Welcome to our September issue of Business e-Bulletin.

In this issue ...

It's Money Smart Week!

Established by members of the non-profit Australian Government Financial Literacy Board, MoneySmart Week 2012 includes:

• A call to action for all Australians to take the next step in their financial health: 'Do a Money Health Check'.
• A National Awards program to recognise outstanding achievements in financial literacy.
• Promotion of existing money management programs, tools and resources.
• A range of special activities and events in workplaces and the community.

Career break still hurting women's Super

Despite incentives and policy measures aimed at closing the gender gap, the impact of the career break on women's super is still as detrimental as it was ten years ago, a recent report has shown.

The report for the Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees showed a 'flat-lining' of women's balances in 2010 between 38-42 and 43-47, as in a decade ago. 

Commenting on the findings, AIST CEO Fiona Reynolds said it was concerning that policies and incentives to save through super had not helped to address the gender gap issue.

"The super gender gap is still as large today as it was in 2002 because women are still spending five to six years out of paid work to raise children and they still earn,  on average, nearly 20% less than men," said Ms Reynolds.

The survey reinforces the importance of making voluntary super contributions, according to Phillipsons Financial Adviser, Katrina Van Gunst.

"Regular salary sacrificing, even a small amount, can make a big difference to your bottom line over time" she explains. 

"Why pay the tax man extra when you could be building for your retirement?"

Katrina Van Gunst is a Financial Adviser at Phillipsons and the perfect person to speak to about building your Superannuation savings. Telephone 5144 5207 to make an appointment.

Builders under the hammer...

The Federal Government introduced new reporting obligations that commenced on July 1 this year. They mandate that all building and construction businesses must report the total payments they make to each contractor for services provided. Payment reports need to be lodged by July 21 2013.
So keep those invoices handy to report on in a year's time, and remember that the reporting requirement is for services only, not equipment.
If you're still not sure what to do, contact your Phillipsons' accountant.

To find out more about your reporting requirements, telephone one of our friendly tax specialists on 
5144 4566. 

Meet the Phillipsons' team by following the link below... 

Are you heading for health problems?

Heading North: Wrong way go back!

It seems that even a man on horseback can make a wrong turn! Catch up with Sam via his Facebook page for all the latest news on quest to raise money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Phillipsons has already donated to the cause. You can too. To donate, for more info and to follow Sam's progress, go to: http://www.headingnorth2012.com/

We wish Sam all the best as he enters the final half of his journey - well done Sam, a great effort mate!

Coming up

• Next in our Phillipsons Forums focussed on accounting systems and record keeping requirements – Tax Workshop 'Keeping on the right side of the ATO's new blitz'