Behind the Books
Card Surcharges Are Banned: What You Can Still Do
Card surcharges are banned on eftpos, Mastercard, Visa and American Express. Here is what you can still charge, the catches to watch for, and what lower interchange caps could mean for your fees.
The ATO Has Extended Credit Card Payments to 30 June 2027
The ATO has extended its credit card deadline to 30 June 2027. Here is what changed, what it means for payment plans and BAS payments, and how to use the extra time.
Card Surcharges Are Being Banned From 1 October 2026
From 1 October 2026, card surcharges on EFTPOS, Visa and Mastercard are banned outright. Here's exactly what happens in Xero automatically, and what to check before the deadline hits.
Costs Are Up, Profit Is Down: What the 2026 Regional Business Report Means for You
Costs are up, profit is down, and only 18% of regional businesses expect that to improve next year. A new COSBOA report breaks down the pressure, and what it means for your books.
Xero's Newest Features: Smart Document Capture and Auto Bank Reconciliation Explained
Xero has rolled out two updates worth knowing about. Smart Document Capture is now in beta for Australia, processing bills and receipts in around 30 seconds. Auto Bank Reconciliation has also been upgraded with in-row editing and clearer transaction reasoning. Here is what it means for your books.
ATO Signals First-Year Payday Super Approach
From 1 July 2026, super must be paid with every pay run and the ATO has made clear it knows who is trying and who is not. Here is what the draft compliance guideline means for your business.
Payday Super Is Now Law: What Employers Need to Know Before 1 July 2026
Significant changes are coming to the way Australian employers pay superannuation. With the government’s Payday Super reform now officially passed into law, all businesses will soon be required to pay super at the same time they pay their employees’ wages.
The ATO’s Small Business Superannuation Clearing House Is Closing: What Employers Need to Do Before July 2026
Major changes are underway for employers who use the ATO’s Small Business Superannuation Clearing House (SBSCH). As part of the government’s broader superannuation reforms, the SBSCH will permanently close on 1 July 2026, meaning businesses will need to transition to a new way of making super payments.
Understanding Your Obligations When Employing Casual Employees
Employing casual staff offers flexibility but comes with specific obligations. Casual employees differ from permanent staff in several ways, including entitlements and rights.
Your End-of-Year Workplace Checklist for Small Businesses
The end of the year is a busy time for small businesses. Between planning holidays, managing staff leave, and keeping payroll accurate, it’s important to ensure compliance with workplace laws. Use this checklist to help your business finish the year smoothly and legally.

