19/02/2026
Is your Business Structure right for you?
As a professional tax agent, I often see business owners being pushed into complex structures they simply don't need. Sometimes, the most valuable thing an accountant can do is listen to your specific goals rather than giving "one-size-fits-all" advice.
The Case of the $7,500 Over-Quote
We were recently visited by a 50-year-old entrepreneur launching a part-time pressure washing business. He had a clear vision: keep overheads low, work solo, and maximise his superannuation before retirement.
He arrived with a quote from another firm suggesting a Trust with a Corporate Trustee. For a single operator with no family to split income with, this meant:
❌ $3,500 in upfront setup fees.
❌ $4,000+ in annual compliance costs, including BAS lodgements and financial statements.
❌ Unnecessary complexity for a simple $100k revenue goal.
A Tailored Approach to Tax and Accounting
Every small business owner has different needs regarding asset protection and tax planning. In this case, the "fancy" structure offered zero tax benefit but significant administrative headaches.
As his tax advisor, we simplified his journey:
⭐ Sole Trader Setup: We registered his ABN and GST for free.
⭐ Cost-Effective Compliance: We provided a quote for annual tax returns and accounting services that were a fraction of his previous quote.
⭐ Xero Bookkeeping Training: Instead of charging high monthly fees for basic data entry, we booked two 45-minute Xero training sessions to empower him to manage his own books.
Why Structure Matters for Small Business Owners
Choosing between a Sole Trader, Company, or Trust is a major decision. The right structure should balance tax minimisation with manageable accounting fees.
Whether you are a new startup or an established business owner looking to scale, you deserve a public accountant who prioritises your bottomline.