January 2025 E News
As we embark on a new year filled with opportunities and possibilities, it's crucial to navigate the dynamic financial landscape with both optimism and vigilance. While the Australian share market has kicked off 2025 with strong performance in key sectors, the global economy presents a mix of headwinds and tailwinds. The ATO is warning about tax scams circulating online, so remember to do your research and seek professional advice before making any decisions. If you're a social enterprise looking to grow your impact, consider applying for a SEDI Grant, which offers up to $120,000 in funding. Also, be aware of increasingly sophisticated ATO impersonation scams and remember to "Stop, Check, and Protect" before engaging with any suspicious communication. Small business owners in Western Sydney can take advantage of a free webinar on the 6 February to develop their brand, and don't forget to check out the regular community events happening in the Northern Rivers region. Finally, a friendly reminder to mark those important lodgement dates on your calendar this month.
The global economy has entered 2025 with a mix of opportunities and challenges. While the IMF projects moderate global growth, factors like high interest rates and geopolitical uncertainties are creating complexity. In Australia, the share market has shown resilience, with the S&P/ASX 200 index rising approximately 3% in January, driven by strong commodity prices and a robust domestic economy. Key sectors like mining, technology, and financial services are performing well. Looking ahead, Australia is poised for steady growth, but monitoring the RBA's monetary policy, commodity prices, and global economic conditions will be crucial.
The ATO is warning about dodgy tax schemes promoted online that promise big tax reductions but can result in heavy penalties. These schemes, often involving fake non-profits or questionable investments, can trick honest people. The ATO is cracking down on promoters, with recent court cases resulting in millions in penalties. Protect yourself by doing your research, seeking independent advice, and reporting suspicious schemes to the ATO. Make informed tax decisions and avoid falling victim to these scams.
SEDI Grants offer up to $120,000 to social enterprises and Indigenous-owned organisations across Australia. These grants help organisations grow their businesses and increase their positive impact on vulnerable Australians. Eligible organisations must have a defined social benefit, earn over $50,000 per year, and deliver services in areas like communities, employment, education, and support for First Nations Australians. Funding can be used for business and impact development services like financial consulting and legal advice.
ATO impersonation scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, so it's crucial to stay vigilant and protect yourself. Always "Stop, Check, and Protect" before engaging with any communication that claims to be from the ATO. Verify contact details independently, watch out for red flags like hyperlinks or requests for personal information, and cross-check any information through official ATO sources. Remember, the ATO will never send unsolicited messages with hyperlinks or ask for personal information via email or SMS. If you suspect a scam, don't engage and report it to the ATO or Scamwatch.
Do you want to develop your brand? Join a FREE webinar on Thursday 6 February 2025, from 9:00 am to 10:30 am AEDT, led by brand expert Rob Langtry. This online session is designed for small business owners in Western Sydney who are ready to define and refine their brand. Learn about brand components, personality, visual identity, and guidelines, all with real-world case studies and practical tools. The webinar includes a Q&A session for business-specific questions, and all attendees will receive a recording and takeaway materials. Register now and take your brand to the next level!
The Northern Rivers holds regular Community Events. See what's on and keep up to date on all the fantastic opportunities available and help to support local. There is plenty to do.
A reminder, there are some important lodgement dates to note this month.
Wishing you a year of growth, prosperity, and success.
The WD Nicholls Team
As we begin the year, both Australian and global financial markets are undergoing significant shifts driven by interest rate movements, inflation trends, and geopolitical uncertainties. Investors are navigating these changes carefully as central banks adjust monetary policies to balance economic growth and inflation control. Below is a detailed analysis of key economic indicators, market performance, and investment strategies for the year ahead.
Australian Market Performance
S&P/ASX 200 Strength: The Australian share market, as represented by the S&P/ASX 200 index, began 2025 on a strong note, rising approximately 3% in January. This positive start was driven by a confluence of factors, including strong commodity prices, a resilient domestic economy, and continued consumer spending. Investor sentiment remains optimistic, reflecting confidence in key sectors despite ongoing global macroeconomic challenges.
Resources Sector Leading the Charge: The resources sector was a standout performer in January, benefiting from rising demand for key commodities, particularly iron ore and coal. China's economic reopening and increased infrastructure spending have driven strong demand for Australian raw materials, boosting earnings expectations for major mining companies such as BHP and Rio Tinto. The sector also saw steady price growth in lithium and other critical minerals, reflecting global demand for renewable energy components.
Banking Sector Resilience: Despite some pressure from rising interest rates, Australia's banking sector remains fundamentally strong. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) continued its monetary tightening policy to control inflation, with rates currently at 4.35%. However, banks have navigated this environment well due to healthy capital reserves and sound lending practices.
Consumer Confidence: Despite rising interest rates and inflationary pressures, consumer confidence has remained stable, supporting continued retail spending and economic activity. This resilience is a testament to low unemployment rates (currently at 4.2%) and moderate wage growth, which are helping to sustain household spending.
Looking Ahead: Key Factors for the Australian Market in 2025
As we move forward, the Australian market appears well-positioned for continued growth, though external factors will play a crucial role. The RBA's monetary policy decisions, commodity price movements, and global economic conditions will be key areas to monitor in the coming months.
Global Economic Overview
Moderate Global Growth Projected: According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), global GDP growth is projected at 3.3% for 2025 and 2026, slightly below the historical average of 3.7% (2000–2019). While some economies are showing resilience, high interest rates, slowing trade, and geopolitical uncertainties continue to weigh on global economic expansion.
United States: GDP growth is forecasted at 2.1% for 2025, supported by strong consumer spending and employment. Inflation has moderated to 3.2%, but the Federal Reserve remains cautious on rate cuts.
Europe: The Eurozone's economy is expected to grow by 1.4%, with inflation easing to 2.5%. The European Central Bank (ECB) has cut interest rates to 3.75%, aiming to stimulate economic activity.
China: Growth is expected to slow to 4.5%, reflecting challenges in the property sector and weaker external demand.
Japan: The Bank of Japan (BOJ) raised interest rates for the first time in years, shifting from its ultra-loose policy. Inflation is stable at 2.1%, and GDP growth is forecasted at 1.2%.
Emerging Markets: Many emerging economies, particularly in Asia and Latin America, are benefiting from stronger domestic consumption and stabilising inflation
Global & Australian Stock Market Performance
Equity Markets Start 2025 on a Positive Note:
United States: The S&P 500 has gained 4.8% YTD, led by technology and healthcare stocks. The Dow Jones is up 3.2%, while the Nasdaq has surged 6.5%.
Europe: The Euro Stoxx 50 has risen 2.9%, benefiting from the ECB's rate cut and improved economic outlook.
Asia: Japan's Nikkei 225 is up 5.4%, driven by strong corporate earnings. However, China's Shanghai Composite has remained flat, reflecting concerns over slowing economic growth.
Australia: The ASX 200 has climbed 2.7%, driven by strong performances in the banking and mining sectors.
Australian Economic Trends & Key Sector Performance
Steady Growth Expected in 2025: Australia's economy is expected to grow at 2.2% in 2025, rebounding from a slower 2024. Inflation has eased from 7.0% in 2023 to 3.8%, prompting expectations of RBA rate cuts later this year. The unemployment rate remains low at 4.2%, while wage growth is expected to moderate.
Key Sectors to Watch:
Property: The housing market is stabilising, with national home prices rising 1.9% in Q4 2024. Lower interest rates could drive further growth.
Mining & Resources: Demand for lithium, iron ore, and coal remains strong, with higher-than-expected revenues from major miners.
Technology: The Australian tech sector has gained 4.1% YTD, with strong investments in artificial intelligence and cloud computing.
Financial Services: Despite slowing credit growth, banks have maintained solid profit margins, with ANZ, Westpac, and Commonwealth Bank all posting strong earnings.
Currency & Commodity Markets
Australian Dollar (AUD): The AUD has weakened, trading at 0.65 USD, reflecting the possibility of RBA rate cuts.
Gold: Prices have surged 8% in the last three months, trading at $2,150 per ounce, as investors seek safe-haven assets.
Oil: Brent crude is trading at $82 per barrel, slightly lower than last quarter, due to concerns over global demand.
Final Thoughts
The start of 2025 presents both opportunities and challenges for investors. While global economic growth remains below historical trends, easing inflation and potential rate cuts could provide support for markets. In Australia, the economy is stabilising, and key sectors such as resources, technology, and financial services are showing strong resilience.
Potentially dodgy tax schemes are being promoted online and offered to people when they least expect it.
The ATO is urging individuals and businesses to be wary of tax schemes promoted online (including via social media) promising to significantly reduce or avoid tax. Getting involved can attract heavy penalties.
The ATO's website lists examples of tax schemes they are concerned about. Recently, they have seen one unlawful tax scheme encouraging people to dodge their taxes by setting up a purported not-for-profit foundation and organising their finances to look like their income belongs to it.
Another recent scheme offers would-be investors the opportunity to invest into a start-up that allegedly qualifies as an early stage innovation company, to benefit from the associated tax offset. The ATO is concerned investors won't qualify for this.
Such schemes have the potential to entice honest people who don't fully understand what they're getting into. Getting involved is risky.
Detecting and taking action on promoters of unlawful tax schemes is a priority for the ATO's Tax Avoidance Taskforce (TAT). A recent example of TAT action is the Federal Court handing down $13.6 million in penalties to research and development scheme promoters they have investigated.
Don't fall for promoter tricks
Do your research before making tax decisions – you're ultimately responsible for your own taxes. Even if you get bad advice.
For too-good-to-be-true offers, get early, independent advice from a registered tax professional.
If you've unintentionally landed in a scheme, contact the ATO or one of our team immediately. Approaching the ATO may make you eligible for a reduction in any penalties.
Report schemes to the ATO
Paying tax is essential and those involved in schemes are taking money away from the community. If you're offered a suspicious tax scheme you should reject it and report it.
Source and credit: ATO.gov.au
CLOSES IN 515 DAYS Tuesday, 30 June 2026
Social Enterprise Development Initiative (SEDI) Grants help social enterprises, including trading Indigenous owned or controlled organisations with a defined social benefit, grow their business, scale their impact and further their missions of creating positive social change.
The grants, valued at up to $120,000 each, are targeted towards supporting social enterprises to be more effective and efficient in demonstrating and increasing social impact for the people and communities they exist to support.
The initiative supports social enterprises across all states and territories that are delivering services for people living in Australia who are experiencing entrenched disadvantage, in a range of social outcome areas, including: communities, employment, education and First Nations Australians. View full list of the DSS outcome areas.
Grants are funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Social Services and are to be used to purchase business and impact capability building services from intermediaries, such as financial services, evaluation and impact measurement, business consulting and legal advice.
What do you get?
Funding of up to $120,000.
Who is this for?
Social enterprises.
Overview
Social enterprises may use the funding for:
growing their business, scaling their impact and furthering their mission to support Australians experiencing disadvantage
capability building across the broader social enterprise sector through an online resource available to all and shaped by all who choose to take part.
Check if you can apply
To be eligible, applicants must:
be a social enterprise or a trading Indigenous owned or controlled organisation with a defined social benefit
have an impact in one or more of the approved outcome areas
be an Australian organisation
have a trading revenue in excess of $50,000 per year
currently provide benefit to those experiencing entrenched disadvantage in Australia.
For Enquiries:
For all enquiries, you can email: enquiries@impactinvestingaustralia.com
Source and credit: Business.gov.au
ATO impersonation scams have become sophisticated, making it crucial to stay vigilant. One of the most effective ways to keep yourself safe is to Stop, Check and Protect.
Scammers often create a sense of urgency, hoping you'll act without thinking. By taking a moment to check the legitimacy of the communication, you can avoid situations that could lead to a financial loss or your personal information being stolen.
How to check
If you aren’t sure whether something is legitimate, start by checking contact details. Look up the contact information for the organisation and reach out to them directly via details you’ve sourced yourself.
Next, look for red flags in the message. Be cautious of messages that:
contain a hyperlink
create a sense of urgency or fear
ask for personal information or payments
contain spelling or grammar errors
come from unofficial email addresses or phone numbers. Scammers use legitimate looking email addresses, so if you aren’t sure, always double check.
Finally, cross-check any information mentioned in the message, such as a tax debt, owed refund, or a problem with your account, through official sources. Always access the ATO's online services by typing the URL in a browser or via the ATO website www.ato.gov.au.
The ATO will never send unsolicited messages with hyperlinks or ask for personal information via email or SMS. To help protect your personal information, use your Digital ID, such as myID and set to the highest level you can achieve to access their online services.
By stopping and checking the authenticity of messages, calls and emails you can protect yourself and others from impersonation scams.
If you think a phone call, SMS, voicemail, email, or interaction on social media claiming to be from the ATO is not genuine, do not engage with it.
You should either:
go to Verify or report a scam to see how to spot and report a scam, or
if you have divulged information or paid a scammer money, phone the ATO on 1800 008 540.
For more information on staying scam safe, visit the Scamwatch website.
Source and credit: ATO.gov.au
FREE WEBINAR Thursday 6 February 2025 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM AEDT
Where
Online.
When
Thursday, 6 February 2025, 9:00 am - 10:30 am AEDT.
The Presenter
Facilitating this session is Rob Langtry. Rob is an acknowledged expert in brands, marketing, market access and business development. He specialises in fuelling small business growth based on generating clear positioning, market impact, business growth and profitability and the long-term value of brands. He has been instrumental in the success of a number of start-ups, two of which are now global ‘unicorn’ brands in their own sectors.
About
It is common for small businesses to develop their brand on the go, and as they test who is interested in their product or service. Once you can clearly define your product or service and who wants it, you can then develop a long lasting, robust brand. This webinar is designed for those business owners who understand their business model and want to consolidate or develop their brand to reflect that.
In this webinar, we will be focusing on:
Defining what a brand is
Components of your brand
Process to define a brand using a Self-Assessment Form
Defining your brand personality and voice
Developing a visual brief
Developing a brand guideline
This webinar will be done referencing Case Studies, with all tools and templates used being made available to participants. The last 30 minutes of the webinar will be allocated to a Question and Answer session, where participants can pose business specific questions.
This is a webinar for people from Western Sydney and has a capacity of 50. All attendees will be sent a recording of the session and any take away materials. Upon signup a link will be sent to you to join the webinar. No advanced preparation is required for this event.
To register your interest click the link below.
Source and credit: Business.gov.au
We always like to support our locals! Here are some community events happening this month (in date order).
Bangalow Farmers Market dates on Saturday's, 1, 8, 15 and 22 February | 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Discover the Heart of Local Food at Bangalow Farmers Market Every Saturday morning from 7:00 am - 11:00 am, the Bangalow Hotel carpark transforms into a vibrant hub of local food. Our farmers offer a bountiful harvest of fresh produce, artisan goods, and more. Meet the farmers, learn about sustainable practices, and support your local community. Visit Bangalow Farmers Market and experience the true essence of local food.
Location: Behind Bangalow Hotel, 1 Byron Street, Bangalow
Brunswick Heads Market next date on Saturday, 1 February | 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
The Brunswick Heads Monthly Market is held in the Memorial Park on the first Saturday of each month 8:00 am - 2:00 pm. The market is located on the riverbank, and is within easy walking distance of the cafes and shops.
The Brunswick Heads Markets offer a mix of locally made and imported goods, delicious hot food, and you can also pick up a few fresh groceries. The Bruns markets are a perfect excuse to spend the day exploring the town and the picturesque river and beaches.
Location: Memorial Park, 11 Fawcett Street, Brunswick Heads
Byron Bay Community Market next date is Sunday, 2 February 2024 | 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
The Byron Bay Community market is held from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm on the 1st Sunday of every month.
The market hosts an eclectic collection of stalls that showcase what Byron has to offer.
Road closures and traffic changes on market day
Jonson Street is closed to traffic at the corner of Byron and Marvel Streets from 5am to 5pm.
Traffic is diverted via Fletcher Street.
The Lawson Street South carpark is closed from 5am to 5pm.
There may be traffic delays are on Lawson Street between the Shirley Street and Jonson Street roundabouts between 6am to 8am and 3pm to 5.30pm.
The railway carpark is open under traffic control via the laneway on Jonson Street.
Traffic controllers will be in place on market day.
Location: Byron Bay CBD, Railway Park, Jonson Street, Byron Bay
New Brighton Farmers Market dates on Tuesday's 4, 11, 18 and 25 February | 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
The New Brighton Farmers Market is held every Tuesday from 8:00 am to 11:00 am.
The market was established by the North Byron Farmers Market Association in 2007.
The aim was to create a local food economy; to give the local community access to farm fresh produce and to support local farmers and producers. The Association also wanted to create a meeting place in which to grow and strengthen community.
Location: Tom Kendall Oval, Park Street, New Brighton
Byron Bay Farmers Market dates on Thursday's, 6, 13, 20 and 27 February 2024 | 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
The Byron Bay Farmers market is held every Thursday from 7:00 am to 11:00 am.
The Byron Farmers Market, established in 2002, has grown to over 70 stalls offering fresh local produce every Thursday in Byron Bay. Find everything from seasonal fruits and vegetables to artisan cheeses and breads. They also have a sister market in Bangalow every Saturday. Both markets prioritise community connection and authentic local products, with a strict authenticity policy ensuring all produce is genuinely local. Support local farmers and discover the region's best food and drinks
Location: Butler Street Reserve, Butler Street, Byron Bay
Mullumbimby Farmers Market dates on Friday's 7, 14, 21 and 28 February | 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
The Mullumbimby Farmers Market is held every Friday morning from 7:00 am to 11:00 am.
Established in 1989, the Mullumbimby market is more than just a place to shop. It's a vibrant community gathering with live music, delicious food, and a diverse range of local stalls. From artisan goods to eco-products, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and unique finds at this market.
Location: The Mullum Showgrounds, Main Arm Road, Mullumbimby
Council Planning Meeting next date is Thursday, 13 February | 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Council Planning meetings are held in the Chambers. Click here view Council Meetings and Agendas.
If you'd like to speak at a Council Meeting, register for Public Access by visiting Address a Council meeting.
A livestream is available to watch online.
Questions about the meeting?
Phone: 02 6626 7000
Email: council@byron.nsw.gov.au
Location: Council Chambers, 70 Station Street, Mullumbimby
Mullumbimby Community Market next date is Saturday, 15 February 2025 | 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
The Mullumbimby Community Market is held on the third Saturday of each month from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.
The market is a vibrant family-friendly festival held in Summers Park. Discover unique treasures among the diverse stalls offering artisan clothing, jewellery, homewares, plants, and more, all while enjoying live music and delicious food. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and support for the local historical society museum, the Mullumbimby Community Market is a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors.
Location: Corner of Stuarts and Myocum Streets, Mullumbimby
Council Ordinary Meeting next date is Thursday, 27 February | 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Council Ordinary meetings are held in the Chambers. Click here view Council Meetings and Agendas.
If you'd like to speak at a Council Meeting, register for Public Access by visiting Address a Council meeting.
A livestream is available to watch online.
Questions about the meeting?
Phone: 02 6626 7051
Location: Council Chambers, 70 Station Street, Mullumbimby
Source and credit: Byron.nsw.gov.au/Recreation-Culture/Events-Venues/Whats-On
Key lodgment and payment dates for business
21 February
Activity statements
January monthly activity statements – final date for lodgment and payment.
28 February
Activity statements
Quarter 2 (October–December) activity statements – final date for lodgment and payment, including electronic lodgment.
GST
Annual GST return or Annual GST information report – final date for lodgment and payment (if required) if you do not have an income tax return lodgment obligation.
PAYG instalments
Quarter 2 (October–December) instalment notices (forms R and T) – final date for payment, and lodgment if varying the instalment amount.
GST instalments
Quarter 2 (October–December) instalment notices (forms S and T) – final date for payment, and lodgment if varying the instalment amount.
Income tax
Lodgment and payment due date for self-preparing entities that were not due at an earlier date
if you don't lodge your previous financial year return on time, your income tax return for the current financial is due by 31 October.
Lodgment and payment due date for medium to large companies (taxable and non-taxable) that are new registrations
if you don't lodge your previous financial year return on time, your income tax return for the current financial year is due by 31 October.
Lodgment due date for medium to large trusts that were non-taxable in the latest year lodged unless required earlier
lodgment due date for income tax returns for new registrant trusts unless required earlier
if you don't lodge your previous financial year return on time, your income tax return for the current financial year is due by 31 October.
Superannuation
Lodge and pay quarter 2 (1 October–31 December) Superannuation guarantee charge statement – quarterly if you did not pay your contributions on time.
You can choose to offset contributions you've paid late to a fund for each employee against the super guarantee charge for the quarter for those employees.
You cannot claim an income tax deduction for the super guarantee charge.
If you wish to arrange a telephone appointment or zoom meeting with one of our team please contact our office either by telephone or email.
Source and credit: ATO.gov.au
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