02/09/2026
🏢 Trust reforms put business restructuring in focus
If your business operates through a family or discretionary trust, proposed tax changes could be worth keeping on your radar.
Around 18% of Australia’s registered businesses operate through trusts, with many of these being small businesses.
The Federal Government has proposed introducing a minimum 30% tax rate on discretionary trusts from 1 July 2028, subject to certain exceptions.
For businesses considering changing their structure, rollover relief is proposed to be available for three years from 1 July 2027. However, there are calls for state governments to provide similar relief to help avoid additional tax costs when restructuring.
💡 Why does this matter?
Changing a business structure isn't simply a tax decision. It can also affect:
• Ownership of property and other assets
• Existing contracts and business arrangements
• Finance and lending structures
• Future borrowing capacity and funding needs
Before making any changes, it’s important to speak with your accountant and legal adviser to understand the tax and legal implications.
And if restructuring means existing loans need to be changed — or your business needs new funding — a conversation with your mortgage or finance broker can help you understand the lending side of the equation.
📩 If you're considering restructuring your business and want to understand how it could affect your existing or future finance, feel free to get in touch.
General information only. Tax and legal advice should be obtained from your qualified advisers.