Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Advice and Planning
Capital Gains Tax CGT Tax Advice & Planning
What is Capital Gains Tax (CGT)?
CGT applies to:
- Australian residents — liable for capital gains on worldwide assets
- Foreign residents — liable for CGT on certain Australian assets, such as real property
The amount you pay depends on the type of asset, how long you’ve held it, your taxable income, and whether you qualify for discounts or concessions.
When Does Capital Gains Tax Apply?
You may need to pay CGT when you:
- Sell an investment property
- Sell shares or managed fund investments
- Sell part or all of a business or business assets
- Sell land or vacant blocks
Capital gains tax on property is also one of the things you need to consider. The key rules include:
- Main Residence Exemption — Your primary home is generally exempt, but partial CGT may apply if it was rented out or used for business.
- Investment Properties — Fully subject to CGT, though timing and ownership structure can make a big difference
- Land Sales — Vacant land and development sites are also subject to CGT.
Need tailored property advice? See our Property Pre-purchase and Property Pre-sale Consultation services.
Understanding CGT for Small Businesses and Investors
If you run a small business, special CGT concessions may reduce or even get rid of tax when selling eligible assets. These include:
- 15-year exemption if you’ve owned the business for 15 years and are retiring
- 50% active asset reduction
- Retirement exemption of up to $500,000, which can be contributed into super
- Defering CGT by reinvesting in another active asset
Maximise these opportunities by getting small business tax structuring advice.
Our Process for Tailored Capital Gains Tax Advice and Planning
1
Initial Consultation and Asset Review
2
CGT Calculation and Scenario Modelling
3
Strategic Recommendations
4
Record-keeping and ATO Lodgement Assistance
Learn more about our ATO Aduit Support and Resolution services.
Why Choose Us for Capital Gains Tax Advice in Australia?
Getting CGT right is about avoiding penalties and protecting your wealth. Impact Taxation & Financial Services go beyond the numbers to provide solid tax planning advice you can rely on.
Specialist Knowledge
Proven Track
Record
Forward-looking Tax Strategies
Personalised
Support
Frequently Asked Questions About Capital Gains Tax in Australia
CGT is based on your taxable income. Individuals pay at their marginal tax rate, while companies pay a flat rate (usually 25-30%). If you’ve owned an asset for more than 12 months, individuals may qualify for a 50% CGT discount.
The ATO has a CGT calculator and record-keeping tool that helps you do this, but to give you an overview: Work out what you receive for the asset, and the costs for acquiring the asset. Subtract costs from what you received. If the result is more than zero, you have a capital gain for this asset, and if the result is less than zero, you have a capital loss.
Repeat these steps for each CGT event you’ve had this financial year, and subtract your capital losses from your capital gains. Apply CGT discounts to any eligible capital gains, and report your net capital gain or loss in your tax return.
You can reduce CGT through timing (holding assets longer than 12 months), using small business concessions, contributing proceeds to superannuation, or applying the main residence exemption. Proper planning is key.
Keep your purchase contracts, settlement statements, improvement costs, depreciation schedules, and sale contracts. A good record-keeping strategy ensures accuracy and maximises your deductions.
If it’s your main residence, it’s usually exempt. But if you’ve rented it out, used it for business, or owned multiple properties, partial CGT may apply. Contact our team for advice.
Book a Capital Gains Tax Advice and Consultation Session
The right CGT strategy can save you thousands or even hundreds of thousands over time. Understanding capital gains tax in NSW and throughout Australia helps you stay compliant and plan with confidence.
From family trust accounting to high-networth tax planning to conducting annual tax planning sessions, we’re here to help.