News

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is encouraging small businesses to start 2026 strong by staying on top of key obligations and taking simple steps to avoid compliance action.

With reporting requirements, lodgement deadlines and new regulatory changes ahead, the ATO has outlined several practical ways businesses can remain compliant and reduce the risk of penalties or audits.

For businesses in the promotional products industry where inventory management, supplier payments and payroll often move quickly, staying across key tax obligations is an important part of maintaining a healthy and sustainable operation.

Key steps to avoid compliance issues

The ATO recommends several practical steps businesses can take to reduce the risk of compliance action:

• Maintain accurate records
  Ensure your financial records are complete, consistent and up to date, including supplier invoices, stock purchases, decoration or production costs, and payroll records.
•           Set aside funds for tax obligations
  Businesses should plan ahead for GST, PAYG withholding and other tax liabilities so payments can be made on time.
•       Lodge and pay on time
  Missing deadlines can result in penalties, interest charges and increased compliance scrutiny.
•       Seek advice when needed
  Working with a registered tax professional can help ensure your business meets its obligations and identifies any potential issues early.
  
  

Important ATO dates for 2026

For promotional products businesses managing stock, suppliers and customer orders throughout the year, planning ahead for key ATO deadlines can help avoid unnecessary pressure during busy sales periods.

•           28 February 2026 – Key employer reporting deadlines
• 31 March 2026 – Lodgement and payment obligations for some entities
• 28 April 2026 – Quarterly BAS and super obligations
• 21 May 2026 – Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) lodgement and payment deadlines
• 1 July 2026 – Start of the new financial year and introduction of upcoming regulatory changes
• 14 July 2026 – Finalisation of payroll reporting requirements for the prior financial year (Australian Taxation Office)

Preparing for upcoming changes

The ATO has also highlighted several regulatory changes that businesses should prepare for, including the transition to “Payday Super”, which will require employers to pay superannuation at the same time as salary and wages from 1 July 2026.

Early preparation, system updates and consultation with payroll providers will help ensure businesses are ready for the new requirements.

Staying organised in 2026

For many businesses, compliance issues arise not from deliberate mistakes but from poor record-keeping or missed deadlines. Establishing clear internal processes and seeking professional advice where needed can help reduce risk and keep your business on track throughout the year.

APPA encourages members to stay informed about regulatory updates and regularly review their compliance processes to ensure they meet their tax and reporting obligations.

For more information, visit the ATO’s official update.