49 minute read
COLUMNIST ARTICLES
LOCAL STORIES
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By Warren Strybosch
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has declared that COVID-19 disaster payments will now be tax-free. For all of those who have submitted their tax returns before 1st August 2021, you may need to amend your returns or lose the tax you otherwise previously paid.
On Tuesday, the Treasury Laws Amendment (COVID-19 Economic Response No. 2) Bill 2021 was introduced into Parliament, confirming Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s comments that COVID-19 disaster payments would now be tax-free.
Previously, COVID-19 disaster payments were taxable income. However, after the announcement, they will now be treated as non-assessable non-exempt income. The Institute of Public Accountants general manager of technical policy, Tony Greco, said granting the $750 a week payment with a tax-free status would mean workers will take home more than they did under the original JobKeeper program.
Disaster payment recipients can expect to be better off by $90 a week compared with the JobKeeper wage subsidy, based on an annualised $39,000 income of $750 each week.
“The main concern is that these payments have always been stated as assessable, so now there’s confusion,” said Mr Greco. “It is a significant shift in treatment from what people have been told and what we have come to expect. According to Mr Morrison, more than $490 million in COVID-19 disaster payments have been paid to over 955,000 workers in NSW and Victoria.
The payments, which were increased on Wednesday from $600 to $750 a week for workers who lost more than 20 hours and raised from $450 from $375 for those who lost between eight and 20 hours, are expected to cost the federal government $750 million a week.
For those of you who have already lodged your returns and the COVID-19 disaster payment was included as taxable income, you might like to consider amending your returns and potentially getting some money back from the ATO.
Special Tax Return Offer
1300 88 38 30
$99 Returns - PAYG Only
We have made it cheaper and easier for you to get your returns completed & you can do it all from the comfort of your own home.
Here are the steps involved:
1. Email to returns@findaccountant.com.au requesting your PAYG return to be completed. Provide us with your full name, D.O.B and address.
2. A Tax engagement letter will be emailed to you for signing via your mobile (no printing or scanning required).
3. You will be then sent a tax checklist to complete online. Takes less than 5 minutes.
4. We will then require you to upload your documents to our secure portal.
5. Once we have received all your documentation, we will complete the return.
6. We will email you the completed return with our invoices. Once you sign the return and pay the invoice we will lodge the return on your behalf.
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ACCOUNTANT
By Warren Strybosch
SuperStream is the new standard for super transactions designed to improve the quality of data and improve processing efficiency for both employers and super funds. SuperStream servicea will collect contribution data from employers and distribute this data to SMSF software providers.
As part of this, all trustees of SMSFs must comply with a new data and e-commerce standard. Employers will be able to send superannuation contributions and data to multiple funds in one standard electronic format, instead of sending information to separate funds in multiple formats.
What is SuperStream?
SuperStream is a government reform designed to enhance the efficiency of the super system. Under SuperStream, employers are required to make super contributions, both data and payment, on behalf of their employees electronically. All super funds, including SMSFs, must receive contribution data and payments electronically in accordance with the SuperStream standard.
SuperStream Gateways will collect your contribution data from employers and distribute this data to your SMSF.
Go to ATO website to read more: https://www.ato.gov.au/super/superstream/
Australia Post will provide Simple Fund 360's SuperStream Gateway
BGL has partnered with Australia Post to provide SuperStream services. Registration can be done directly through Simple Fund 360 free of charge. Do not register directly through Australia Post as a cost will be incurred. All BGL clients must use Australia Post as their default gateway as Simple Fund 360 will not integrate with any other gateway provider. If you register with another gateway, you will not be able to use the SuperStream data in Simple Fund 360.
Where can I find the Electronic Service Address (ESA)?
The Electronic Service Address (ESA) is required by employers so that they can send contribution data to that address. Each SuperStream Gateway has a unique ESA.
The ESA is available in the Trustee/Employer Notification Letters which can be prepared after you or your accountant has registered the fund for SuperStream.
The ESA will also be saved under Fund | Fund Details.
Once registered, SMSF Trustees will need to provide the following information to their employer:
Self Managed Super Fund name, ABN, The Electronic Dervice Address (ESA), BSB and Account Number. An Employer Notification Letter can also be generated in Simple Fund 360.
Thankfully, the ATO has confirmed it will not take a hard-line enforcement approach to SMSFs that do not comply with the new SuperStream requirements set to be implemented on 1 October this year even though funds in this predicament will be considered to have committed a regulatory contravention.
When speaking to the SMSF Association, the ATO superannuation and employer obligations director, Belinda Black said: “Not complying [with the SuperStream requirements] is a breach of the payment standards and penalties may apply. However, like any new functionality and change, the ATO wants to support those impacted and therefore will allow a transition window for the industry to get up to speed and understand SuperStream.”
There are currently several SMSF software providers already compliant with SuperStream. For Trustees of SMSF, it is best to talk to your accountant regarding SuperStream to make sure they, more importantly, you as the Trustee, will be able to meet your obligations after the 1st of October 2021.
At Find Accountant, we provide SMSF tax advice. Our senior accountant is also an award-winning financial advisor. If you require SMSF advice or are considering whether or not to wind up your SMSF, then speak to Warren Strybosch at Find Accountant Pty Ltd.
Warren Strybosch
You can call them on 1300 88 38 30 or email info@findaccountant.com.au www.findaccountant.com.au
DIY Bookkeeping
BOOKKEEPER
By Neha Nayyar
Expenses, invoicing, pays, BAS, GST… the list goes on. Every business (big and small) has to do bookkeeping to some extent, and if it is done by yourself or an employee, as long as you have the right training, software and support, you can do it successfully. Here are some key tips to help you successfully DIY your books.
Invest in your bookkeeping
Think of professional training for your bookkeeping as an investment rather than an expense. You are investing in knowledge customised to your business, which will pay in dividends over the years as you become proficient and can see insights at the click of a button to see how your business is performing, not to mention the sound knowledge that you are doing your books correctly.
Choose your training wisely
By choosing a bespoke, tailored training approach, you will walk away with the knowledge you need, customised for your business. People fall into the trap of generic bookkeeping courses, or courses offered by the software provider, however generally, they are completely overwhelming as they cover every aspect, and many of the modules will not apply to your business and you will walk away more confused than when you started.
If you are unsure, STOP!
It is a lot easier (and cheaper for you) for a professional to come in and assist you if you get stuck on something, instead of having to pay for a big clean up of errors. If something doesn’t look or feel right, stop and get some help.
Ensure you have the right software
There are many platforms on the market, however they all offer varying features (and pricing), so ensure you take the time to research several to choose the best one for your business. You may have used one platform for many years, however there could be a better product more suitable out there which could save you both time and money. I strongly suggest seeking professional, unbiased advice on choosing the right software to suit your businesses needs.
Get a health check on your books
Have an accountant or bookkeeper go over your books to ensure you are on the right track. They will be able to offer advice on improvements and you will also have the reassurance that you are doing it correctly.
Beware of the financial repercussions
As a business owner, you are responsible for your declarations to the tax office. The onus is on you to provide the correct information when it comes to your tax and BAS obligations. If your bookwork is not correct, you could either be paying too much tax or not enough, which can have disastrous consequences.
At Sum & Substance, we offer Health Checks where we go through your files, check for inconsistencies, ensure bank feeds and reconciliation are being done correctly and then meet with you online to go through the findings. If you do your own books, this is a worthwhile investment for peace of mind. Please contact us if you would like more information about our Xero Health Checks. We can be reached at (03) 9424 9447 or info@ sumsubstance.com.au. You can directly book in a time to chat by clicking here.
Save Your Time & Grow Your Business
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• Xero Training for Business Owners • Xero Health Check and Clean up • Virtual CFO
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• Setup, Training & Review • Phone and Email Support • Payroll • Bookkeeping Sum and Substance Bookkeeping, Training and VCFO services Neha Nayyar - Director
9/31 Dudbley St, Eltham VIC 3095 PO Box 759, Eltham VIC 3095 Office: (03) 9424 9447 Neha: 0401 409 573 Email: info@sumsubstance.com.au Website: www.sumsubstance.com.au
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SOLICITOR
By David Heasley
A SMSF deed is a bit like insurance. You don’t know how well it protects you until the worst happens. For example, you discover the SMSF deed itself is invalid, or doesn’t comply with legislation. As superannuation and tax laws are constantly changing, SMSF deeds should be reviewed on at least an annual basis and revised as needed, preferably, by lawyers who are SMSF experts.
This situation can come about because it has been possible for several years for advisers, such as accountants and financial planners to obtain the use of SMSF and related legal templates in order that the adviser can prepare documents themselves.
Typically, the adviser pays a licence fee that permits them to download the template and prepare the documents as compared to paying a law firm to prepare an SMSF deed for a particular client.
Generally speaking, the template suppliers do not have any significant technical or legal expertise in respect of drafting documents such as SMSF deeds or other related legal documents.
But it was signed off by a Lawyer- Right?
Many non-qualified SMSF document suppliers claim that their documents are “signed-off by a lawyer”. While a reference to “signed off by a lawyer” does not have a fixed meaning, it is meant to give the impression that the document in question was prepared and reviewed by a lawyer who has approved that individual document, and not just the template. Thus, care is required when dealing with such claims.
The actual template (for example a SMSF deed) may very well have been prepared by a lawyer, any resulting completed document may not have been.
The position is likely to be clearer where the SMSF deed is supplied directly from a law firm and not from an advisor using a template. In this case a lawyer reviews the instructions for each SMSF, and then drafts documents that are appropriate to those instructions.
Can I sue the lawyer when it all goes bad?
Unfortunately, probably not. Unlike the scenario where a lawyer handles the whole matter, where the work is done by a non – lawyer there may be little or no protection for any badly done or erroneous work.
One example (of erroneous work) may be an ineffective binding death benefit nomination (BDBN) where the SMSF deed has not been varied correctly. In these instances there is unlikely to be professional indemnity insurance available to an adviser who prepares the invalid deed, as a non-qualified person is not legally authorised to prepare a legal document for a client.
In fact, most professional indemnity insurance for advisers (other than lawyers) also excludes cover for services that a lawyer must perform.
Advisers and end-users should therefore not assume that professional indemnity insurance is available. Further, some non-qualified suppliers may have no insurance cover at all, leaving the only option for recovery being to sue the advisor.
In the cases the money saved by not involving a lawyer (as competent advisors will do) may prove to be expensive indeed.
David Heasley
Principal Solicitor HEASLEY LAWYERS www.heasleylawyers.com.au 0408 611 834
How is your emotional cup doing?
PARENTING
By Lesley-Anne Banton
How is your emotional cup doing? Have you checked in with yourself recently?
Is it full?
Dosed it need a little attention?
Are you just hanging in there?
There is so much unrest and unease currently, most seen on social media and in the media, some may be seen within your friendship groups and families. It can be all consuming and draining. Our emotional cups may be empty, and we haven’t even notice, some might of disengage from life and not noticed. There is all too much fear and anger around at this moment. Our focus might be so far outside ourselves that we have forgotten to check in or we might have checked in too late and we feel emotionally paralysed or overcome and living in a state of fear or anger. Give your self a gift. STOP for a moment, BREATH and CHECK in with yourself.
Where are you? What’s your thinking state? What’s your emotional state? How full is your emotional cup? What’s in your emotional cup?
Is it full of fear and anger? Is it full of love and peace? Is there a mix?
BREATH, that’s it, take this moment for you for your wellbeing.
Notice your breath coming into your body and filling your lungs and diaphragm, breath. Focus on your heart and lung area.
Check-in, how are you doing?
Is there an area in your life, thoughts or emotions that needs some TLC?
Have you been in fear? Anger? Distress? This can drain our body, consume our thoughts, and create unhelpful thinking patterns that we might not know we are in whilst we are consumed by the noise of the day, the media, and social media. It is said that this state can really damage our health, our emotional health and psychological health. Take this moment to breath.
Our mind can be our biggest controlling illusionist when it comes to telling what to think, feel, be and focus on. Our mind makes meaning of things well before we realise, we are reacting to the meaning and absorbed in the emotions and physical state it leaves behind. It is not until we take a moment to breath, notice the now this immediate moment that we can even begin to observe ourselves, our thoughts our emotions and they way our body is feeling.
Most people in a heightened state of fear and anger wouldn’t have made it this far in to reading this, there mind would have already pulled them away. Their internal dialog might have been, “this is a load of rubbish”, “I’ve got better this to do with my time”, This is boring, and I can’t relate”. And that’s ok if did. If you are still reading you have realised that you do need to take a moment, that you might be running on empty or you may have realised that you have and rare in a state of fear and you want to move away from that feeling. If you are still here, breath and celebrate yourself for taking this moment for you, for your emotional, physical, and psychological wellbeing. This is self-care, this is learning to observe yourself, this is helping your mind to get into the present moment and noticing that you are safely sat where you are simply noticing. This is noticing where your emotional cup is, what it has in it or not and how to fill with the stuff that make you feel good, the stuff that fills your heart, the stuff that helps you to focus on the things that bring you joy, even the smallest of things. It may even be gratitude for your self for taking this moment for you. In taking this moment you can start to recharge you can start to come out of a state of fear and or anger. You might even start to notice a small change in perspective of your world one that might seem a little more manageable, one that you might feel you can feel unstack and see some possible choices. You might even notice that those around you might be in a state of fear or that their cups might be empty or fill with unhelpful emotions. You might be able to help them now.
Now that you have taken this moment you might decide that you need some self-care, some kind words said to yourself internally, you might choice to take different action that help fill your cup with the good stuff, you might even notice your cup already starting to fill. If you are still with me keep breathing, notice where you are sitting, how good does it feel? Can you see anything around you that might fill you with happiness or joy? Can you hear the birds singing? Your pet calling? Or if you have children, can you hear them? Smile, breath, and smile? Are you outside? Notice the sky, the trees, the spring flowers, the clouds, the sun, or the wind on your face? You can?! This is presence, you are becoming present to the moment not your thoughts, you are becoming present to the moment and focusing your attention to it not your thoughts. You are filling your cup. You might start to notice and feeling of stillness coming in or happiness flowing, to enhance these express words of gratitude to yourself for your self and for this moment. Express gratitude for witnessing the sky, the birds sing or your pet’s joy. Feel this moment without judgement, feel it with gratitude and simply notice YOU.
Source: pixabay - novelro
Lesley-Anne Banton
Life Coach THE PARENT WHISPERER
0432 848 418 | theparentwhisperer1@gmail.com
www.theparentwhisperer.com.au
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GENERAL INSURANCE
By Craig Anderson
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Any advice in this article has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, before acting on the above advice, you should consider its appropriateness (having regard to your objectives, needs and financial situation).
Craig Anderson
General Insurance Small Business Insurance Brokers
www. heightsafetyinsurancebrokers.com.au 0418 300 096
So, you want to be an architect?
ARCHITECT
By Kathy Ismail
I’ll tell you how I became an architect as it is a good illustration of the path someone aspiring to be an architect can follow.
Interest and talents
When I was twelve, I told my parents that I wanted to work as an architect. I loved science, maths and technical challenges. My dad was an engineer and my mum was an accountant; I suppose the precedent was there for me to follow. However, I also absolutely loved arts. I did all sorts of arts – traditional Malaysian wax painting, watercolours, acrylics, modern calligraphy, Arabic script calligraphy, model making with scraps ... Basically you name it, I’d probably have done it. I also had a strong affinity for reading. I decided to combine those all those interests together by becoming an architect!
Architecture is one of the few science subjects with a strong arts focus. Read widely broad range of subjects and an extensive knowledge base will equip you well to be an architect.
University life
For my Bachelor’s degree, I enrolled in a university that focused on the technical. In the first three years, we produced our architectural drawings by hand – no architecture software or renders for our presentation! We were allowed to use AutoCAD or similar software for our final year of the undergraduate degree. Other useful softwares at this stage were Photoshop and Illustrator.
Throughout university life, I was involved with the debating society that honed my critical thinking and helped my communication skills. Due to heavy loading of the semester (eight subjects!), I had to work smart in a field whose culture includes sleeplessness and caffeine. Upon graduating, I spent a couple of months working for a small firm. It wasexciting to put into practice what I’d learnt. When I enrolled in my Masters degree, I landed a student position at a local architecture firm, and continued working there after I graduated. It was a great firm to start my career in Australia. All the team members were so helpful and I learnt a great deal about construction detail. I have always been interested in technical detail so this helped propel my knowledge and career.
Learn to love technology! There is so much software out there designed specifically that pinpoints accuracy and saves you time. Gains skills from other activities on offer at university, such as I did on the debating team. Learn to work smart, and maintain a mindset of learning. Though tertiary qualifications are necessary, they are just the groundwork; you will learn more about the architecture profession in your first jobs.
Registration
To work on the projects I desired and at the level I aspired to, I needed to become a registered architect. I sat for the Architectural Practice Exam. The Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) has outlined areas of competencies within architecture. You have to fulfil at least 3,500 hours in accumulation of these skills for architect registration. That is equivalent to almost two years working full-time post-graduate level as an architectural graduate.
Once I passed the logbook and national written exam stages, I was interviewed by a panel of amazing and highly experienced architects who made me comfortable while answering the questions. Was I nervous? Oh yeah! My interview was held in winter but the room, for some reason, seemed really warm ... When the interview ended, I thought I just woken up from a running nightmare!
Each state has their own architecture registration board. Each state has a slightly different building law; hence, the final hurdle is conducted with the state’s architect registration board. You can find out more from these organisations:
ACT: https://www.planning.act.gov.au/ build-buy-renovate/for-industry/otherpractitioners/architect-registration ARBV: http://www.arbv.vic.gov.au/ NSW: https://www.architects.nsw.gov.au/ NT: https://architects.nt.gov.au/ QLD: https://www.boaq.qld.gov.au/ SA: http://www.archboardsa.org.au/ TAS: http://architectsboardtas.org.au/ WA: http://www.architectsboard.org.au/
Resource link: AACA: https://www.aaca. org.au/
A week later, an email advised me that I passed all the hurdles to be become an architect. I was invited to be registered with the Architect Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV)! This allowed me to start my own architecture business three years after registration, KiR Architecture.
Would you like to ask Kathy about becoming an architect? Let her know at contact@kirarchitecture.com.au.
Contact Kir Architecture at contact@ kirarchitecture.com.au for help with planning your building projects. We are always happy to answer any inquiries.
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LACTATION CONSULTANT
By Dr. Joanna Strybosh
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MarkMogato
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Dr. Joanna Strybosch
Osteopath B.App.Sc(Clin.Sc)/B.Osteo.Sc/Grad Dip Paeds Lactation Consultant CHILDREN’S OSTEOPATHIC CENTRE 9876 3011 www.childrensostheopathiccentre.com
Significant Addition To The OHS Act Is Now In Place
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY
By Mark Felton
If you are a business owner and employ staff, then you need to be aware of the recently introduced industrial manslaughter laws that have been added to the OHS Act, affecting businesses, including partnerships, corporations, self-employed persons, as well as officers of corporations.
The new laws attract the highest penalty in the OHS Act, with maximum fines of approx. $16.5m for employers and jail terms of up to 20 years and fines of up to $1.65m for officers whose actions or omissions:
• cause the death of a worker or member of the public; • involve a breach of an OHS duty; • were negligent.
So what does this mean for and your business? What steps do you need to take to ensure that you are in step with demonstrated actions that will protect you from having a workplace death at your business, and finding yourself facing a prison sentence and/or a massive fine? Do you have an understanding of your obligations under the Act in general? Initially you will need to review your site and the nature of the tasks carried out within it. You will need to gain an understanding of the elements of the Act relevant to the running of your business. You may need to develop procedures and practices, as well put in place protective measures, including equipment.
What systems do you have to record relevant information, and to be able to recall these records? Do you have the right sort of consultative mechanisms to ensure that you develop effective measures and comply with the Act? Beaumont Advisory can assist you in clearly identifying where you are currently at, and the measures that need to be developed to keep you and your employees healthy and safe. Please feel free to contact Mark Felton at Beaumont Advisory on 0411 951 372 or mfelton@ beaumontlawyers.com.au .
Occupational Health & Safety BEAUMONT LAWYERS www.thebeaumontgroup.com.au
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Four Attractive Doors And Gates Options For Commercial Premises
GARAGE DOORS
By Chantal Djuric
Your commercial premises need to be super safe, especially during this period of fluctuating lockdown cycles.
Here are four attractive door and gate options that you might not have thought of for securing your business workspace and assets.
Sliding gates
Sliding gates make an open, welcoming appearance to a property such as a car sales yard or gardening retail space. Here are four benefits that may persuade you to install boom gates at your commercial premises:
• improved security – as they can only be opened with a card or other security device, unwanted vehicles are prevented from entering. Boom gates can also monitor and record vehicle registration details of all who enter and leave. • control of traffic flow – where there are limited parking spaces and a lot of vehicles, boom gates allow full control over the amount of vehicles that can be on a property at any one time. • cost savings on security – with minimal operating and maintenance costs, boom gates also remove the need for a security guard. • saving space – boom gates require significantly less space than swinging and sliding gates and require only a small amount of vertical space to swing upwards.
Though boom gates are easy to install and maintain, we recommend that you call a garage door specialist to do the job.
High cycle panel lift door
High cycle panel lift doors are built for durability, speed and efficiency. They perform more quickly and reliably than traditional sectional doors, and are therefore especially suitable for transportation, distribution and manufacturing businesses, as they have faster opening and closing speeds.
There are several varieties of sliding gates on offer – face-welded radiatorstyle gates, aluminium slates, aluminium garden styles, Colorbond fencing and even laser-cut screens. They all come in a large range of up-to-date colours and sizes. They are typically made using 40 x 40 mm or 50 x 50 mm frames, with a design pattern to be specified.
Guideposts are positioned at the back of the gate on either side; one supports the gate when sliding, the other supports the gate when it is closed. Sliding gates operate on an aluminium track with 90 mm wheels insert in the bottom rail. As the gate sits a total of 40 mm above ground, this needs to be factored in when determining the overall height of the gate.
Sliding gates should always be installed by a garage door specialist.
Boom gates
Effective and affordable, boom gates are a popular option in carparks, shopping centres, hospitals and apartment complexes. Also perfect for gated industrial estates, these barriers can offer both privacy and security for business owners. An added bonus is that they are easy to clean and maintain. They also have an increased lifespan by eliminating the need for counterbalance springs. As if all that wasn’t enough, their rapid open-close cycles promote energy efficiency through reduction of heating and cooling.
High cycle doors are made with strong components and heavy-duty springs. Most models have a barrel and spring construction; that means there’s a barrel holding the rolling mechanism while the springs ease the tension from the door’s weight. This kind of roll-up door is made from sturdier materials compared to others, so the size of springs used on them is very important.
Regular repair and maintenance is essential for high cycle doors. We recommend servicing every three months to keep these doors in prime condition.
Mesh panel doors
Mesh panel doors have been designed for security and functionality. A strong and rigid aluminium frame surrounds the diamond mesh inserts for a door that is aesthetically pleasing in appearance yet will provide the user with many years of reliable service.
Suitable for use in residential and light commercial premises, an aluminium mesh roller panel door provides both security and ventilation of approximately 60%. They are ideally suited to carparking spaces in and under home units and commercial office buildings where security, reliability and ventilation issues are paramount, adding natural light and airflow to your garage. These doors can be operating at least a hundred times per day, so we highly recommend a routine service is done every three months to keep this door running its best at all times.
For 24/7 garage door servicing, give Cruzin Garage Doors a call on 0427 894 603 or email us at sales@ cruzingaragedoors.com.au.
One Easy Way To Prevent Elderly Loved Ones Feeling Lonely
ACCREDITED EDITOR
By Susan Pierotti
The City of Maroondah has great facilities for families and young people setting up home. There are numerous private and public schools, sporting clubs and grounds, libraries, house styles to suit everyone and shopping areas from small and chic to the giant-like Eastland.
Bit did you know that Maroondah also has one of the highest numbers of elderly people living within it in the greater area of the city of Melbourne? They may be living in their own home, they may be enjoying the lifestyle of a retirement village or they may be in aged care.
Wherever they are, aside from their family members and friends, they are often the ‘silent generation’.
Old age is filled with challenges. Our bodies begin to slow down, our mind is often not so sharp, and our strength begins to fade away. We get more wrinkles, our sight and hearing get worse, and often our life becomes slower and less adventurous.
Everyone pretty much knows all of that, but there’s something that happens to a lot of old people that isn’t talked about enough. That’s elder abuse.
Elder abuse
A lot of elderly people are abused. This tends to happen because, like children, they are now vulnerable.
The World Health Organization defines elder abuse as ‘a single or repeated act, or lack of appropriate action, occurring within any relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person. This type of violence constitutes a violation of human rights and includes physical, sexual, psychological, and emotional abuse; financial and material abuse; abandonment; neglect; and serious loss of dignity and respect.’
WHO has revealed that, worldwide, around 1 in 6 elderly people experience some form of abuse in their lives. One of the saddest things in our society is a lot of the elderly have got nobody in the world, nobody to stand up for them and nobody to be there.
When we get old, things can get lonely. We can become isolated and vulnerable.
Sadly, there have been too many instances where elderly people have found themselves belittled, neglected, mistreated and taken advantage of when they are in a rest home or in some form of assisted care. Even after the 2018 Royal Commission into Aged Care, the 2020 COVID crisis revealed continuing neglect of elderly residents in some aged care facilities. There are many more still who are never technically ‘abused’ but who are rudely treated, ignored, or just sadly misunderstood.
When we get old, things can get lonely. We can become isolated and vulnerable. Sadly, there have been too many instances where elderly people have found themselves belittled, neglected, mistreated and taken advantage of when they are in a rest home or in some form of assisted care. Even after the 2018 Royal Commission into Aged Care, the 2020 COVID crisis revealed continuing neglect of elderly residents in some aged care facilities.
There are many more still who are never technically ‘abused’ but who are rudely treated, ignored, or just sadly misunderstood.
How to let them know they are valued
One simple way to prevent elderly ones from feeling neglected, ignored or lonely is to take the time to sit and listen to their stories.
This isn’t as easy as it sounds. Besides finding the time to do this consistently, this can be tricky as we often don’t have the time or headspace to ask the relevant questions. The elderly person may think, ‘Oh, everyone knows that story so I won’t repeat it’ or think that some facts are so ordinary that they are not worth telling.
Why not employ a life story professional to complete your loved one’s story? In the telling of their tale to a stranger, the elderly story teller simply comes alive! They feel valued and important, and it is a sure-fire way to prevent them feeling lonely or neglected.
Caring about someone’s life and showing them that they are loved is probably the most precious gift we can ever give. Contact Susan at www. creativetext.com.au to discuss recording your elderly loved one’s story.
Susan Pierotti
Accredited Editor Creative Text Solutions 0437 127 159 www.creativetext.com.au
Finance Options For Small Business
MORTGAGE BROKERING
By Reece Droscher
One of the most competitive finance sectors for lenders in the current environment is the commercial lending market, particularly finance for small business. Once the domain of the major banks, there has been an influx of new providers in this market offering cheaper products and different solutions to help small business with their finance needs. Trying to work out the most suitable product for a particular finance need can be a difficult task. Here is a list of the most common products available to small business and how they are designed to help.
SECURED BUSINESS LOANS
These loans are the traditional products offered when a business requires to fund a large expense over a long term. For example the business may be looking to:
• Buy a property to occupy. • Complete a shop fit-out. • Buy another business. • Restructure the existing business, ie buy out an existing business partner. • Consolidate or restructure existing business debt. • Fund a start-up.
Secured loans come with a lower rate and are usually available for amounts between $50k and $10million depending on the lender. Residential or commercial property must be held as security and you may be able to access up to 70% of the security value. This will depend on the type of property offered as security.
Generally lenders will offer up to a 15 year term, however there are some products available where a 30 year term may be available.
UNSECURED BUSINESS LOANS
Loans that can be offered without security are generally available for businesses which have a profitable trading history and have an urgent finance need which can be repaid over a shorter term. Examples of where an unsecured loan may be required would be:
• Immediate cash flow injection with a secure debt repayment source, such as outstanding debtors or sale of an asset. • Purchase of inventory or equipment. • Working Capital. • Small fit-out or renovation.
As these loans have a higher risk than secured loans the maximum a lender would consider is more conservative. Generally loans between $20k and $250k would be considered depending on the business performance, but some lenders may offer a higher loan limit if the business has a strong trading history and operates in an industry which is not affected by COVID-19 lockdowns.
Loan terms are also usually lower than a secured facility. Maximum terms of 5 years for an unsecured loan are typical, and interest rates are higher in line with the greater risk associated with these types of loans.
BUSINESS OVERDRAFTS
This product would be the most common type of facility small businesses have utilised. It is a revolving line of credit usually attached to the main operating account of the business and is used as a tool to assist businesses with their cashflow and working capital needs. Overdrafts can be secured or unsecured, depending on the limit the business is requesting, and the cost for the facility would be determined by the security offered.
SME RECOVERY LOANS
As part of a number of initiatives for small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic the Federal Government announced the implementation of the SME Recovery Loan program. This product is designed to assist businesses who have been unable to trade or had trade significantly reduced due to the pandemic.
Loans can be accessed for business purposes only, including:
• Refinancing existing business debt, unless already over 30 days in arrears. • Purchase commercial property. • Acquisition of another business. • Businesses are also able to apply for a repayment deferral where their cash-flow has been affected, meaning they can access the credit but defer repayments for a period up to 24 months. These loans can be secured (except by residential property) or unsecured. Amounts, loan terms and interest rates will be determined by the level of security offered. Although lenders can determine the interest rate applied the facility is Government Guaranteed by up to 80% of the loan amount, so rates may be lower for this type of loan than other similar options.
The maximum accessible is $5million, with a maximum 10 year term offered.
These products are just some of the options available. The commercial finance market is extensive and business needs are many and varied. There are even products designed for certain industries, like professional sectors, agriculture and franchises, that we haven’t scratched the surface of yet. That’s why speaking with a finance broker is the best way to find the right product to suit your business needs.
At SHL Finance we are helping a number of small businesses improve their cashflow by reviewing their finance needs and accessing products that are more suitable for their requirements. Please give me a call on 0478 021 757. I would love the opportunity to help your small business in any way possible.
Reece Droscher
MORTGAGE BROKER www.shlfinance.com.au
7 Signage Tips Business
SIGNAGES
By Glenn Martin
I have been in the print and signage industry for over 20 years and I have seen a lot of designs that really work and unfortunately, a lot that don’t. Below are some quick thoughts that may help those thinking about how to promote their business off-line. Bottom line, know what you want before you go in, and you will be much happier with the results when you walk out. So, here’s my signage tips for any business:
#1 Why do you need to get your message out there?
This will be the foundation for your sign plan and should be taken into consideration when you ask the other questions.
Are you trying to improve your Brand awareness?
Do you have a sale or special on?
Do you need to tell people where you are or when you’re open?
Does your audience need to know about your products or service?
#2 Who is your target Audience for your message?
This will influence the style of your design, the size, the colours and the information on it. Is your audience walking past your shop looking for a deal, or do you want to catch the eyes of vehicles driving past at a distance, or is your message going to be on a moving vehicle? Knowing who you are marketing to is the first step in successful signage design.
#3 What is the key message for each sign?
We have far more time to take in the message of a fixed sign on the side of a building, or on a window, than on a moving object. Keep your message appropriate for its location.
Your audience need to know in a very short space of time what you are trying to say, so keep the message short, and the font large, not the other way around. Are you trying to promote your products, or your business?
#4 Where are you going to place your signs?
Do you have permission? Check with your landlord, building owner or body corporate before placing any new signs. If you have taken over a new lease, there is no guarantee you have the right to the existing sign in a common area. Check the legal requirements with your local council regarding signs as they can vary from a residential zone to retail and industrial location. You may need to obtain a permit? Keep in mind you are responsible for the permit if the council catch you out and not your sign supplier.
#5 What is your budget for signage?
The old saying you get what you pay for counts in signs just like many other areas in life. Get a good idea on what your budget is and what you hope to see for your finical input. Your budget will dictate not just the size but the quality, location and materials. A solid message on the right sign in the right location should cover its costs quickly.
#6 Branding.
Branding is one of the most important pieces of the marketing model. It helps your suppliers and customers tie your whole storey together. Make sure when you are putting your message out there that your logos, message, fonts, images etc reflect your Branding. People see the logo/colour schemes well before they see the many bullet points on what you do.
#7 Research.
Next time you are driving in the car look around at the various signs and take a mental note on what caught your eye and why. Try and read the A-Frames as you are driving by or the message on the back or sides of the car, did you get all the information on the Banner in front of the local school or church? Look for your competitors, what are they doing, do you think it is working for them? If a sign catches your eye stop and ask the owner how it works for them. Most people are more than happy to tell you their story.
Have a signage project in mind? If you already have a design, simply send us the files and we will be in touch to start the process, including a free consultation and site audit to help your business stand out from the crowd. If you’re unsure of exactly what you want to say, or how you’d like it to look, that’s okay too, just contact the team on 1300 633 902 and together we’ll create the perfect signs for your business and to ensure you get current promotions, follow us on Instagram @Signarama_Mitcham.
Stick to national reopening plan: Morrison
By Matt Coughlan (Australian Associated Press)
Scott Morrison has warned ongoing lockdowns will cause more harm than benefit when coronavirus vaccination coverages reaches 70 per cent.
The prime minister insists high case numbers will not derail a national plan despite some states warning Doherty Institute modelling needs updating.
Under the agreement, lockdowns will be less likely at 70 per cent and become highly targeted at 80 per cent.
Mr Morrison said negative economic and mental health impacts would outweigh benefits when 70 and 80 per cent immunisation coverage is reached.
“That’s the advice, that’s the basis for the plan. We’ve all signed up to it, we need to get on with it,” he told the Seven Network.
WA Premier Mark McGowan wants new modelling given high levels of virus circulating in NSW which reported 753 new local cases on Tuesday.
Victoria is having a hard time getting on top of an outbreak with another 50 new cases, while the ACT had its worst daily rise since the start of the pandemic with 30 new infections. Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk argues the initial research was based on having 30 cases in the community.
The Doherty Institute will provide updated advice to national cabinet on Friday.
In a statement, the Doherty Institute said opening up at hundreds of cases nationally a day would be possible at 70 per cent vaccination coverage.
“However, we will need vigilant public health interventions with higher case loads,” it said.
The institute said hitting that vaccination rate would make it easier to live with the virus, similar to the flu. “However, it won’t be possible to maintain a situation where there are no cases at all.”
Labor leader Anthony Albanese accused the prime minister of pretending the report ruled out lockdowns at 70 per cent coverage.
“Mr Morrison is a barrier to the end of the tunnel, not the light. He’s the gaslight on the hill,” Mr Albanese told Labor MPs and senators in Canberra. He said Mr Morrison desperately wanted to argue he was pro-freedom while casting everyone else as being against reopening. The prime minister insists the opposition leader is undermining the plan and hoping the government fails for political gain.
Mr Morrison remains optimistic the Queensland government won’t keep its border shut with NSW if high case numbers continue.
“It doesn’t matter whether it’s 30 cases or 800 cases, the conclusions are the same and that’s what the Doherty Institute said last night,” he told the Nine Network.
He dismissed the federal-state bickering as a “bit of noise” with the vaccination targets still months away from being reached.
“We can’t stay in the cave and we can get out of it safely.”
The Doherty modelling recommends a staged reopening at 70 and 80 per cent with high-quality preventative measures remaining in place.
Australia has fully vaccinated 30.27 per cent of its population aged 16 and over and 52.78 have received one jab.
Best Coffee Dessert Recipes
COMMERCIAL COFFEE MACHINE
By Ivana Smith
There’s something so evocative about the smell of freshly baked cakes or muffins. That warm, enticing aroma, the promise of sweet delights, of comfort – yum, yum! And what about an exotic dessert to end a gourmet dinner party?
If you are looking for that special something to give an extra zing to your well loved classic recipes, why not try adding a dash of coffee to your usual repertoire of cakes, biscuits, slices and desserts.
Coffee and chocolate – a match made in heaven
Chocolate is nearly everyone’s favourite flavour but if you want a more sensual experience, try adding a little coffee for extra richness. Though coffee is originally from Ethiopia and chocolate from South America, coffee and chocolate together are a divine combination. They are both seeds of tropical plants, both are fermented and dried and both need some level of roasting. Probably the characteristic they have most in common are their bittersweet overtones (which is why they’re often combined with milk to reduce their inherent bitter aftertaste.)
The easiest way to amplify the chocolate velvetiness of cakes, muffins, cupcakes and slices is to add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules or espresso powder to your batter or dough when you assemble your other dry ingredients. And for recipes such as cake mixes that require hot water, replace the water with strongly brewed coffee.
So, if you’re in the habit of making brownies, chocolate cakes or muffins, spice them up by adding some coffee. There are so many mocha recipes around, and you’ll be a winner baking any one of them.
Coffee goes with this...and that...
Coffee is so versatile in that it blends with so many other flavours besides chocolate. For those who love the creamy, smooth texture of caramel but are seeking a flavour with more tang, coffee is your answer. Give your chocolate caramel slice extra tang by adding coffee to the caramel mixture. In fact, any dessert that has a milk base can partner happily with coffee. Coffee and custard combine well together as do coffee and cream. Whisk strongly brewed espresso coffee to milk and cream when making baked custard, a Tuscan delight known as café in forchetta (coffee on a fork).
The fabulous Italian dessert, tiramisu, is nothing without a strong dose of espresso. The name ‘tiramisu’ (tira mi su) literally means ‘pick me up’, which is what the coffee does when combined with the sweet biscuits, mascarpone and cream of a dessert that Australians have adopted as their own.
Ironically, the original ‘coffee cake’ had no coffee in it at all. It was called ‘coffee cake’ because it was baked (by the Austrians) to be eaten with a cup of coffee. It is a teacake topped with a fair amount of streusel – a crumbly topping made from flour, butter and sugar – whose crunchy texture complements the delicate taste of the cake. Its main flavouring is often not coffee but cinnamon, another great complementary flavour that aligns well with coffee.
Easy no-bake desserts
So many coffee desserts need only a few ingredients and are easy to make. For instance, who doesn’t love chocolate mousse?
Now imagine it infused with coffee for that ‘wow’ factor!
For a stunning dinner party closer, try whisking cold coffee and marshmallows together before folding in whipped cream. You can make this before the guest arrive, keep it in the fridge and triumphantly escort it to the dining table, on the principle of keeping the best till last.
Cold coffee granules melt quickly and smoothly. A no-bake cheesecake can become an exotic treat with a spoonful of espresso powder or instant coffee granules.
Let’s not forget coffee slices, coffee fudge, coffee parfaits, coffee kisses, coffee macaroons, coffee ice cream – the list is only as limited as your imagination.
The great news that coffee, while bursting with flavour, adds not one single calorie to your favourite desserts!
With just a small dash of coffee, you can enhance ordinary cakes and desserts with a taste of the exotic. You, too, can become the master chef in neighbourhood – and no one need know your secret success ingredient!
For advice on coffee and how to supply it to office spaces, workplaces and clubs, contact Ivana at ivana.smith@ xpressodelight.com.au.
Ivana Smith
Commercial Coffee Machine Xpresso Delight 0418 393 085 www.xdcoffee.com.au
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FINANCIAL PLANNING
By Warren Strybosch
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Joe Biden Praises Mateship With Australia
By Matt Coughlan (Australian Associated Press)
Joe Biden has pledged to maintain an unsurpassed partnership with Australia as the two nations strive for a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
The United States president marked the 70th anniversary of the ANZUS treaty with a video message singing the alliance’s praises. He said the enduring partnership had been about strengthening the fabric of peace.
“That partnership is as essential today as it ever has been in securing the safety and prosperity of both our countries,” Mr Biden said.
“On this anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to our shared values, democratic norms, global security and the prosperity for the next 70 years and beyond.”
The president said Australians and Americans had built “unsurpassed partnership and an easy mateship”. He noted ANZUS was invoked for the first and only time after the September 11 terror attacks.
“Our Australian friends stood with us in that darkest hour just as our two nations stood shoulder to shoulder in every major conflict since World War One.” Prime Minister Scott Morrison declared the two nations supported a world that favoured freedom.
“Our alliance and America’s deep engagement in our region is essential as we look to rebuild from the pandemic and shape a free and open Indo-Pacific that is stable, secure and prosperous,” he said.
Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese used the anniversary to pledge the first major review of where Australia’s soldiers are stationed since 2012.
“With the US again engaged in a Global Force Posture Review, it is time for Australia too to have a closer look at our own posture to ensure that it fully meets the times,” he told parliament.
The force posture review would ensure the government is looking at long-term strategy as well as short-term needs with the Indo-Pacific a key focus.
It would also respond to the emergence of cyber security as a central challenge to Australia’s strategic positioning over the coming decade.
Mr Morrison said Australia was confronting the most challenging strategic environment for decades. and refresh our commitment to one another.”
China’s increasingly assertive stance in the region shapes as a critical for Australia and the US.
The prime minister said the alliance spanned security, defence, intelligence, new technology, boosting supply chains, supplying vaccines in the Pacific and tackling climate change.
Mr Albanese called for an immediate boost to climate change co-operation with the US.
Australia is increasingly isolated over climate action globally.
“While so much of the region’s immediate focus is the response to COVID, its more profound concern is climate change,” Mr Albanese said.
The prime minister, Defence Minister Peter Dutton and America’s charge d’affaires Michael Goldman laid a wreath in Canberra to mark the anniversary on Wednesday.
Coronavirus scuppered plans for the event to be marked with a face-to-face meeting between Mr Morrison and Mr Biden.
No Power Reliability Gaps To 2025: Report
By Paul Osborne (Australian Associated Press)
Enough new power generation and storage is in place to ensure sufficient electricity for most of Australia over the next five years, a new report says.
The early closure of some coal-fired power plants is expected to create some pressures in NSW and Victoria post-2025.
But Australian Energy Market Operator CEO Daniel Westerman says there are “well-progressed generation, storage and transmission projects, which, once operational, will maintain reliability as coal plants start to close earlier”.
A new report by AEMO released on Tuesday found that by 2025 there would be periods when all customer demand across the national electricity market could be met by renewable generation.
The annual reliability outlook, known as the Electricity Statement of Opportunities, said the transition to cleaner energy was being driven by residential solar installation, grid-scale wind and solar projects and thermal generation retirements. “No reliability gaps are forecast for the next five years, primarily due to more than 4.4 gigawatts of new generation and storage capacity, as well as transmission investment and reduced peak demand forecasts,” Mr Westerman said.
“Significant renewable energy investments, and well-progressed dispatchable generation projects, including gas plants, pumped hydro and battery storage, will all help replace retiring coal and gas plant.” As well, investment in new and upgraded transmission infrastructure, including Project EnergyConnect linking South Australia and NSW, will reduce consumer costs while improving the resilience and security of the system.
AEMO also forecasts a further 8.9GW of commercial and residential solar power to be installed by 2025 across Queensland, NSW, Victoria, SA and the ACT.
These solar systems alone could supply up to 77 per cent of total electricity demand at times by 2026. As a result, minimum operational demand across Queensland, NSW, Victoria, SA and the ACT is expected to drop to a record low of 4GW to 6GW by 2025, down from 15GW in 2019.
AEMO said this underscored the need to improve the security of the system by developing grids capable of running at up to 100 per cent instantaneous renewables by 2025.
Demand for electricity was expected to lift as more electric cars hit Australia’s roads.
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