Geoff Gartly CA SMSF

About Geoff Gartly

Geoff Gartly CA is an experienced Australian chartered accountant and business adviser who works with small business owners, families and individuals on practical tax, accounting, structuring and advisory issues. Through Gartly Advisory, he focuses on helping clients understand their numbers, make better business decisions, manage compliance obligations, and plan ahead with confidence. His work often sits at the intersection of tax, business improvement, succession, SMSFs, estate planning and asset protection. Geoff’s style is practical and plain-English: he aims to turn complex financial and tax matters into clear options, so clients can make informed decisions about their business, wealth and future.

Elevate Your Caravan Park Business with our Caravan Park Accounting Services
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Elevate Your Caravan Park Business with our Caravan Park Accounting Services

Accounting & Business Insights, Caravan Park & Motel Accounting Services, Caravan Park Exit Planning

Elevate Your Caravan Park Business with our Caravan Park Accounting Services

By Geoff Gartly|2024-07-03T18:06:44+10:0003/07/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Caravan Park & Motel Accounting Services, Caravan Park Exit Planning|Tags: caravan park accountants, caravan park exit strategy|

Caravan Park Accountants that understand small business and the caravan industry! Attention caravan park owners in Australia! Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Our team of expert accountants, specifically trained to cater to the unique needs of caravan park owners, is here to help you achieve unparalleled success. Comprehensive Financial Services Tailored to Your Needs Taxation and Profit Analysis: Unlock the potential of your caravan park with detailed profit analysis and expert taxation advice. We’ll help you identify growth opportunities and implement strategies to boost your bottom line. Future Planning and Exit Strategies: Plan your [...] READ MORE

July 2024 Newsletter
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July 2024 Newsletter

Accounting & Business Insights

July 2024 Newsletter

By Geoff Gartly|2024-07-31T18:35:14+10:0001/07/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights|Tags: CGT MAIN RESIDENCE, DIV 293, DIVISION 293 TAX, EXEMPTION CONCESSION, JULY 2024, PENSION, property development, REALISING AN ASSET, super, TFN|

Our July edition features pieces on: Division 293 tax – will you be caught? The fine line between property development and “merely realising an asset” The CGT main residence exemption concessions are very useful The secret life of TFNs Can I add to my super pension? VIEW NEWSLETTER Contact us on 03 9597 9966 if you have any questions relating to matters raised in any of our Client Newsletters.

Business social media platforms
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Business social media platforms

Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling, News & Updates

Business social media platforms

By Geoff Gartly|2024-09-23T18:59:32+10:0013/06/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling, News & Updates|Tags: small business|

Which Social Media Platforms Should Your Business Use? As part of your growth and marketing strategy, you need to get your business noticed on business social media platforms. With more than half the world on social media, no business can ignore the importance of being online. Social media strengthens your connection to your target audience, builds a better brand reputation, and opens the door for new sales. Of course, it’s worth noting that there are a lot of social media platforms out there – and not all of them will be relevant to your company. Being successful with social media marketing [...] READ MORE

Rapid business growth
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Rapid business growth

Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling

Rapid business growth

By Geoff Gartly|2024-09-23T18:32:20+10:0021/05/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling|

The Pains of Rapid Business Growth Here is a problem most business owners would love to have! Imagine facing the prospect of your business growing too quickly, making you almost unable to keep up with the pressure of customer demand. Perhaps you have envisioned expanding to another location. You may also consider expanding interstate, increasing staff, or moving into a larger premises or factory. Is this a good situation to have or not? Good growth vs. Bad Growth needs to be identified and managed. Many small business owners fail to realise that rapid business growth can result in specific [...] READ MORE

Turn Your Small Business Goals & Dreams into Achievements!
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Turn Your Small Business Goals & Dreams into Achievements!

Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling

Turn Your Small Business Goals & Dreams into Achievements!

By Geoff Gartly|2024-09-23T19:01:17+10:0017/05/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling|Tags: small business|

To make small business Goals, Write them down and make them happen. Are you a small business owner with big aspirations? I am, too, but when I set my business goals, they were so secret that I couldn’t remember them. Sharing your goals can only happen if they go from head to paper. It’s time to step beyond daydreaming and take decisive action. By writing down your goals and committing to a clear plan, you’re not just setting a course for your business but taking control of its destiny. This act of empowerment can transform your business from surviving to [...] READ MORE

2024 tax planning questions frequently asked
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2024 tax planning questions frequently asked

Accounting & Business Insights, News & Updates, Small Business Accounting Services, SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund), Taxation & Tax Advice

2024 tax planning questions frequently asked

By Geoff Gartly|2024-05-01T10:53:42+10:0001/05/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, News & Updates, Small Business Accounting Services, SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund), Taxation & Tax Advice|

Questions 2024 tax planning from our clients Here are some of the hot 2024 tax planning questions we have received this year about tax and 2024 tax planning. Please let us know if we can help you in any way. What are the changes in Australian tax rates for the year 2024? In 2024, the Australian Government will implement legislated tax cuts to ease the cost of living for taxpayers. Starting from July 1, 2024, these cuts will lower the 19% tax rate to 16% and the 32.5% tax rate to 30%, affecting all 13.6 million Australian taxpayers. What are [...] READ MORE

Proactive tax planning Accountant help
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Proactive tax planning Accountant help

Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling, Small Business Accounting Services, Taxation & Tax Advice

Proactive tax planning Accountant help

By Geoff Gartly|2024-04-07T12:10:31+10:0007/04/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling, Small Business Accounting Services, Taxation & Tax Advice|Tags: small business, small business advice, tax planning|

Working with a proactive tax planning accountant can deliver great tax-saving results. Small business tax planning is crucial for managing your finances effectively. You should implement smart tax strategies. That's why our clients like working with a proactive tax planning accountant. We can help you to maximise your savings, reduce tax liability, and improve your financial position. Proactively planning your taxes will help you legally minimise the tax you owe and optimise your financial resources.Effective tax planning helps you manage cash flow more efficiently. By understanding your tax obligations in advance, you can plan for upcoming expenses and ensure sufficient [...] READ MORE

Estate planning and documenting your future.

By Geoff Gartly|2025-09-23T19:55:22+10:0031/03/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Estate Planning|Tags: death, die, Family Trust, small business, superannuation, tax planning|

Estate planning for the living! What is Estate planning? Many of us go through life not thinking about the end. Many often think "Do I need a will"? Many don’t bother! We start life naked with nothing and we end up leaving an imprint on this earth that others must follow. Telling others how you want what you have accumulated in life is important to support your loved ones. Wills establish wishes after death and are essential for estate planning The chances are that you may have wishes about who gets the large loot of assets and possessions. These assets you [...] READ MORE

Initial repair ATO for my rental property?
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Initial repair ATO for my rental property?

Accounting & Business Insights, Taxation & Tax Advice

Initial repair ATO for my rental property?

By Geoff Gartly|2025-10-14T22:23:18+11:0025/03/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Taxation & Tax Advice|Tags: capital gains, rental property, repairs|

Initial repairs, ATO, and what's allowed are often asked when you acquire a new rental property with existing known repairs. The old house might need fixing before it can be rented. Initial repairs may include tasks such as plumbing, painting, new carpet installation, or appliance repairs, to name a few. Initial repairs are those made to a property: Before it is first rented out, or To remedy defects or damage that existed when the property was acquired (even if repairs are carried out later). Why Are They Not Deductible? 1Capital vs Revenue Expenditure The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) classifies initial [...] READ MORE

Do I need an SMSF Trustee succession plan?
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Do I need an SMSF Trustee succession plan?

Accounting & Business Insights, Estate Planning, SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund)

Do I need an SMSF Trustee succession plan?

By Geoff Gartly|2024-03-17T22:00:53+11:0017/03/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Estate Planning, SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund)|Tags: die, SMSF trustee, super|

Creating a robust SMSF trustee succession plan is critical for Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) managed by aging trustees. An effective succession plan ensures the smooth transition of control and management of the SMSF when the original trustees are no longer able or willing to manage the fund due to age, health, or other reasons. A trustee succession plan must encompass preparation, clear communication, and legal compliance. Understanding SMSF Trustee Succession SMSF trustee succession plan involves preparing for the future management of the SMSF, ensuring it continues to operate effectively and complies with Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (SIS Act) requirements. [...] READ MORE

Super Contribution Caps 2024-25
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Super Contribution Caps 2024-25

Accounting & Business Insights, SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund)

Super Contribution Caps 2024-25

By Geoff Gartly|2024-09-23T19:20:52+10:0023/02/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund)|Tags: small business, super|

Good news for the Super contribution caps 2024-25 have been released. The government has announced that from 1 July 2024, the standard superannuation concessional contribution cap will increase from $27,500 to $30,000 Concessional superannuation contributions are any contributions paid into your superannuation that receive a concessional (or lower) tax rate. These contributions are contributed from earnings that have not yet been taxed. Concessional contributions are sometimes referred to as before-tax contributions. Of course, in some circumstances, you may be able to contribute more in that year than the cap. Use the carry-forward rule if your super balance is less than [...] READ MORE

Divorce and your Business
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Divorce and your Business

Accounting & Business Insights, Business & Family Dispute Management, Estate Planning

Divorce and your Business

By Geoff Gartly|2024-02-23T14:45:08+11:0022/02/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Business & Family Dispute Management, Estate Planning|Tags: divorce, small business, small business advice|

Navigating the Challenges and Moving Forward Divorce and your business. It can be a difficult and emotionally challenging process, and when a small business is involved, it adds another layer of complexity. A failed marriage may not directly cause a business to fail; it can significantly impact the business. Let's explore where husband and wife work daily together in the business and where the wheels fall of the marriage. The intersection of personal and professional lives can create unique challenges for couples who decide to end their marriage while still running a business together. According to the website Marriage.com, it [...] READ MORE

Why Managing Your Profit Margin is Crucial for Business Success
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Why Managing Your Profit Margin is Crucial for Business Success

Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling

Why Managing Your Profit Margin is Crucial for Business Success

By Geoff Gartly|2024-02-21T11:59:23+11:0021/02/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling|Tags: cashflow, small business|

Profit Margin vs Markup can be calculated and result in different outcomes Profit margin and markup are separate accounting terms that use the same inputs and analyze the same transaction yet show different information. Both profit margin and markup use Revenue and costs as part of their calculations. The main difference between the two is that a profit margin refers to sales minus the fee of goods sold, while markup is the amount by which the cost of good increases to get to the final selling price. Profit Margin needs to be healthy Understanding these two terms can help ensure that price setting is [...] READ MORE

SMSF for Property development ventures and your SMSF
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SMSF for Property development ventures and your SMSF

Accounting & Business Insights, Estate Planning, SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund)

SMSF for Property development ventures and your SMSF

By Geoff Gartly|2025-09-23T20:06:41+10:0030/01/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Estate Planning, SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund)|Tags: SMSF trustee, superannuation|

An SMSF can undertake property development. We, however, strongly recommend seeking advice from an SMSF accountant Melbourne. The ATO has issued a warning about the use of SMSFs to invest in property development in a manner that inflates the profits earned by the SMSFs when compared to the capital the SMSF commits to the venture. Can my SMSF invest in a property development? An SMSF can, as part of its investment strategy, invest in property ventures. This is provided the investments are entered into on a genuine arm’s-length basis. As trustees, you should document your strategy, including a risk analysis [...] READ MORE

Gifting assets to a family trust
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Gifting assets to a family trust

Accounting & Business Insights, Estate Planning, Taxation & Tax Advice

Gifting assets to a family trust

By Geoff Gartly|2025-09-30T19:06:04+10:0030/01/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Estate Planning, Taxation & Tax Advice|Tags: assets, beneficiaries, Estate planning, Family Trust, Gifting, Trusts|

Gifting Assets to a Trust or transferring property to a trust helps protect your investments and assets. Many families like to gift assets directly to members. There is no tax on gifting. We are often asked how much can you gift to a family member ? That's an entirely personal decision based on how much you have to give . Many gifting cash to family before death is a thoughtful way to assist and distribute assets based on your decisions. Beware that a pensioner and gifting money to family may find their pension is reduced, so be careful. Another [...] READ MORE

Selling my commercial business property!
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Selling my commercial business property!

Accounting & Business Insights, Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Exit Planning, Small Business Accounting Services, SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund)

Selling my commercial business property!

By Geoff Gartly|2026-07-09T11:04:06+10:0010/01/2024|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Exit Planning, Small Business Accounting Services, SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund)|Tags: cgt, commercial property, myfactory, salepropertymelbourne, small business, small business advice|

How do I sell my commercial business property? When selling your business, your operations and HQ are essential strategic assets. If you own your commercial property, you may also need to put this into the exit mix. Most businesses operate from premises of some sort, so when it comes to exit planning, your decisions about what to do with your business premises are equally important. It requires serious discussion and planning. When it comes to planning, the first thing to do is to review how and what you use your office, factory shop, etc., as part of the business on [...] READ MORE

Where is your Christmas spirit ChatGPT ?

By Geoff Gartly|2024-02-12T16:47:48+11:0015/12/2023|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights|

Without a doubt, I would consider that Santa is one of the hardest-working people this time of the year. As an accountant, this time of the year we deal with the ATO and clients, but Santa has to deal with so much more. From employing elves to dealing with pesky kids not getting their presents, replying to letters and then spending half the night on Christmas Eve delivering presents. So even if you don’t celebrate or are a non-believer, you must agree that the Jolly Man does a good job. To verify how much of a great job he does [...] READ MORE

Cashflow planning for small business during the holiday season

By Geoff Gartly|2024-02-12T16:50:35+11:0010/12/2023|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling|Tags: cashflow, small business|

The holiday season brings joy and celebration, but for small businesses, it can also bring challenges when it comes to cashflow planning Cashflow, the lifeblood of any business. Cashflow is even more crucial during this period. Small businesses are starting to experience delayed payments, reduced sales, and increased expenses due to safety measures and additional costs associated with remote work or implementing safety protocols. The holiday season brings slow down and couple with higher interest rates the economy is changingTo address these challenges, small business owners must adopt proactive cash flow management strategies. Between now and the 15th of January [...] READ MORE

Are you being forced out of your business by an aggressive business partner?

By Geoff Gartly|2024-02-12T16:57:29+11:0022/11/2023|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Business & Family Dispute Management, Exit Planning|

Are you feeling trapped and forced out of your business by an aggressive business partner making your life hell?This situation can be incredibly stressful, leaving you powerless and questioning your dreams, motivation and aspirations. But fear not because help is here.Let’s explore the common signs and tactics that aggressive business partners use to push their partners out and strategies to regain control and protect your interests.Being forced out of your business is a nightmare and unacceptable. The good thing is you don't have to face it alone. The first step is to recognise that your partner is becoming aggressive and [...] READ MORE

Understanding Superannuation Death Benefits

By Geoff Gartly|2024-02-19T13:02:41+11:0012/11/2023|Categories: Estate Planning, SMSF (Self-Managed Super Fund), Taxation & Tax Advice|Tags: SMSF trustee, superannuation, superannuation; super beneficiary|

Superannuation Death benefits are an estate planning matter that is a crucial aspect of financial planning.It is essential to consider what happens to superannuation upon death.Understanding the intricate system of superannuation death benefits is essential for effective financial planning and ensuring that your loved ones are taken care of. When a superannuation member dies, the remaining balance in their super fund and any associated insurance payouts are generally paid out as a superannuation death benefit. This benefit is intended to provide financial support to the deceased member's beneficiaries, including their spouse or partner, children, or other dependents. However, the distribution [...] READ MORE

Customer Retention Engagement Strategies

By Geoff Gartly|2024-02-19T13:06:35+11:0010/11/2023|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling|Tags: sales tools, small business|

???? Customer Retention Engagement Strategies . Lets explore Unlocking the Secret to Keeping Your Customers Engaged in a competitive market ???????? Small businesses are facing unprecedented challenges in today's competitive market. With rising interest rates and soaring fuel costs, it's more important than ever to focus on customer retention strategies that will keep your business thriving. With another interest rate just hitting small businesses we need to start to put strategies in place as we progress into 2024. Ideas to start customer engagement ???? But how do you keep your customers engaged in times of uncertainty and into 2024? Let's [...] READ MORE

Startup mindset shifts for small business!
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Startup mindset shifts for small business!

Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling, News & Updates

Startup mindset shifts for small business!

By Geoff Gartly|2023-10-27T08:40:29+11:0027/10/2023|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights, Business Growth & Scaling, News & Updates|Tags: mindset|

5 Startup Mindset Shifts You Must Make as you launch your New Business.Starting out. Grab that winning mindset from day one to conquer challenges and thrive in the competitive business world. Starting a new business is an exhilarating experience requiring a unique mindset. Business owners are like modern-day supermen/women, equipped with the determination and courage to face any challenge head-on. The excitement of embarking on a new small business venture is unparalleled, as the possibilities are endless, and the potential for success is immense. Get the right startup mindset from day one! With the right startup mindset, you as a [...] READ MORE

Can I Live in SMSF Residential Property upon Retirement?
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Can I Live in SMSF Residential Property upon Retirement?

Accounting & Business Insights

Can I Live in SMSF Residential Property upon Retirement?

By Geoff Gartly|2023-11-20T16:46:31+11:0008/10/2023|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights|Tags: SMSF trustee, superannuation|

Can you live in SMSF residential property held by your Fund?" No not directly, but follow the rules at retirement, and it may be possible. As you retire, retirement planning opens up opportunities for living and the next stage for your SMSF, your lifestyle and your needs. An SMSF is established for the sole purpose of meeting your retirement objectives. And this is the overal objective of holding any assets in the Fund! Retirement planning involves planning and managing your assets into the senior years of your life. Opportunities arise as clients look at the strategies such as the downsized [...] READ MORE

Passion and increase business profit

By Geoff Gartly|2024-09-27T15:42:47+10:0027/09/2023|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights|Tags: businessowner, passion, small business|

Increase your business profits by building a Business You Love, and a Business With Purpose: 7 Steps To Help You Find Your Passion and Increase Business Profits Creating a business you love is not something that can be done overnight. It requires a lot of introspection, creativity and planning. You can do many small things to ensure your business has a purpose and aligns with your values. The key lies in breaking the cycle of doing things just for the sake of it. Instead, create an atmosphere where you’re building a business for its pure joy. The rewards will follow [...] READ MORE

SMSF property rules
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SMSF property rules

Accounting & Business Insights

SMSF property rules

By Geoff Gartly|2023-09-17T15:40:08+10:0017/09/2023|Categories: Accounting & Business Insights|

Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) allow individuals to take control of their retirement savings and invest in assets they have confidence will be right for their retirement strategy. Property investment is a popular choice for many SMSF trustees. However, it's crucial to understand the rules and regulations surrounding this investment strategy. Understanding the rules Let’s explore the golden SMSF property rules of holding property by your SMSF! The Importance of your role as a Trustee of your SMSF Before delving into the specifics of property investment, it's essential to emphasise the importance of responsible SMSF management. As an SMSF trustee of [...] READ MORE