How powerful is the ATO?

Clear Vision • April 17, 2018

ABC News has an interesting article about the ATO which states the Australian Tax Office has been described as one of the most powerful institutions in the country.

And if you didn’t watch Four Corners last week, you may be interested to hear about a joint investigation by Four Corners and Fairfax Media which has exposed disturbing behavior within the Tax Office, sparking calls for more oversight and accountability.

The ATO has extraordinary powers and when it makes mistakes, it can destroy small businesses and livelihoods, states ABC News.

Here are a few eye opening, jaw dropping facts you may not know:

  • If the ATO comes knocking, you have to prove your innocence. Innocent until proven guilty is not how it works with the Tax Office.
  • The ATO can search your property without a warrant “When using our access powers, we are authorised to enter and remain on any land, premises or place and have full and free access to books, documents, goods or other property,” an ATO statement says
  • The ATO can divert your income…. to itself. This power allows the ATO to instruct a bank to immediately divert income sent to a small business to the Tax Office.

If you want to protect yourself now you may want to consider Audit Shield Service. You may not be targeted but if you are, wouldn’t it be comforting to know that in the event that you are subject to an audit, enquiry, investigation or review in relation to your lodged returns, if you participate in our Audit Shield service you will be covered for the professional fees associated with the response process (up to a prescribed limit). It’s basically giving you peace of mind.

To find out how call us on 07 4688 2500.

You can read more about it at www.abc.net.au

Capital Gains Tax Implications of Subdividing Land in Australia

By Caroline Gillies • June 1, 2025
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Autumn Tax Tips: Make the Most of the Final Weeks Before Year-End

By Caroline Gillies • May 25, 2025
As we step into the final week of autumn and feel winter’s chill approaching, it’s a natural time for reflection—and that includes taking stock of your financial and tax situation. The end of the year is closer than it seems, and a bit of preparation now can make a significant difference come tax season. Here are a few things to consider as the leaves fall: 1. Review Your Income and Deductions This is a good moment to check your income year-to-date and consider whether there are any deductions you can still take advantage of. Charitable donations or investment losses might help reduce your taxable income before year-end. 2. Maximise Super Concessional Contributions If you haven’t yet maxed out your superannuation concessional contributions, there’s still time. Remember unused cap amounts carry forward for 5 years and the 2019-20 unused cap amount will expire 30 June 2025. These contributions not only help secure your future but can also offer tax benefits now. 3. Organise Your Records Autumn’s slower pace is perfect for pulling together receipts, invoices, and financial documents. Getting organised now means less stress later when tax season begins in earnest. 4. Consider Tax-Loss Harvesting If you’ve had investments that underperformed, selling them before the end of the year to offset gains can be a strategic move. Consult with us today to see if this makes sense for you. 5. Plan Ahead Winter may bring holidays and downtime, but it's also a good window to consult with a tax professional. A quick meeting before year-end can reveal savings opportunities or help avoid surprises when you file. So, as the days grow shorter and frost begins to settle in, use this time to bring clarity and warmth to your finances.

Have you Thought About Where Your Business Will Be in 5 Years?

By Caroline Gillies • May 11, 2025
At Clear Vision Accountancy Group, we offer tailored services to support your long-term success—from strategic business planning to high-end tax administration. Whether you're aiming for growth, improved profitability, or a clearer direction, we're here to help you build a plan that gets results. If you're ready to map out the next five years with clarity and confidence, contact us today on (07) 4688 2500. Our 1-Page Business Plan will help you with: 1. Vision & Purpose Where are you headed, and why does it matter? What is the core purpose of your business? In five years, what positive impact will you have made on your customers, team, or community? What do you want your business to be recognised for within your industry? 2. Growth & Scale What does success look like, and how will you achieve it? What revenue, profit, or market position are you targeting? How many clients or customers do you want to serve—and in which markets? Are you planning to expand your offerings or enter new territories? 3. Team & Culture Who is helping you build it—and how? What does your ideal team look like in terms of structure, culture, and capabilities? How will you attract, retain, and develop top talent? What kind of leadership values and workplace environment will you foster? 4. Operations & Systems How will you deliver at scale—efficiently and reliably? What systems and workflows need to be in place to support sustainable growth? Which technologies or platforms will you implement to improve efficiency? How automated or streamlined do you want your business operations to become? 5. Brand & Customer Experience What do customers say about you—and why do they keep coming back? How will clients describe their experience with your business? What kind of reputation or brand presence will you be known for? What sets your business apart from the competition ?  Our Dream it. Plan it. Get it! will help you with: 1. Lifestyle & Personal Goals How does your business support the life you want to live? What level of involvement do you want in the day-to-day operations? What does ideal work-life balance look like for you? What personal or financial goals will your business help you achieve?