AFS & Associates Chartered Accountants

26/05/2026

Thank you to Connecting Futures Australia for visiting our office again this week with another fantastic group of participants.

Our team shared practical insights around job interviews, tax and superannuation and participated in engaging discussion and activities throughout the session.

We appreciate the important work Connecting Futures Australia does in helping build confidence, skills and future opportunities for NDIS participants.

21/05/2026

Today our team attended the Tomorrow Bound Careers Expo hosted by Bendigo TAFE at Red Energy Arena Bendigo.

It was great to connect with so many local students and chat about the different career pathways available in the accounting industry.

We always enjoy supporting opportunities that help showcase the range of careers available right here in regional Victoria!

19/05/2026

Volunteers are at the heart of so many community organisations, events and support services.

As part of National Volunteer Week and this year’s theme, “Your Year to Volunteer”, we’re highlighting just some of the organisations we work with that are supported by dedicated volunteers making a meaningful impact!

Thank you to every volunteer helping create stronger, more connected communities. If you’re interested in volunteering in Bendigo and surrounds, please visit www.bgovolunteers.org.au

15/05/2026

Join us in The Push-Up Challenge, supporting Lifeline Loddon Mallee!

https://www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/home?lightbox=/register-select

💙 Welcome to The Push‑Up Challenge, AFS! 💙
AFS & Associates Chartered Accountants
We’re thrilled to welcome AFS as participants in this year’s Push‑Up Challenge, with team members from across all levels getting involved to support mental health in our region.

Pictured are Lachie Thomas, an intern currently in AFS’s Business Services team taking part in their two‑year rotation program, alongside Adrian Downing, a Partner of 17 years in Audit & Assurance — a great example of leadership, teamwork, and commitment to community wellbeing.

“We’re taking on The Push‑Up Challenge to help shine a light on mental health and support Lifeline Loddon Mallee, who provide vital help for people in our community when they need it most.”

We sincerely thank AFS for standing with us, helping raise awareness, and supporting the lifesaving work we do every day across the Loddon Mallee region.

To sign up for the challenge please visit:

https://www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/register-select/?utm_term=lifeline-37

13/05/2026

The 2026–27 Federal Budget has been released, with several major proposed tax and investment changes announced for individuals, businesses and investors.

Our team has summarised the key measures in one place in AFS's 2026–27 Federal Budget summary.

We’ve also published dedicated articles breaking down three of the most significant proposed reforms announced so far:

• Proposed CGT changes.
• Proposed negative gearing changes.
• Proposed 30% tax on discretionary trusts.

Explore the full summary and detailed articles below.

See our summary on the newly released Federal Government budget that reveals a focus on cost of living and significant tax reforms.

12/05/2026

The 2026–27 Federal Budget has been released this evening, with announcements spanning tax cuts, business investment, housing, healthcare, energy and cost of living measures.

There's lots to unpack, here’s a quick snapshot of some of the key measures announced tonight, with our full 2026–27 Federal Budget summary coming to our website tomorrow.

08/05/2026

Last Friday, the AFS team swapped spreadsheets for smash rooms and compliance for competition at our latest social club event at Tap It Inn.

Between axe throwing, smashing things and navigating the highly competitive world of mini golf, there was no shortage of laughs across the night - plus pizzas and drinks to top it all off.

It was a great opportunity to connect outside of work hours and enjoy some well-earned fun together.

05/05/2026

Victoria’s 2026–27 State Budget was released today. From cost of living support to business investment and regional funding, we’ve listed the key highlights in one place.

The Australian Federal Budget is set to be released next week. Sign up to our newsletter to receive an overview straight to your inbox: https://www.afsbendigo.com.au/e-news-signup/

See our summary on the newly released Victorian Government budget that reveals a focus on cost of living, schools and healthcare.

01/05/2026

Looking for a role where your administration skills and people leadership can make an impact?

We are on the lookout for a Share Registry Supervisor (0.8 FTE) - a great fit for someone who enjoys keeping things organised, supporting a small team and finding smarter ways of working.

This role isn’t just about process, it’s about people. You’ll lead and mentor a small close-knit team, coordinate day-to-day operations and help improve systems, all while delivering quality outcomes for clients and stakeholders.

You don’t need share registry experience to apply. If you’ve got a strong administrative background, experience supervising others and a knack for improving workflows, we’d love to hear from you: https://www.seek.com.au/job/91780410

27/04/2026

Proud to be part of another great Bendigo Ford Fun Run this year, with our team once again taking home the largest team plaque with 72 participants!

The event saw a fantastic community outcome, raising $110,000 this year for the Bendigo Health Foundation. This brings the five-year total to $325,000.

A sincere thank you to the organisers for their continued effort in bringing this event together and creating a meaningful impact for the local community.

We'll see you again next year on 28 February 2027.

20/04/2026

The Australian Government has announced a proposed $1,000 instant tax deduction, with draft legislation now open for public consultation until 1 May 2026.

If passed, the measure would allow eligible workers to claim a standard $1,000 deduction on work-related expenses without needing receipts, from the 2026–27 income year. Individuals who incur higher work-related expenses would continue to claim deductions as usual.