Uber Triumphs Over $81.5 Million Payroll Tax Challenge in NSW Supreme Court Rules Uber Drivers Are Not Employees, Revoking Payroll Tax Assessments and Clarifying Contractor Relationships Multinational ride-sharing system Uber has successfully contested six Revenue NSW payroll tax assessments totalling over $81.5 million. The assessments were issued on the basis that Uber drivers were employees and therefore payroll tax was payable.   The Payroll Tax Act 2007 (NSW) imposes the tax on all taxable wages paid or payable by an employer. The Act also extends to contractors by capturing payments made “by a person who, during a financial year, supplies services to another person under a contract (relevant contract) under which the first person (designated person) has supplied to the designated person the services of persons for or in relation to the performance of work.”  So, are Uber drivers employees? The New South Wales Supreme Court says no. Among the reasons is that, “amounts paid or payable by Uber to the drivers or partners were not for or in relation to the performance of work …and are not taken to be wages paid or payable.”  The payroll tax assessments were revoked.  Uber is a special case because of its method of operation. Businesses working with contractors need to be vigilant that they have assessed the relationship with their contractors correctly. If your business works with contractors, it’s crucial to ensure you’ve assessed these relationships correctly to avoid potential tax liabilities. Need help navigating payroll tax and contractor obligations? Contact Collins Hume in Ballina to safeguard your business and ensure compliance!

Business Advisors, Accountants and Bookkeepers Poised to Help Businesses Survive As business conditions continue to tighten, small and medium businesses (SMBs) are facing significant challenges. High interest rates, inflation, and a wave of business failures are putting many at risk of collapse. However, business advisors, accountants and bookkeepers have a critical role to play in helping SMBs navigate these turbulent times.  According to Paul Robson, CEO of MYOB, a lack of fiscal management skills is evident in many business owners, leading to significant issues, particularly after six months of operation. Robson notes several key areas of concern, including poor understanding of supplier payment terms, unfamiliarity with credit terms, ineffective debtor management systems and failure to plan for Australian Taxation Office (ATO) payments.  These issues have been further underscored by the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman, Bruce Billson, who has raised alarm over the ATO's pursuit of tax debt. Billson also highlighted a 3.5% deterioration in business conditions over the past year and a concerning decline in small business contributions to the economy, with their share of economic activity dropping from 40% in 2006 to just 33% today.  Despite these statistics, SMBs can take steps to regain control and build resilience.   A trusted and skilled advisor can be a lifeline for these businesses by providing essential services such as:  Preparation of realistic business plans  Crafting budgets and cash flow forecasts aligned with business objectives  Structuring payment times with key suppliers based on realistic cash flow  Implementing effective debtor management systems  Creating systems that provide daily key financial information  Producing weekly performance reports with key performance indicators  Preparing monthly profit and loss statements and budget variance reports.  Additionally, advisors can offer virtual CFO services, act as a sounding board for strategic decisions, and provide tailored advisory services, such as a 52-week business enhancement system, to address the knowledge gap many SMBs are currently facing.  Business owners struggling to keep afloat are urged to seek professional advisory services to navigate these challenges and rebuild stronger, more sustainable enterprises.  Galvanise your business for resilience in the current climate. Contact Nathan McGrath  on 02 6686 3000 for an obligation-free discussion on how Collins Hume can help you achieve a better performing business and lifestyle.

When you’re busy with life, refinancing can seem like a hassle. However, with a mortgage broker to guide you through the process, it doesn’t have to be!  Refinancing may allow you to switch to a more competitive home loan, thereby potentially saving you money in interest.   It can also help you achieve other goals, like using different finance options to renovate your property or consolidating your debt and paying it off more efficiently. You may even consider refinancing to access equity to buy an investment property or another big-ticket item like a pool.  Here are the steps involved in the refinancing process: Step 1: Work out your financial goals Do you want to find a loan with a lower interest rate? Perhaps you’d like to explore some of the interest-saving loan features that are available nowadays like offset accounts and redraw facilities?  It’s important to understand what your financial goals are so that we can help you to access the finance you need to achieve them.  Step 2: Compare home loan options  Next, it’s time to do some research. Trying to understand all the different home loan options available and consulting with different lenders can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Instead, get us to do the hard yards for you. We can explain which home loans may be suitable and help you narrow down your options.  Step 3: Submit your loan application Once you’ve decided which home loan is right for you, we’ll take care of your mortgage application.  Just like when you applied for your original loan, you’ll need to supply certain documents. These usually include identification, proof of income, home loan statements, and records of living expenses, liabilities and assets.  The new lender may also require a property valuation. This helps them to determine how much they are willing to lend you.  Step 4: Discharge your existing loan and settle your new one  When your chosen lender approves your new loan, we will let your current lender know you plan to discharge, or pay out, your existing loan. We’ll keep you informed throughout the settlement process and let you know when your new lender has paid out your old loan.   Step 5: Start making repayments  After settlement, you’ll receive documentation explaining the ins and outs of your new loan. Then, it’s time to start making repayments.   All up, in most cases the process of refinancing usually takes anywhere from four to eight weeks. The timeline depends on the lender, how quickly you submit the required paperwork and the strength of your application. Some lenders may offer a fast-tracked service.  Ready to get started? As you can see, refinancing may not be as hard as you think. If you’re interested in comparing what loan options are available for you, get in touch today. Email  David at Regional Finance Solutions or phone him on 0418785747. Article used with permission from David Seymour at Regional Finance Solutions Pty Ltd, Australian Credit Licence Number: 484980 | ABN: 71 163 893 945.

Unlock up to $300,000 in super contributions from your home sale. How downsizer contributions work and why more women are taking advantage of this opportunity. If you are aged 55 years or older, the downsizer contribution rules enable you to contribute up to $300,000 from the proceeds of the sale of your home to your superannuation fund (eligibility criteria applies).  In 2023-24, over 57% of people making a ‘downsizer’ contribution to super were women. And, the average value of the contribution was marginally higher at $262,000 versus $259,000 contributed by men.   The most likely age someone makes a downsizer contribution is between 65 and 69. From age 65, a downsizer contribution can be withdrawn from super if your circumstances change, even if you are still working. Those aged 55 to 64 generally won’t have access to these funds until they are at least 60 and retired.  Downsizer contributions are excluded from the existing upper age test, work test, and the total super balance rules (but the amount that can be moved to a retirement pension is limited by your transfer balance cap).  For couples, both members of a couple can take advantage of the concession for the same home. That is, if you or your spouse meet the other criteria, both of you can contribute up to $300,000 ($600,000 per couple). This is the case even if one of you did not have an ownership interest in the property that was sold (assuming they meet the other criteria).    To be eligible to make a downsizer contribution you do not have to buy another home once you have sold your existing home, and you are not required to buy a smaller home - you could buy a larger and more expensive one and make a downsizer contribution if you have access to other funds.  Please contact Collins Hume in Ballina on 02 6686 3000 if you would like the facts about downsizer contributions.

ASIC’s annual insolvency data shows corporate business failure is up 39% compared to last financial year. The industries with the highest representation were construction, accommodation and food services at the top of the list.  Restructuring appointments grew by over 200% in 2023-24. Small business restructuring allows eligible companies – those whose liabilities do not exceed $1 million plus other criteria – to retain control of its business while it develops a plan to restructure its affairs. This is done with the assistance of a restructuring practitioner with a view to entering into a restructuring plan with creditors.  Of the 573 companies that entered restructuring after 1 January 2021 and had completed their restructuring plan by 30 June 2024, 89.4% remain registered, 5.4% have gone into liquidation, and 5.2% were deregistered as at 30 June 2024.  In the latest statement from the Reserve Bank of Australia, Michelle Bullock stated that, “...there’s also some signs that the business sector is under a bit of pressure, that the business outlook isn’t as rosy as it was.” Productivity is also lagging. Strategically, managers need to be on top of their numbers to identify and manage problems before they get out of hand. If you do not know what the key drivers of your business are - the things that make the difference between doing well and going under - then it’s time to find out.      A business becomes insolvent when it can’t pay its debts when they fall due.  The top three reasons why companies fail are:  Poor strategic management  Inadequate cashflow or high cash use  Trading losses. It’s easy to miss the warning signs and rely on optimism that things will get better if you can just get past a slump. The common problem areas are:   Significant below budget performance.  Substantial increases in fixed costs without an increase in revenues - Fixed costs are costs that you incur irrespective of your business activity level. When fixed costs go up, they have a direct impact on your profitability. If your fixed costs are increasing, such as leasing more space, hiring more people, buying more plant and equipment, but there is no measurable increase in your turnover and gross profit, it might tip you over.    Falling gross profit margins - Your gross profit margin is the margin between your sales, minus cost of goods sold. Every dollar you lose in gross profit is a dollar off your bottom line.   Funding your business primarily from debt rather than equity finance.  Falling sales - If sales are falling, it is going to have a ripple through effect on your business, reducing profit contribution and inhibiting growth.   Delaying payment to creditors - Your sales are good but you don’t seem to have enough cash in the business to pay your creditors on time.  Spending in excess of cashflow - Trying to pay today’s expenses with tomorrow’s income.    Poor financial reporting systems - Driving your business with a blindfold over your eyes!  Growing too quickly - You’re making more sales than your business can sustain.   Substantial bad debts or ‘dead’ stock - Customers who won’t pay their accounts and stock that you can’t sell. For a business structure review appointment with expert advice, call Collins Hume in Ballina (Byron Bay by appointment) on 02 6686 3000.

Employers Face New Reforms with Payday Super The Government’s upcoming Payday Super reform, set to take effect on 1 July 2026, will mark a significant shift for employers by requiring them to pay superannuation contributions on payday, rather than quarterly. Please note: Employers face daily interest on unpaid super Employers must switch to modern payroll solutions to meet new payday super requirements The ATO’s Small Business Superannuation Clearing House (SBSCH) will be retired on 1 July 2026. Under the new system, employers will be required to make Superannuation Guarantee (SG) contributions within seven calendar days of paying their employees’ wages. Failure to do so will result in immediate penalties, including a new SG charge that carries daily interest on unpaid super. The general interest charge for unpaid super, currently at 11.36% (July – September 2024 quarter), will apply on a compounding basis from the day after the due date, further incentivising timely payments. Employers who fail to meet these obligations will face larger penalties, especially if they are repeat offenders. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will have enhanced tools and visibility, allowing it to proactively identify missed or late payments through Single Touch Payroll (STP) data, ensuring non-compliance is addressed swiftly. This reform will empower employees to monitor their super entitlements more closely and take action against any instances of unpaid super by reporting to the Fair Work Ombudsman or the ATO. In a move that reflects the evolution of payroll solutions and the increasing need for efficiency, the ATO’s Small Business Superannuation Clearing House (SBSCH) will be retired on 1 July 2026. Employers, particularly small businesses, will be required to transition to more modern, fit-for-purpose payroll solutions that facilitate the new payday super requirements. The ATO will work closely with small businesses during the transition to ensure they are supported in adopting suitable alternatives. This reform is expected to enhance both retirement savings and superannuation system efficiency while creating a more accountable and transparent environment for employers and employees alike. This change is part of the broader Securing Australians’ Superannuation Package, aimed at tackling unpaid super and ensuring more dignified retirements for workers. At Collins Hume, we know that running a business is challenging enough without the added stress of payroll compliance. We help business owners manage their employer obligations with ease. Our goal is to allow you to focus on what matters most – growing your business. For payroll help and compliance, please contact Collins Hume's Bookkeeping team on 02 6686 3000. Source: treasury.gov.au

Breaking up is hard to do. Beyond the emotional and financial turmoil divorce creates, there are a number of issues that need to be resolved. What happens when there is a family company?  For couples that have assets tied up in a company, the tax consequences of any settlements paid from the company will need to be assessed. Settlements paid out by a corporate entity can sometimes be treated as taxable dividends and taxed at the relevant spouse’s marginal tax rate.  If you are receiving assets from a corporate entity as part of a property settlement, it’s essential that you understand the tax implications prior to settlement or a sizeable portion of the settlement could go to the ATO.  For business owners, outside of the tax and financial issues, it’s important to not lose focus on what’s important to keep the business running efficiently.  What happens to your superannuation in a divorce?  A spouse’s interest in superannuation is a marital asset and can be split as part of the breakdown agreement. It’s important to be aware however that superannuation cannot be paid directly to a spouse unless the spouse is eligible to receive superannuation (they have met a condition of release) but it can be rolled over into the spouse’s fund until they are eligible to receive it. Laws exist to prevent taxes such as CGT being triggered when superannuation assets are transferred. This is particularly important where your superannuation fund holds property.  A Court order or Superannuation Agreement is required to give effect to the agreed split in the SMSF assets or to execute a rollover eligible for the CGT rollover concession.  If you have an SMSF and both spouses are members, it’s important to get advice to make sure that all of the appropriate administrative issues are taken care of. Where a divorce is not amicable, it’s important to keep in mind that the SMSF trustee is required under law to act in the best interests of the fund and its beneficiaries. Anything less and the fund members may seek compensation for loss or damage.  Can you protect both parties from divorce?  In a divorce, assets are split based on a multitude of factors such as earning capacity, maintenance of children, and the assets held pre-marriage. Many couples don’t go through their marriage with an equal view of how assets and income should be attributed until something goes wrong. If there is a disparity between the income levels of each spouse, there are a lot of benefits to the household in general of evening out how income flows through to the family.  If your partner earns less than you, there is a very real financial benefit to topping up their super as superannuation has preferential tax rates.  The same goes for taxable income. If you can even out income coming into the household, it spreads the tax burden. Good planning can make a difference.  To book a detailed analysis of your tax and superannuation position, call our team in Ballina (or Byron Bay by appointment) on 02 6686 3000.

Collins Hume talks with Rachael Warburton at Byron's iconic Dr Moose T-shirts. Australia's oldest t-shirt shop, Dr. Moose, was established in 1995 and has grown into a well-loved worldwide brand. Giving customers a free hand in designing custom made shirts and accessories that represent their own unique individuality has been Dr Moose's ethos for years and made it a longstanding iconic shop, synonymous with the world-famous Byron Bay experience. Rachael Warburton, Dr Moose's new co-owner, hails from an idyllic Blytonesque corner of England called Clitheroe but grew up as a kid in Australia. In her beautiful accent, she explains how she backpacked her way to Byron, found herself working at Dr Moose, and fell in love with a bloke and a business. "I realised how much I loved the creativity of my job," says Rachael. "The owner wanted a change and agreed to sell when his other business took off." That was in 2016 and Rachael knew how good Dr Moose as a business was — she had been managing it for five years and had already done her due diligence working in the shop. But she knew she needed professional advice to make sure her calculations stacked up. " Kelly Crethar was fantastic. She helped us assess the business sale price by evaluating the offer and confirmed correct price for us." "We're not formally trained in business. We knew there was a business opportunity but we needed Kelly to help us navigate the process." "Everything in the business is brilliant. Kelly helped us set up a trust and she recommended getting wills to help us with asset protection. She guided us through the whole process and it wasn't stressful. It's good to have peace of mind." Expansion streams coming Rachael has not stood still in her new role as business owner. Since taking ownership in 2016, she has personally grown 500 Facebook Page Likes into a staggering 14,000! But doing the groundwork with Kelly has given Rachael itchy feet. "I want to grow the business so our next step is planning with Kelly for our future financial needs," says Rachael. "That means looking at how we can get new machines, revamp the website, engage an agency for social media and move forward to be more successful online as well as keeping our brick and mortar store for visits." "We've got a huge cult following and a real 90s feel. It's important that we keep that vibe." Working with Collins Hume to help structure what they want to do with their future forms a huge part. "From helping us when we bought our first property to navigating tax on cryptocurrency, Kelly has been our go-to for years." "She is accessible, knowledgeable and just a great guide for those of us who need to be directed on how to do things smartly," Rachael added. Dr Moose is a tight-knit, innovative and creative team of committed Moose Techs, flying the flag for creativity everywhere, all from Byron Bay. Check out their uniquely designed clothing and accessories at https://drmoose.com.au/ . Copyright 2021. Collins Hume Accountants & Business Advisers Ballina & Byron Bay NSW

Client Case Study Overview Katapult Design is a leading global product design and development consultancy with studios in Byron Bay, Sydney and Melbourne. Their award-winning team of industrial designers, product engineers and creative thinkers boasts over 30 years of experience developing a wide range of products, from medical and high-tech electronics to hardware and much more. The Challenge As a rapidly growing business with a diverse portfolio, Katapult Design faced significant challenges in managing their financial operations. From cash flow management to tax compliance and strategic financial management, the complexity of their financial landscape increased with their expansion. Katapult Design needed a partner who could provide comprehensive financial advisory services tailored to their unique needs. The Solution Collins Hume stepped in to provide a suite of services that went beyond traditional accounting. Recognising the specific challenges faced by Katapult Design, Collins Hume offered: Tax and Quarterly Accounts Management: Initially providing local tax and quarterly accounts assistance Business Restructuring: Assisting in restructuring the business to optimise operations and financial efficiency Financial Management: Offering detailed financial management services to improve the way Katapult Design handles their business accounts CFO Services: Jamie Doyle acted as a de facto CFO, meeting regularly with the Katapult Design team to provide in-depth feedback on their financial performance and strategic advice. Implementation and Collaboration The collaboration between Katapult Design and Collins Hume has been marked by regular consultations and a deep understanding of their business dynamics. Jamie Doyle, in particular, has been instrumental in offering not just financial advice but also insights into people management, time management and the overall trajectory of the business. His role as a sounding board has been invaluable for Katapult Design, enabling them to make informed decisions quickly and effectively. Results and Impact The impact of this partnership has been substantial: Enhanced Financial Stability: Improved cash flow management and financial operations have led to greater financial stability Optimised Tax Position: Expert tax advice has resulted in significant tax savings, contributing directly to the company's profitability Strategic Growth: With Collins Hume's strategic financial planning, Katapult Design has been able to focus on their core business operations and pursue new opportunities with confidence. 360-Degree Business Approach “We’ve been with Collins Hume for quite a few years now, and what started out as seeking out a local accountancy firm to help us with our tax and quarterly accounts has blossomed into something where Collins Hume has been helping us with restructuring our business in recent times, financial management and, more recently, working closely with Jamie Doyle as a CFO effectively.” “We've got huge benefit out of working on a regular basis to provide detailed feedback on how we're tracking and what we should be thinking about from a financial perspective. It's just really nice to have that sort of advice.” ~ Nathan Pollock, Founder of Katapult Design Our collaboration with Katapult Design highlights the transformative power of a strategic financial partnership. By providing tailored solutions and unwavering support, Collins Hume has empowered Katapult Design to thrive in a competitive market, ensuring their innovative spirit continues to flourish. Elevate your business to new heights. Contact Nathan McGrath  on 02 6686 3000 for an obligation-free discussion on how Collins Hume can help you achieve a better performing business and lifestyle.

Quadracon Building, a commercial refurbishment company based on the northern NSW coast, has shown remarkable growth since its inception in 2014.   Initially starting with just two people, the company has expanded to a team of 30 with three offices along the eastern seaboard. Quadracon specialises in aged care building refurbishments, local council and state government building work.  Key to Entrepreneurial Success  David Freedman, cofounder of Quadracon, emphasises three essential skills for entrepreneurial success: a keen eye for detail, a strong work ethic and a good moral compass.   "The ability to push the envelope and never accept mediocrity is probably the main successful attribute that we have as a business," he states.  Building momentum has been a significant challenge for David.   "Instead of pushing the snowball, we're now running in front of it," he explains. The team’s alignment with core values and the constant drive to exceed client expectations are key motivators for David. He adds, "We have a very like-minded workforce. The team is strong — we all have aligned core values, and I find that they push me as we strive to do more for our clients."  As for many small businesses, COVID-19 was a testing time for Quadracon. Although the construction sector remained relatively buoyant, Quadracon's aged care projects faced significant disruptions.   "Our biggest lesson learned was to not put people on leave and run down entitlements. Keeping them employed, motivated and trained so that when we came out of the other end of the pandemic, we had an engaged workforce which actually picked up some skills along the way," David reflects.  ISO certification has been a cornerstone of Quadracon’s success, particularly during the pandemic.   "ISO certification involves a lot of looking forward and looking backwards and seeing where we can do business improvement," David notes. Additionally, Quadracon's focus on web-based mobile solutions has positioned them as an IT-driven business.  Quadracon has had a longstanding relationship with Peter Fowler from Collins Hume.   Peter has been instrumental in forward planning, budgeting, business improvement, business benchmarking, and RAVDA analysis.   "Peter has been with us since the beginning, so he has seen our business grow and knows so much about it," David shares. This partnership dovetailed into their ISO certification, helping Quadracon navigate complex business landscapes.  David highlights the rapid growth Quadracon has experienced, surpassing their five-year plan within three years.   "If you had told me at the beginning that we would grow this big, I would have said no; I was quite content being a boutique operation in the region. It was Peter who continually pushed us towards greater reliability and growth," he admits.  Jennie Freedman, who is an integral part of Quadracon, has now selectively stepped back to focus on key roles three days a week. Her efforts in the initial years were crucial in establishing the company’s administrative processes.   "We've gone from that to having a dedicated person in Melbourne who just does nothing but process electronically," David explains. This delegation has allowed Jennie to balance work with personal commitments, especially with their large family.  Quadracon's journey from a small team to a thriving company invoicing million-dollar months, even during COVID-19, is a testament to their strong work ethic, aligned core values and strategic partnerships.   David concludes with advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: "You need to have a nose for numbers, be able to weigh up, measure, and calculate a risk, and not be afraid to take that risk and back your ability." Read more at https://www.quadracon.com.au/ Elevate your business to new heights. Contact Nathan McGrath  on 02 6686 3000 for an obligation-free discussion on how Collins Hume can help you achieve a better performing business and lifestyle.

Becoming a memorable leader  As a business owner, you undoubtedly aim to be a leader who leaves a lasting positive impression But in the world of leadership, being remembered isn't always for the right reasons. We've all heard the stories about bad bosses—those who left their mark through mistakes and missteps. However, the key to truly effective leadership is being memorable for your positive impact.  The Power of Standing Out—For the Right Reasons  When you think back on the leaders who left an impression on you, chances are, the ones who stand out did so because they made mistakes, or they lacked certain essential qualities. These examples can be incredibly valuable as you develop your leadership style. Remember the boss who never made eye contact before their second coffee? Aim to be the leader who starts each day with a warm greeting.  At Collins Hume, CEO Christopher Atkinson makes it his mission every day to always greet our team at the start of each workday. This gesture has a lasting impact, and it serves as a reminder that leadership isn't just about leading your team, but connecting with everyone in the workplace. (By the way, Chris was recently recognised as an Outstanding Business Leader  which only reinforces how important being a good leader is.)  Lessons from the Past: Learning from the Mistakes of Others  The not-so-good leaders we’ve all encountered provide us with invaluable lessons. By observing and reflecting on their behaviour, you can steer clear of their pitfalls and craft a leadership style that resonates positively with your team. As Franklin Roosevelt wisely said, "People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care." Caring is the cornerstone of memorable leadership.  Authentically showing how you care  We're not talking about becoming besties with your employees or indulging in overly personal gestures. Instead, great leaders show they care through professional and meaningful actions. Here are some ways to ensure you’re remembered for all the right reasons:  Meaningful Conversations: Take the time to have genuine career and skill development discussions with your team members to show you're invested in their growth  Regular Feedback: Hold consistent check-ins and feedback sessions. It’s not just about what they can do better, but also about recognizing what they’re doing well  Personalised Praise: When giving praise, tailor it to the individual in a way that holds meaning for them. A simple “good job” might not be as effective as recognizing their specific contributions  Follow Through: If you make a commitment, honour it. Being accountable to your promises builds trust and reliability  Professional Standards: Maintain accountability and hold yourself and your team to high professional standards. Leading by example is one of the most powerful ways to inspire respect  Be a Role Model: Your team will follow your lead, so demonstrate the behaviour, work ethic and values you want to see in them.  The Journey Ahead  Your leadership journey is a marathon, not a sprint. To become a great leader, take inspiration from those around you—both the good and the not-so-good—and let their lessons shape your path. Aspire to be the leader who is talked about years from now for all the right reasons.  Be memorable, but more importantly, be remembered for making a positive difference.  Elevate your business to new heights. Contact Nathan McGrath  on 02 6686 3000 for an obligation-free discussion on how Collins Hume can help you tailor a business advisory program to suit your specific requirements.

Ballina Chamber Business After Hours October 2024 Collins Hume is thrilled to be part of Ballina Chamber of Commerce's Financial Wealth Insights Networking Event next week. Set to take place at the Ramada Hotel in Ballina, the event promises attendees the chance to gain invaluable insights from some of the most influential financial professionals in the Ballina Shire. The event will be hosted by Chamber Board member Matt Prentice, who will moderate a dynamic panel featuring experts across various sectors. Together they will delve into pressing questions on asset and debt management, local market trends and future financial opportunities. "I’m excited to be a panellist at this year’s event,” said Partner Kelly Crethar. “This panel is composed of some of the brightest minds in Ballina’s financial community, offering attendees a unique opportunity to understand future trends and strategies that can help them thrive." Kelly brings over 20 years of hands-on experience in guiding business owners toward success. Known for her sharp strategic insights and deep understanding of industries including professional services, construction and property development, she has a unique talent for helping clients navigate complex business challenges. At Collins Hume, Kelly excels in advising on growth strategies, boosting profitability and ensuring compliance, making her a natural choice for the Financial Wealth Insights panel. Her passion for empowering businesses and practical approach to problem-solving will offer valuable perspectives to the discussion. Topics will range from the comparative value of property versus shares, debt management strategies, and considerations for choosing between banks and mortgage brokers, to localised client profiles and market projections for the next year and beyond. The Ballina Chamber’s Financial Wealth Insights Networking Event begins at 5:30 pm on 23 October at the Ramada Hotel, 2 Martin Street, Ballina. This is a must-attend event for those looking to make informed financial decisions in the coming years. For more information or to register for this free event, please visit the Ballina Chamber of Commerce website . — About Kelly Crethar Kelly is a highly qualified and experienced business services specialist with a passion for helping business owners achieve their goals. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Kelly has a wealth of knowledge in business planning, structuring, management, acquisitions, valuations and regulatory compliance, with a special focus on professional services, hospitality and retail, building and construction, property development, health, and larger intricate structures industries. Kelly holds a Bachelor of Business (Accounting & Business Law) from Southern Cross University and is a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA), Xero Certified Advisor and Registered Tax Agent. Kelly joined Collins Hume in 2017 where she helps clients navigate the complex world of business. Her areas of expertise include business advisory around growth strategies, profitability and systems implementation, as well as business regulatory compliance. Read more »