Effective from the 13.11.23 the ATO have implemented Client-agent linking that business owners must use to nominate your Accountant or BAS Agent bookkeeper to your ATO information. Business owners must use myGovID and link their ABN to their myGovID. If business owners do not have a myGovID, they must set one up first. Once myGovID has been set up with their ABN linked, they need to log into Online services for Business and nominate your authorised Accountant or BAS Agent bookkeeper or both, then phone and let your Agent/s know you have completed the nomination process. Your Accountant and BAS Agent bookkeeper will then action your nomination.
Christmas/New Year Business Closures – Be alert and aware of the May 23 changes in many Modern Awards relating to Christmas period Annual Shutdowns. Review your modern award for full details applicable to your industry. Directing employees to take annual leave during a shutdown must be reasonable, in writing and given to affected employees within the required 28 days notice period. If your employee does not have sufficient annual leave accrued, then the employer and employee may agree to take leave without pay, or to take annual leave in advance. Always check your Modern Award, check with Fairwork, check with your HR advisor to ensure your business gets the payroll right.
On December 7, 2023 certain Zombie agreements made before 2010 will automatically terminate unless an application is made to the Fair Work Commission before 7 December 2023 to extend the agreement.
On 30 December 2023 – new rules come into affect regarding Employee authorised deductions. These amendments allow employees to authorise their employers to make salary deductions that are recurring and are for amounts that will vary. Changes clarify which employees are able to validly authorise salary deductions and will provide certainty for employers and employees as to when a new written authorisation is required to continue deductions. Refer to www.dewr.gov.au/protecting-worker-entitlements for further information.