How to calculate your tax rate

Max Newnham When you run a small business you can potentially be subject to countless state and federal taxes.

Online boom sparks credit card crimes

Eric Johnston The online shopping boom spawns a surge in credit card fraud, with about one in 15 Australian adults becoming victims last year and total losses blowing out to a record $278 million.

Planning

How to write an effective business plan

Christopher Niesche The research and analysis involved in writing a business plan can be more important than the document itself.

FINANCE

Build your brand without breaking the bank

Christopher Niesche Six low-cost tips from marketing experts on how to raise your business’ profile.

Greens in bid to boost small business support

Clancy Yeates Small business owners would receive extra support worth up to $300 million a year under a new proposal from the Greens.

Pay tax at the lowest possible rate

Max Newnham We're opening a cafe in a few weeks' time. How can we maximise our tax claims?

How taxing is a second job?

Max Newnham If you're continuing to work full-time while starting a new business, beware of the tax implications.

Warning on carbon tax rorts

Adam Cooper The ACCC is warning small businesses to justify prices if they use the carbon tax to rort customers.

MONEY

Cash splash: 12 ways to beat the taxman

Annette Sampson Another financial year done and dusted. Well, almost. With a little more than four weeks to go until June 30, it is high time to get in some last-minute tax planning.

$17 pay rise for country's lowest paid

Clay Lucas The national minimum wage for Australia's 1.4 million lowest paid workers should be raised by $17.10 a week, Fair Work Australia has said.

Banks must pass on rate cut: ACCI

A leading business group has urged the big banks to pass on a cut in the official interest rate to their borrowers in full.

Special Report

How to negotiate a wheel deal

Steering your fleet towards the right policy can be tricky, but here's some advice to smooth the way, writes Marcella Bidinost.

FINANCE

Dealing with banks in times of crisis

Tony Featherstone Picture this: a family-owned retailer has a $40-million bank loan. The founder has had a good relationship with his banker for years, watched footy with him, and met the bank’s CEO at functions.

BUSINESS MAXIMS

Tax tactics: maximise your return

Max Newnham Tax return time is approaching, so make sure you don't land yourself with a large bill.

One premium does not suit all companies

Christopher Niesche Different sectors need different coverage so it's vital to correctly identify your requirements.

Breeding loyalty can create dividends

Nina Hendy Loyal customers are vital if you want to gain a competitive edge. But with thousands of loyalty programs already operating in Australia, how can you make yours stand out from the crowd?

The golden rules of tax deduction

Max Newnham Don't know whether a payment is tax deductible or not? The golden rule is that it must be linked with the earning of income.

No respite for exporters from lower AUD

Local exporters are still battling to remain competitive despite a recent dip in the value of the Australian dollar, a survey suggests.

Finance

Taxing times - how to prepare your business

Christopher Niesche With the end of financial year fast approaching, it’s time for small businesses to start getting their tax in order and gearing up to take advantage of some law changes coming into force in the new...