December 2025

susanchongung
Dec 8, 2025
2 min read

As 2025 draws to a close, it’s a good time for both small businesses and individuals to review their tax and compliance positions. The ATO continues to focus on key areas such as GST reporting, superannuation obligations, and non-traditional income streams. Staying on top of these now can help you avoid surprises and start 2026 on a strong footing.

Key Dates

21 December 2025 - November 2025 monthly BAS due for lodgement and payment

ATO Compliance Spotlight

The ATO continues to focus on several areas for both small businesses and individuals this month:

Employee vs contractor classification & superannuation obligations Misclassification and unpaid super remain top triggers for ATO reviews. Ensure all contractor and employee arrangements reflect the actual working relationship.
GST & BAS accuracy
The ATO is increasing data-matching between banks, payment platforms, and BAS lodgements. Mistakes or inconsistencies can lead to compliance checks.
Unreported income & lifestyle audits
Cash-only transactions, rental income, gig economy income, or other unusual income streams without proper documentation are increasingly flagged.

Small Business Checklist

Review worker classification & contracts
Ensure your arrangements with contractors and subcontractors are compliant to avoid penalties.
Keep bookkeeping & BAS ready
Reconcile accounts, verify GST claims, and maintain receipts to reduce errors at lodgement.
Check PAYG and super obligations
Confirm employee and contractor payments are up to date. Late or missing super contributions are a high-risk area.
Asset write-offs & deductions
The extended instant asset write-off may still apply. Ensure assets are installed ready for use by 30 June to qualify.

Individual Tax Reminders

Declare all income
Include income from rental properties, ride-share/gig work, share trading, or other non-traditional sources. The ATO’s data-matching program makes undeclared income more likely to be flagged.
Work-from-home & expense claims
Ensure your deductions are substantiated with proper records and comply with ATO rules.
Super contributions & high-income considerations
Additional contributions may trigger Division 293 tax for high-income earners. Check your super strategy if applicable.

Actions You Can Take Now

Reconcile bank accounts and tidy up bookkeeping
Review contractor and employee arrangements for compliance
Check that all income sources are correctly reported
Plan asset purchases or tax strategies before 30 June

Contact Apex Tax Advisory to review your records, ensure compliance, and receive expert planning advice to head into 2026 with confidence. Get in touch today to get started.