Cpa Australia Podcast

Learn all about the sweeping changes to superannuation which are set to reshape super from July 2025 onward.   Whether you're a financial adviser, accountant or business owner, this is a must-listen episode if you want to stay informed and prepared.   You'll gain clear insights into:  The new Division 296 tax, which targets individuals with super balances over $3 million  The superannuation guarantee increasing to 12%  Payday super rules requiring contributions in line with payroll  New parental leave super funded by the government  Changes to the general transfer balance cap and contribution rules  This episode covers the hot topics of debate in superannuation that accounting and finance professionals need to know to guide clients, adjust payroll systems or plan your own financial strategy.  Listen now.   Host: Host: Tahn Sharpe, editor INTHEBLACK, CPA Australia  Guest: Richard Webb, superannuation lead, CPA Australia  Links:  You can learn more about CPA Austr

This week’s show is a special presentation from CPA Australia’s leadership, strategy and business podcast, INTHEBLACK. Ever wondered how well you communicate?  Communication expert Dr Louise Mahler shares practical, research-backed techniques to help you build trust, speak with confidence and strengthen your presence.  Whether you're presenting to the board, in an online meeting or fielding tough questions, this episode gives you the tools to communicate with greater impact and earn trust more effectively.   From unconscious habits that sabotage credibility to the secrets behind handling high-pressure moments, unpack how voice, body language and messaging shape the way we’re perceived.  In this INTHEBLACK episode, you’ll learn:   The core components of trust and why they matter   How to communicate with authority using vocal and physical presence   Simple ways to manage anxiety in meetings and presentations   What gravitas really is and how to develop it  Listen now for exp

As tax time approaches, so does a spike in scam activity – posing a real threat to both individuals and small businesses.   In this episode, we’ll explore the latest scam trends and what accountants, tax agents and business owners need to know to protect themselves and their clients.  By listening, you’ll gain:  Awareness of current scam tactics targeting taxpayers in 2025  Insights into ATO impersonation scams, including red flags and pressure tactics used by scammers  Comparisons to previous years, with key differences in scam behaviour for 2025  Guidance for tax agents on how to support and educate clients  Best practices for verifying ATO communication  An introduction to myID and its role in strengthening identity protection  Clear steps to take if a scam is suspected, along with a key message to remember this tax season.  This episode is a must-listen for finance professionals and small business advisers looking to stay one step ahead of scam threats duri

  Succession planning is a critical topic. Understanding how to navigate succession planning is crucial for accountants, financial professionals and those involved in wealth management.    In this second episode in the Tax Time 2025 series, you’ll learn about the key points of wealth transfer and what you need to know about succession planning, including:   Current trends   Regulatory aspects   Tax considerations for private groups  Capital gains tax (GGT) in relation to succession planning  Tune in to gain valuable insights into effective strategies for ensuring a smooth transition of wealth while meeting compliance requirements.  Listen now.   Host: Jenny Wong, Tax Lead, Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia  Guest: Jenny Lin, Assistant Commissioner, Private Wealth, Australian Taxation Office  For information related to this episode, head to the ATO website for information on succession planning   Additionally, you can listen to other episodes in this Tax Time 2025 seri

Stay informed and prepared with the latest updates relevant to small business this tax season.  In this episode, gain critical insights to help small business clients successfully navigate Tax Time 2025.  Key topics covered include:  Current ATO focus areas  Specific tax considerations for small business owners  Practical strategies to support compliance and informed decision-making  Designed for CPA Australia members and the broader business community, this episode offers actionable guidance to help you stay ahead of regulatory changes and support your clients with confidence.  Host: Jenny Wong, Tax Lead, Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia  Guest:  Angela Allen, Assistant Commissioner, Small Business Experience, Australian Taxation Office, (ATO)  For guidance and information related to this episode, head to the ATO website, where you'll find these helpful pages:  Small business focus areas  Quarterly to monthly GST reporting   Tax Time toolkit for small business

This four-part tax time 2025 series provides you with comprehensive coverage of topics tailored to assist Australian accountants, finance professionals and their clients.   In this first episode, learn about the latest updates from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), as well as key information on:  Deductions  Record keeping  Investments  Digital tools  ATO focus areas  This episode will help ensure you and your clients are well prepared for tax season in 2025.    Listen now.   Host: Jenny Wong, tax lead, policy and advocacy, CPA Australia  Guest: Rob Thomson, assistant commissioner at the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) For links related to this episode, head to the ATO website for information on:  The ATO app  Occupation guides  Work-related expenses   Work-related self-education expenses   Super health check    From June 24, 2025, the full four-episode tax time 2025 series will be available to listen on CPA Australia’s site. 

What does good governance in the not-for-profit (NFP) sector look like?   In this episode of With Interest, we’ll explore the frameworks, challenges and opportunities shaping NFP leadership today.  Gain practical insights into:  What good governance really means for NFPs  The top governance challenges NFPs face in the Australian context  The link between sound fiscal management and accountability  Real-world examples of governance that made a measurable difference  Actionable steps directors can take to enhance governance in their organisations  Useful tools and resources from CPA Australia and AICD Whether you're a director, advisor or part of an NFP board, this episode offers valuable takeaways to help your organisation build trust, improve oversight and stay compliant in a complex regulatory environment.  Tune in for expert commentary and sector-specific advice that will help you lead with purpose and responsibility.  Host: Ram Subramanian, external reporting lead

With the federal election decided, attention turns to the road ahead for Australian businesses and the newly re-elected government's agenda.   This special episode delves into the critical economic challenges and opportunities ahead, offering expert perspectives on navigating the evolving landscape.   Explore Australia's current economic position – its strengths and weaknesses – and what priorities the Treasurer should focus on.  Listen now for a comprehensive briefing on the economic outlook covering:  Key priorities for the Treasurer based on Australia's economic health  The ripple effects of US policy and tariffs on Australian sectors  Policy levers the government can pull to navigate challenges  CPA Australia's "three R" recommendations for business and community improvement  How government’s zero-risk approach affects business  The importance of tax reform  Host: Elinor Kasapidis, Chief of Policy, Standards and External Affairs, CPA Australia   Guests:  

In this second instalment of a special two-part episode, a respected panel of industry experts dive deeper into the insights from CPA Australia’s 2025 Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey.  This landmark small business survey – launched at Parliament House in Canberra in March – captures data from over 4200 small businesses across the Asia-Pacific, including more than 500 Australian businesses, providing a timely snapshot of their performance, challenges and future priorities.  From sole traders and family-run operations to service providers, these are the enterprises that power the region’s economies – and the businesses CPA Australia and its members support every day.  Listen and learn key insights from a lively debate with highly respected industry voices discussing critical issues for small business in Australia and APAC.   Presenter: Elinor Kasapidis, Chief of Policy, Standards and External Affairs, CPA Australia   Panel:  Yasmin Coe FCPA, President of CPA Australia ACT Division Angad So

In this first of a two-part With Interest, we’ll explore key findings from CPA Australia’s 2025 Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey, which was unveiled at Parliament House in Canberra.   In part one, CPA Australia’s Gavin Ord unpacks the economic and operational challenges SMEs are facing – from cash flow pressures and access to finance, to workforce fatigue, productivity and talent retention – all within today’s demanding business environment.   This annual survey captures the experiences of 4200 small businesses across the region – including more than 500 in Australia – offering a timely snapshot of their performance, priorities and pain points.  From sole traders and family-run builders to growing e-commerce retailers and service providers, these are the businesses that CPA Australia and its members work with every day.  Part two will feature a panel discussion with industry experts who dig deeper into the implications and opportunities behind the survey’s key data.  Presenter: Gavan Ord, Busin

In this episode, learn some of the key challenges facing accountants in their dealings with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and what you can expect in 2025.   Gain an overview of the challenges faced by small businesses, who account for 65 per cent of the ATO's debt, and the increasing pressures on both tax agents and taxpayers.  Dive into the ATO's renewed focus on tax debt recovery, especially the significant rise in unpaid taxes post-COVID.   Learn the importance of early engagement with the ATO to avoid enforcement actions like garnishee notices and director penalty notices (DPNs).  Key areas in this episode  Impact of COVID on ATO's $50 billion debt book.  Importance of early engagement and payment plans.  Consequences for non-payment, including garnishee notices and DPNs.  ATO's new initiatives to address GIC remission requests and improve timeliness.  The ATO's approach to vulnerable taxpayers and improving service for tax agents.  The impact of automati

In this special Federal Budget 2025 episode, gain key insights and expert commentary into the measures announced by Treasurer Jim Chalmers from last night's budget speech in Canberra.  Focusing on what accountants, small business owners and finance professionals need to know, CPA Australia’s policy experts break down Budget 2025 in key areas such as: Overall budget reaction What’s in it for small business Income tax changes Cost-of-living relief Spending programs Economic, fiscal outlook Tune in for a comprehensive breakdown to help you learn about and navigate Budget 2025, bearing in mind that funds have also been set aside for future announcements. Tune in now.  Host: Elinor Kasapidis, Chief of Policy, Standards and External Affairs, CPA Australia Guest: Gavan Ord, Business Investment and International Lead, Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia  Head online to CPA Australia’s dedicated budget 2025 page for information on the 2025 Federal Budget, including CPA Australia’s pre-budget submission.  Yo

Supermarkets play a pivotal role in the daily lives and finances of millions of Australians.  In this episode, we’ll delve into the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's (ACCC) major inquiry into the supermarket industry. One of the experts who made a submission to the ACCC for this inquiry discusses key issues such as: Price gouging concerns and evidence of abnormal profits Market structure and consumer experience Pricing strategies and trends Perishable products and food waste Future recommendations for fair competition Tune in to learn more on how this inquiry could reshape the supermarket sector and deep dive into issues around the cost of groceries. Host: Tiffany Tan CPA, Audit and Assurance Lead, Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia Guest: Professor Matthew Pinnuck from the University of Melbourne Head online to read the final report on supermarkets by the ACCC.  You can also read the ACCC’s interim report on supermarkets, the inquiry’s overview as well as learn more ab

It’s vital to be across changes in accounting when amendments are made by the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA).  Learn more about these amendments - which are ready for global adoption - and how they may apply to you. The episode covers areas such as:  Reporting standards Sustainability reporting Assurance Ethics Independence Value chains Tune in to understand how these changes affect your practice and ensure that you’re equipped to uphold ethical standards and keep public trust in the profession. Host: Patrick Viljoen, sustainability leader, CPA Australia Guest: Mark Babington, a member of the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) and an executive director of regulatory standards at the Financial Reporting Council (FRC).  You can find more on IESBA and the financial reporting council at their websites. Additionally, head online for further information on AASB S2 and ISSA 5000.  You can find a CPA at our custom portal on the CPA

As technology and artificial intelligence grow in sophistication, dynamic pricing is increasingly being considered as part of a pricing strategy. What are the benefits and potential pitfalls that businesses should be aware of? In this episode, you’ll learn how dynamic pricing has evolved into sophisticated real-time pricing powered by algorithms and data analytics. Discover the critical balance between profitability and maintaining customer trust, with insights on avoiding common pitfalls like unfair surprise pricing and discriminatory practices. Explore the importance of transparency in pricing strategies and understand why businesses need strong governance mechanisms when implementing AI-driven pricing systems. Find out how companies can effectively implement dynamic pricing while staying within ethical boundaries and why human oversight is crucial. Host: Garreth Hanley, podcast producer, CPA Australia Guest: Jeannie Marie Paterson, Professor of Law and Director of the Centre for AI and Digital Ethics at t

Ethics are a cornerstone of the accounting profession. In this episode, an ethical intelligence specialist explores the challenges accountants and finance professionals face in relation to ethics. Gain practical advice on how you can avoid common ethics pitfalls and how to develop and apply ethical intelligence to ensure compliance with the APES 110 code. Dive into real-world examples of how accountants have violated key principles – integrity, objectivity, competence, confidentiality and professional behaviour – and learn how to avoid these scenarios. Listen now for an expert ethics guide. Host: Belinda Zohrab-McConnell, regulations and standards lead, CPA Australia Guest: Brendan O’Connell FCPA, an expert in corporate governance, ethics, and accounting with experience in academia and industry. He is a member of the Ethics and Governance Centre of Excellence at CPA Australia and has conducted extensive research and provided consulting services to both government agencies and corporations. For more guidance

What's fueling growth in Asia right now? In this episode we explore the latest business conditions, emerging trends and opportunities across the region. Join us as we break down Asialink Business’ new Year of the Snake report – a comprehensive survey of insights from top business and government representatives. For professionals in accounting, business and finance, this conversation highlights the opportunities and challenges that the rapidly evolving landscape in Asia has created for Australian businesses. Tune in for a deep dive into what’s shaping the future of this region and gain key insights for your business. Host: Gavan Ord, business investment and international lead, policy and advocacy, CPA Australia Guest: Robert Law, GAICD, director of advisory and insights at Asialink Business, which is the National Centre for Asia Capability, mandated by the Australian Government to create an Asia capable workforce in Australia. Asialink Business' Business Trends in the Year of the Snake - Adapting to Uncert

Stanford University’s Erik Brynjolfsson joins us to share insights on how business can leverage AI to boost productivity, innovation and growth. In this episode, Erik explores the key role of a CFO in the AI era, strategies for staying competitive in today’s digital world, and the AI skills professionals need to stay ahead. He also dives into the future of work, the growing importance of intangible assets, and the ethical implications of AI development. Join us to gain valuable insights from a leading AI thought leader and academic. Host: Aidan Ormond, digital content editor, CPA Australia Guest: Erik Brynjolfsson, Senior Fellow at Stanford's Institute for Human-Centered AI and Director of the Stanford Digital Economy Lab. He is also the Ralph Landau Senior Fellow at Stanford's Economic Policy Research Institute, a Professor by Courtesy at the Graduate School of Business and Department of Economics, and a Research Associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research. Known for his groundbreaking research o

Explore the Hays 2024-25 salary guide, celebrating 45 years of insightful reporting on the Australian and New Zealand job market.  Learn key trends and salary ranges essential for accounting, finance and business professionals in today’s job market.  With input from over 15,000 respondents across 26 industries, a key finding reveals that 77% of employees are considering new job opportunities, primarily due to the rising cost of living.  Discover further insights on skills shortages and the permanence of hybrid work arrangements and gain actionable strategies to navigate the current job market and address talent shortages - whether you’re an employee seeking new opportunities or an employer looking to attract the right talent. Tune in for views and data that could shape your career or hiring strategy. Host: Christine Gounder, digital content leader, CPA Australia Guest: Caroline Edwards, NSW Director, Accountancy and Finance at Hays You can read the Hays Salary Guide 2024 for more insights on the Australian an

Measuring the ‘S’ in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) is becoming more of a priority when it comes to company reporting.  In this episode, learn more about the methodology, benefits and challenges involved in social impact reporting, and what you need to know.  Tune in to elevate your understanding with a leader in the field.  Host: Aidan Ormond, digital content editor, CPA Australia Guest: Adam Vise, Group Treasurer, Strategy and Social Value at Australian Unity, and Chair of Birchal Equity, a crowdfunding platform for entrepreneurs You can learn more about Australian Unity’s Impact 2024 and the organisation’s community and social value (CSV) framework at their website. Further information on social impact reporting is available on the INTHEBLACK website. Would you like to listen to more INTHEBLACK episodes? Head to CPA Australia’s YouTube channel. And you can find a CPA at our custom portal on the CPA Australia website.  CPA Australia publishes four podcasts, providing commentary and thought lea