This revision aims to redistribute benefits, targeting individuals with taxable incomes below $150,000. The anticipated change is expected to positively impact an additional 2.9 million Australian taxpayers, providing them with higher take-home pay.
The decision to amend the Stage 3 tax cuts reflects a departure from the original intention of the five-year plan to restructure the personal income tax system. Community sentiment, influenced by a significant rise in the cost of living, has prompted this shift in focus. The focus is now towards addressing immediate concerns rather than pursuing long-term structural changes.
The proposed redesign is projected to boost Government revenues by an estimated $28 billion by 2034-35, primarily due to bracket creep.
| Tax Rate | 2023-24 | 2024-25 legislated | 2024-25 proposed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0% | $0 – $18,200 | $0 – $18,200 | $0 – $18,200 |
| 16% | $18,201 – $45,000 | ||
| 19% | $18,201 – $45,000 | $18,201 – $45,000 | |
| 30% | $45,001 – $200,000 | $45,001 – $135,000 | |
| 32.5% | $45,001 – $120,000 | ||
| 37% | $120,001 – $180,000 | $135,001 – $190,000 | |
| 45% | >$180,000 | >$200,000 | >$190,000 |
Under the proposal, all resident taxpayers with taxable income under $146,486, who would actually have an income tax liability, will receive a larger tax cut.
For example an individual with a taxable income of:
However, those earning $200,000 will see their expected benefit halved from $9,075 to $4,529 under the revised plan.
Low-income earners see relief with the Medicare Levy low-income threshold increasing by 7.1% to align with inflation.
While the proposed redesign is intended to be broadly revenue-neutral. Compared with the existing budgeted Stage 3 plan, where it will cost around $1 billion more over the next four years. This is before bracket creep starts to diminish the gains.
The Government must swiftly enact amending legislation to implement the redesigned Stage 3 tax cuts by July 1, 2024. This process will involve securing support from independents or minor parties in Parliament.
The inception of the personal income tax plan in the 2018-19 Federal Budget aimed to combat ‘bracket creep’. It was also combatting restructure tax rates, with Stage 3 initially scheduled for implementation on July 1, 2024.
Moving forward, it’s crucial to review and reset tax planning strategies to ensure optimal financial outcomes.
If you would like help understanding how these changes affect you, get in touch with the team at Amarose Group. Our business accountants are based in Maudsland on the North Gold Coast and can help you when it comes to business tax.
Contact us today!
