This month the SME Tax Forum has focused on a number of major issues for small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) including the federal budget and how the taxation system might be improved for business.
A discussion and live chat were run on the outcomes of the 2011 budget. Business-as-usual seemed to be the main response with a vote of confidence by some for the proposed changes to fringe benefits tax (FBT) and motor vehicle arrangements.
Off the back of this commentary, a live chat was held with Assistant Commissioner Michael Hardy who shared his views on the budget.
Besides his own analysis, Michael had the opportunity to hear the views of members on how they felt the budget and current economic climate is impacting on their business.
Superannuation is a big ticket item for many SMEs, so the forum hosted a webinar on this topic with over 50 participants attending this educational session.
Finally, a recent research paper that received media coverage looked at the relationship between banks and SMEs. The research explores the disconnect between the good job banks believe they are doing as opposed to some of the harsher realities experienced by SMEs. The forum ran a discussion on this research which lead to some heated debate between members.
All forum activities including live chats, webinars and discussions are now available online for member viewing.
Last Modified: Thursday, 21 July 2011