation. To put it simply for those asking, what is capital allowance? It is the professional recognition that assets wear out, and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows you to claim that wear and tear as a significant tax deduction.  In this guide, we will delve into the technicalities of the Uniform Capital Allowance (UCA) system, the specific incentives, and how a professional depreciation schedule is the key to maximising your taxable income efficiency.

At what point in a high‑level boardroom discussion does it become clear that a foundational governance element hasn’t yet been formalised? Recently, while working with the senior leadership team of a large Australian organisation, led by highly experienced directors and a technically strong finance function, a useful realisation emerged during a broader governance discussion. Despite solid reporting and oversight in many areas, the organisation didn't yet have a formal, risk register in place.

Australia’s retail landscape has been quietly but decisively changing. Over the past decade, shifts in consumer behaviour, the rise of e commerce and evolving lifestyle preferences have transformed not just how we shop, but where and why we do it. These changes are now flowing directly through to commercial property markets across the country.

The Albanese Government’s approach to infrastructure funding ahead of the May 2026 Federal Budget is becoming increasingly clear: delivery over expansion, discipline over ambition. In a recent interview on ABC Radio National Breakfast, Finance Minister Katy Gallagher described the upcoming budget as “challenging,” pointing to persistent inflation pressures, global instability, and the need to align policy with the Reserve Bank’s increasing rates.

Buying property with an SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund) has become a cornerstone strategy for Australians seeking greater control over their retirement savings. Unlike retail or industry super funds, where your capital is pooled and managed by third parties, an SMSF allows you to act as the driver of your own investment vehicle. However, while the appeal of using an SMSF to buy property is significant, it’s a path paved with strict legislative requirements and rigorous compliance standards.

While property valuations typically occur upon completion, Acumentis is frequently engaged to assess the value of units and dwellings while they are still under construction. This requirement often arises during long-term development cycles—which can span several years—particularly when life events such as legal separations necessitate a valuation before the project is finished. The following overview outlines our professional methodology for assessing "as-if-complete" values in a fluctuating market.

Canberra’s property market continues to evolve, shaped by significant Commonwealth investment and changing patterns in government accommodation. Recent developments highlight a clear shift toward modern, purpose‑built precincts, alongside growing challenges for older commercial areas, particularly Civic. Below is a snapshot of the key movements shaping the Canberra market and their implications for government agencies and the broader commercial landscape.