Running a business in Perth comes with exciting opportunities, but also complex tax obligations. While your accountant handles the basics, there are money-saving strategies many won’t share unless you ask. In this guide, we’ll reveal insider tips to help you maximize deductions, avoid ATO audits, and keep more profit in your pocket.
1. Overlooked Deductions That Could Save You Thousands
Most Perth businesses miss these legitimate deductions:
Home Office Expenses
If you work from home even occasionally, you can claim:
A portion of rent/mortgage interest (calculated by floor area)
Electricity and internet bills (time-based calculation)
Office equipment like chairs and monitorsz
Vehicle Costs
Many business owners don’t realize they can claim:
Travel between job sites (not just from home to office)
Toll roads and parking fees for business trips
A portion of car loans/lease payments
Staff and Training
First aid courses for employees
Industry-specific training programs
Christmas party costs (within ATO limits)
Small Business Instant Asset Write-Off
While the rules change frequently, you can often immediately deduct:
Equipment under $300
Computers and tools
Office furniture
Pro Tip: Use the ATO’s myDeductions app throughout the year to track these expenses easily.
2. How the ATO Targets Perth Businesses
The ATO uses sophisticated data-matching to flag suspicious activity. Here’s what triggers audits:
Industry Benchmarks
The ATO compares your deductions to similar Perth businesses. If your:
Deductions are 20% higher than competitors
Profit margins are unusually low
Lifestyle doesn’t match reported income
You’ll likely get scrutinized.
Common Red Flags
Claiming 100% work use for a vehicle also used personally
Sudden spikes in deductions without income increases
Repeated losses year after year
Digital Paper Trail
Since 2025, the ATO can access:
Bank transaction data
Property records
Online sales platforms
Always keep digital copies of receipts for at least 5 years.
3. Legal Tax Reduction Strategies
Timing Is Everything
Delay income: Issue invoices after June 30 to defer tax
Prepay expenses: Pay next year’s rent, insurance, or subscriptions now
Bring forward deductions: Make necessary purchases before year-end
Superannuation Smart Moves
Make concessional contributions before June 30
Consider spouse contributions if eligible
Salary sacrifice arrangements can reduce taxable income
Trust Structures
For businesses earning $200k+, a:
Family trust could distribute income to lower-tax family members
Company structure might offer tax rate advantages
Warning: Always get professional advice before changing structures.
4. Perth-Specific Opportunities
WA Payroll Tax Concessions
The threshold increased to $1 million in 2025
Regional businesses get additional discounts
Grouping rules can help multiple entities
Energy Efficiency Incentives
Instant write-offs for solar installations
Deductions for energy-efficient equipment
WA government rebates for certain upgrades
Mining Service Deductions
If you service the resources sector:
Special depreciation rules apply
Travel to remote sites has unique claims
Camp accommodation costs may be deductible
5. When to Upgrade Your Accountant
Signs You Need a Better Advisor
Your current accountant:
Only contacts you at tax time
Doesn’t explain your options
Hasn’t discussed recent ATO changes
Charges suspiciously low fees
What a Good Perth Accountant Offers
Quarterly tax planning meetings
Industry-specific knowledge
Proactive advice about new laws
Digital tools for real-time tracking
Finding the Right Match
Look for:
Registered tax agents with CA/CPA qualifications
Experience with businesses your size
Local Perth office for face-to-face meetings
6. Year-Round Tax Planning Checklist
Every Quarter
Review profit/loss statements
Compare to industry benchmarks
Meet with your accountant
Before June 30
Make super contributions
Write off bad debts
Order necessary equipment
After June 30
Complete records within 30 days
File BAS statements on time
Plan for next financial year
Final Thoughts
Smart tax management isn’t about dodgy schemes – it’s understanding the rules and applying them strategically. By implementing these tips, most Perth businesses can legally reduce their tax burden by 10-20%.
The key is starting early. Don’t wait until May to think about tax – make it part of your regular business planning.