OBT Financial Group

24/06/2026

YESTERDAY marked the end of an era for OBT as we held our final tax training session with the wonderful Leanne Saunders from Tax Banter.

For many years, Leanne has shared her incredible knowledge, practical insights and infectious sense of humour with our team, turning complex tax topics into engaging and enjoyable learning experiences. Her sessions have helped us strengthen our expertise, stay current with ever-changing legislation and continue providing sound, tax-effective advice to our clients.

While tax can be complicated and dry, Leanne always found a way to make it accessible, memorable and full of laughs.

As Leanne heads into retirement, we want to say a heartfelt thank you for everything she has contributed to OBT over the years. You’ve made a lasting impact on our team, and we wish you every happiness and adventure in this exciting new chapter.

Congratulations on your retirement, Leanne, and thank you for making tax fun 💐

23/06/2026

Government wind-back of EV FBT exemption 🚘🔌

The Government has announced a staged wind-back of the fringe benefits exemption for electric vehicles.

While EV uptake is still supported, the policy aims to make concessions more sustainable and targeted.

Nothing changes immediately — the existing full FBT exemption for qualifying EVs continues until 31 March 2027.

18/06/2026

Big congratulations to Esk on being recognised as Queensland’s Bronze Top Small Tourism Town in the 2026 Queensland Country Tourism Awards 🏆

For those of us lucky enough to live and work in the region, it’s no surprise. From welcoming faces and rich heritage to the stunning Somerset surrounds, Esk continues to prove that great destinations come in all sizes.

(Long-time OBT clients may also remember our former office in the old bank building at Toogoolawah, reflecting our longstanding connection with the Somerset region and its communities.)

Congratulations to everyone who helped put Esk (and Toogoolawah) on the map – a well-deserved achievement and something the whole community can be proud of 👏

18/06/2026

Great news for the Lockyer Valley and a fantastic achievement by one of our clients 👏

A Lockyer Valley ginger and turmeric farm has secured a Coles Nurture Fund grant to help transform tonnes of daily food waste into shelf-ready products, creating new opportunities for sustainability, innovation and value-adding in Australian agriculture.

Congratulations on this exciting milestone – we look forward to seeing the impact this investment will have on the region and beyond!

A Lockyer Valley ginger and turmeric farm has secured a $500,000 Coles Nurture Fund grant to transform tonnes of daily food waste into shelf-ready products 👉 https://bit.ly/4v9bvYi

16/06/2026

FINAL COUNTDOWN TO PAYDAY SUPER 1 JULY 🚀
Now in the final weeks before Payday Super starts, the Tax Office shares what to focus on in the lead up to 1 July 2026.

Contact OBT for help preparing for Payday Super on 07 5462 2277.

See more ATO Payday Super Resources https://www.ato.gov.au/businesses-and-organisations/super-for-employers/payday-super/payday-super-resources -Videos

11/06/2026

Minimum wages increase from 1 July 🗓️
The Fair Work Commission has increased the minimum wage by 6% for the nation’s lowest-paid workers, while the majority covered by modern awards will receive an increase of 4.75%.
The new rates come into effect on 1 July.

The Fair Work Commission has announced an increase to the National Minimum Wage and minimum award wages. Learn more.

08/06/2026

We're kicking off A Day for Emily – Batten Disease Awareness Day by going pink as promised 💖

Batten Disease is a rare genetic disorder that affects the brain and nervous system, causing progressive vision loss, seizures, movement difficulties and cognitive decline. While there is currently no cure, raising awareness is a vital step in supporting affected families and advancing research.

To make a donation please click:
https://bdsraaustralia.org/index-donate.php

We encourage everyone to wear pink, decorate their workplaces in pink and help paint the town pink in support of Emily and others living with Batten Disease. Every conversation helps spread awareness and understanding of this devastating condition.

Emily is the granddaughter and niece of OBT clients, making this a cause that is especially close to home for our team.
Together, we can make a difference 💗 Send us your pics and we'll post them here too!

08/06/2026

Tomorrow, Tuesday 9 June, is A Day for Emily – Batten Disease Awareness Day.

Emily is the granddaughter and niece of OBT clients, making this a cause that is especially close to home for our team.

Batten Disease is a rare genetic disorder that affects the brain and nervous system, causing progressive vision loss, seizures, movement difficulties and cognitive decline. While there is currently no cure, raising awareness is a vital step in supporting affected families and advancing research.

We encourage everyone to wear pink, decorate their workplaces in pink and help paint the town pink in support of Emily and others living with Batten Disease. Every conversation helps spread awareness and understanding of this devastating condition.

To make a donation please visit:
https://bdsraaustralia.org/index-donate.php

Most importantly, Emily's family would love us to help spread the word and raise awareness by sharing this post.

Together, we can make a difference 💗 Send us your pics and we'll post them here!

03/06/2026

Have you received a letter that looks like an ASIC invoice demanding payment for a company review?

You’re not alone. ASIC has recently warned Australian businesses about unsolicited letters and emails from third-party providers that can appear official, use ASIC-sourced public information, include reference numbers, QR codes and payment deadlines, and sometimes offer “early payment discounts”.

If you receive correspondence that doesn't look quite right, contact OBT’s administration team before making payment. A quick phone call could save your business an unnecessary expense.

While these businesses may be offering a legitimate service, ASIC has confirmed that companies are not required to use a third-party provider to complete their annual company review or business name renewal. These obligations can be handled directly through ASIC or your existing registered agent.

Before paying any invoice or notice:
⚠️ Check who sent it
⚠️ Confirm if the fee includes a third-party service charge
⚠️ Verify due dates independently through ASIC or your accountant
⚠️ Be cautious of urgent language, discounts and payment requests that create pressure to act quickly

Read more in explainer article: https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/real-life/news-life/asic-responds-to-letter-targeting-aussie-businesses/news-story/3f842aeed37592bf175a11ce7b9488ea

02/06/2026

Minimum pension drawdown reminder 🤞
If minimum payments are not made by 30 June 2026, this could result in adverse taxation consequences for SMSF members.
https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/super-for-individuals-and-families/self-managed-super-funds-smsf/smsf-newsroom/minimum-pension-drawdown-reminder

Call OBT's SMSF Specialists on 5462 2277 to get organised.