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Embracing the Bright Side: Finding Joy in Everyday Moments

Caroline Gillies • March 7, 2024

In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, forgetting to pause and appreciate the simple joys that surround us. But amidst the challenges and hardships, there is always a glimmer of light waiting to shine through the darkness. Today, let's embark on a journey to explore the uplifting and positive aspects of life, reminding ourselves of the beauty that exists in every moment.


Gratitude: A Key to Happiness


Gratitude is a powerful tool that can transform even the most mundane of days into something extraordinary. Take a moment each day to reflect on the things you're grateful for, whether it's the warmth of the sun on your face, the laughter of loved ones, or the beauty of nature. By shifting your focus to the blessings in your life, you'll find that joy naturally follows.


Embracing Imperfection


Life is messy, unpredictable, and imperfect – and that's what makes it beautiful. Instead of striving for perfection, embrace the flaws and quirks that make you unique. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and learn from your mistakes with grace and humility. Remember, it's okay to stumble along the way – it's all part of the journey.


Finding Joy in the Little Things


Happiness doesn't always come from grand gestures or monumental achievements. Often, it's the little things that bring the most joy – a kind word from a stranger, a hug from a friend, or a quiet moment spent watching the sunset. Pay attention to the small moments of beauty and wonder that pepper your day, and you'll find that happiness is never far away.


Spreading Kindness and Love


In a world that can sometimes feel cold and indifferent, kindness is like a ray of sunshine breaking through the clouds. Make it a priority to spread love and positivity wherever you go, whether it's through a simple act of kindness or a heartfelt compliment. By lifting others up, you'll find that you lift yourself up in the process.


Cultivating Inner Peace


True happiness comes from within, rooted in a sense of peace and contentment that transcends external circumstances. Take time each day to nourish your mind, body, and spirit – whether through meditation, mindfulness, or simply taking a walk in nature. Cultivate a sense of inner peace that will sustain you through life's ups and downs, allowing you to navigate challenges with grace and resilience.


Embrace the Journey


Life is a journey filled with twists and turns, highs and lows, but it's also a journey filled with beauty, wonder, and endless possibilities. By embracing the bright side of life, finding joy in everyday moments, and spreading love and kindness wherever we go, we can create a world that is a little brighter, a little kinder, and a little more beautiful for us all. So let's embark on this journey together, with open hearts and open minds, ready to embrace all that life has to offer.

Lifeblood of Your Business

By Caroline Gillies • February 9, 2025
 The metaphors we use when talking about money are both intriguing and revealing. When we overspend, we say we're "bleeding" cash; when it arrives out of the blue, it's "pennies from heaven." Money holds such importance in our lives, yet so many businesses seem to throw it around without a clear budget. Sticking to a budget is a fundamental aspect of financial health. It also signals to others that you're in control and on top of things. Keeping your business on budget doesn’t have to be a hassle—think of it as a creative challenge. If you're open to putting in the work and making some tough choices, sticking to a budget can be the best workout for your business mind. Do you know how to build a budget that keeps your business safe from financial troubles? We do, and we’re here to help you create a budget that works—and ensures you stick to it. If you need help with your budget give us a call today 4688 2500.

Clearance Certificates - Australian Residents

By Caroline Gillies • January 16, 2025
From 1 January 2025 all Australians selling property need a clearance certificate to prevent a portion of the sale price from being withheld. While it is understood that most lawyers are handling this process for their clients, it’s important for everyone involved to be aware of this requirement. Clearance certificates for Australian residents All Australian residents (for tax purposes) selling or disposing of Australian real property (property) must have a clearance certificate and give it to the purchaser at, or before settlement. Without a clearance certificate, the purchaser must withhold up to 15% of the sale (or market value if not sold at arm's length) for foreign resident capital gains withholding (FRCGW) purposes. Example: the importance of getting a clearance certificate early – 15% withheld from sale Willow and Stanley are Australian residents for tax purposes. On 1 September 2024 they decide to sell their family home, their main residence. They need the funds from the sale to purchase a new residence. They are both listed as owners of the property on the certificate of title, so both must apply for their own clearance certificate. They find a purchaser on 8 January 2025 and sign the contract of sale, with a settlement 30 days later on 6 February. They don’t apply for a clearance certificate until 15 January and don't have both of their clearance certificates at, or before settlement. The property sold for $600,000, however: • Willow's clearance certificate issued and was given to the purchaser • Stanley was still waiting for his clearance certificate. The sale goes through and settlement occurs. As Stanley didn't have a clearance certificate at settlement, 15% of Stanley's share of the sale ($90,000) must be withheld by the purchaser and paid to us. Stanley must wait until his 2025 tax return is lodged and processed for a refund. As the purchaser had received a clearance certificate from Willow, there's no withholding required on her share of the sale. (Example provided by the ATO website) If you would like to read more about Clearance Certificates, please click on the below link: https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/investments-and-assets/capital-gains-tax/foreign-residents-and-capital-gains-tax/foreign-resident-capital-gains-withholding/australian-residents-and-clearance-certificates#ato-ClearancecertificatesforAustralianresidents

Good news for Clients with Student Loans - Study loan indexation change

By Caroline Gillies • December 5, 2024
We wanted to bring to your attention some important changes regarding student and training loan indexation that have just passed through Parliament. The law is changing how the indexation on student loans is calculated. In the past, indexation has been based solely on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) . However, moving forward, the indexation rate will be based on the lower of either the CPI or the Wage Price Index (WPI) . This new rule will be backdated to 1 June 2023 , which means it will affect loans from that date onward. Here’s how the updated indexation rates break down: 3.2% for 1 June 2023 (reduced from 7.1%) 4% for 1 June 2024 (reduced from 4.7%). Impact on Your Loan If your loan has been over-indexed in the past two years, you may be entitled to a refund . The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will automatically adjust your account to reflect the new, lower rates and will process refunds for any excess amounts already paid. This means: If after the adjustment, your account is showing a credit (i.e., you've paid more than required), this excess will be refunded to your nominated bank account provided you have no outstanding tax or other Commonwealth debts . If your loan is in credit after the adjustment, any remaining funds may be transferred to offset your income tax account (if applicable), and the remainder will be refunded to you. What You Need to Do For most clients, there’s nothing you need to do at this stage. The ATO will automatically recredit excess amounts to your account once the legislation receives Royal Assent , and this process will begin soon after. You should expect to see these credits applied to your account by the end of January 2025 . However, in some cases, due to the complexity of individual accounts, it might take a bit longer. Unfortunately, the ATO cannot provide a list of exactly which clients will receive refunds, as they will only know once all recredits are processed. We drew inspiration to write this article from the ATO
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