As the 2026 financial year gains momentum, now is the time for Australian business owners to review their Business Activity Statements and ensure they are not missing out on valuable GST credits and fuel tax credits.

With ongoing cost pressures, cashflow constraints and increased compliance scrutiny, leading commentary in the Australian Financial Review continues to highlight the importance of disciplined financial management and working capital optimisation. One of the simplest ways to improve business cashflow is to claim every credit you are legally entitled to, on time and correctly.

Understanding GST Credits: Claim What You’re Entitled To

What Are GST Credits?

GST credits, also known as input tax credits, are the GST amounts you have paid on business purchases that you can claim back through your Business Activity Statement.

If you purchase goods or services for your business and the price includes GST, you can generally claim that GST amount as a credit to reduce the amount you owe to the Australian Taxation Office.

For many businesses, these credits represent a significant and ongoing cashflow benefit.

Who Can Claim GST Credits?

To claim GST credits, you must:

• Be registered for GST
• Purchase goods or services for business use
• Have been charged GST by the supplier
• Hold a valid tax invoice for purchases over $82.50 including GST

You cannot claim GST credits for personal expenses or purchases that are not directly related to running your business.

The Four-Year Time Limit: Don’t Let Credits Expire

A critical but often overlooked rule is the four-year time limit. GST credits expire four years after the due date of the BAS for the period in which you first could have claimed them. Once that window closes, the entitlement is lost. Reviewing historical BAS lodgements within the four-year window is a practical way to strengthen cashflow without increasing revenue. A structured review of prior periods can uncover missed credits and correct underclaims.

Fuel Tax Credits: A Powerful but Underused Benefit

What Are Fuel Tax Credits?

Fuel tax credits allow eligible businesses to claim back the fuel tax (excise) included in the price of fuel used in business activities.

If your business uses fuel in eligible vehicles, machinery or equipment, you may be able to claim credits on your BAS.

This can be particularly valuable for:

• Construction businesses
• Transport operators
• Primary producers
• Mining and heavy industry businesses
• Businesses using generators or heavy equipment

Eligibility and Registration Requirements

To claim fuel tax credits, you must:

• Be registered for GST
• Register specifically for fuel tax credits
• Use eligible fuel for eligible business activities

Not all fuel use qualifies.

For example:

• Fuel used in passenger vehicles or light vehicles travelling on public roads is generally not eligible due to the road user charge.
• Heavy vehicles and off-road machinery may qualify at different indexed rates.

Fuel tax credit rates are indexed twice a year and vary depending on the type of fuel and activity. Given the complexity, professional advice is often critical to ensure correct calculation and compliance.

The Four-Year Rule Also Applies

Like GST credits, fuel tax credits are also subject to a four-year time limit from the BAS due date for the period when the credit could first have been claimed.Failing to review eligibility within this timeframe can result in permanently lost refunds.

BAS Accuracy and Cashflow Strategy in 2026

Recent business coverage in the Australian Financial Review has focused heavily on working capital management, rising operating costs and the importance of strong governance practices. Accurate BAS preparation is a core part of that governance.

Your BAS is not simply a compliance form. It is a financial checkpoint that reflects:

• GST collected
• GST paid
• PAYG withholding
• PAYG instalments
• Fuel tax credits

Treating BAS lodgement as a strategic cashflow review rather than a last-minute compliance task can materially improve financial outcomes.

Should You Amend a Past BAS or Claim Now?

If you identify missed GST or fuel tax credits, you may be able to:

• Correct the error in a later BAS, subject to correction limits
• Lodge an amendment for the original BAS period

The appropriate approach depends on the size of the adjustment and ATO correction thresholds.

A registered tax agent can assess:

• Whether your fuel use qualifies
• Which credit rates apply
• Whether amendments are required
• How to minimise compliance risk

Start the Year Right: Review Before It’s Too Late

Do not leave BAS reviews or credit assessments until deadlines are looming.

By proactively reviewing:

• Historical GST credits
• Fuel tax credit eligibility
• Tax invoices and documentation
• Prior BAS lodgements within the four-year window

You may unlock cashflow that is already sitting within your business records.In a tighter economic environment, optimising entitlements can be just as valuable as increasing revenue.

Conclusion: Protect Your Cashflow and Stay Compliant

As 2026 unfolds, disciplined BAS management is more important than ever. GST credits and fuel tax credits are legitimate entitlements designed to support Australian businesses, but they come with strict eligibility rules and time limits.

By reviewing your position early, ensuring documentation is in order and seeking professional advice where necessary, you can strengthen cashflow, reduce compliance risk and avoid leaving money with the ATO that rightfully belongs to your business.

A proactive BAS strategy is not just about compliance. It is about smart financial management.

How can we help?

If you have any questions or would like further information, please feel free to give our office on 08 9221 5522 or via email – info@camdenprofessionals.com.au  or arrange a time for a meeting so we can discuss your requirements in more detail.

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General Advice Warning

The material on this page and on this website has been prepared for general information purposes only and not as specific advice to any particular person. Any advice contained on this page and on this website is General Advice and does not take into account any person’s particular investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs.

Before making an investment decision based on this advice you should consider, with or without the assistance of a securities adviser, whether it is appropriate to your particular investment needs, objectives and financial circumstances. In addition, the examples provided on this page and on this website are for illustrative purposes only.

Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information contained on this page and on this website, Camden Professionals, its officers, representatives, employees, and agents disclaim all liability [except for any liability which by law cannot be excluded), for any error, inaccuracy in, or omission from the information contained in this website or any loss or damage suffered by any person directly or indirectly through relying on this information.

Starting a small business in Australia is an exciting step. Whether you are launching a trade business, an online store, a consultancy or a creative agency, the early financial decisions you make will shape your long-term success.

Many new business owners focus heavily on branding, marketing and growth. While those areas matter, financial discipline from day one is what keeps a business sustainable.

According to guidance from the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, strong cashflow management and structured planning are among the most critical success factors for small businesses in their first five years.

If you are starting out, here is how to spend smarter, manage expenses properly and stay on track.

Spend on What Builds a Strong Foundation

Before thinking about growth, make sure your business is operating legally, safely and professionally.

1. Get Your Structure and Registrations Right

Your first essential expenses should include:

• Registering your business name
• Applying for an ABN and GST registration if required
• Setting up the correct business structure such as sole trader, company or trust
• Obtaining required licences or industry permits

The ATO provides clear guidance on structure and tax registrations. Choosing the right structure early can affect your tax obligations, asset protection and future growth flexibility.

This is not an area to cut corners. Fixing structural mistakes later can be expensive and time-consuming.

2. Invest in Insurance and Risk Protection

Unexpected events can derail a new business. Insurance is a non-negotiable expense.

Depending on your industry, this may include:

• Public liability insurance
• Professional indemnity insurance
• Workers compensation
• Cyber insurance

The Council of Small Business Organisations Australia consistently highlights risk management as a priority for small business resilience. One uninsured incident can wipe out months or years of effort.

3. Set Up Reliable Bookkeeping and Financial Systems

A strong financial system from day one prevents chaos later.

This includes:

• Accounting software such as Xero or MYOB
• Separate business bank accounts
• Expense tracking processes
• Digital storage for receipts and invoices

These systems are not about complexity. They are about clarity. When you know your numbers, you make better decisions.

Invest in Tools That Directly Support Revenue

Once compliance and structure are covered, focus spending on tools that directly support your product or service.

Examples include:

• Quality equipment required to deliver your service
• Software that improves efficiency
• A functional and professional website
• Basic, targeted marketing campaigns

The key question to ask before any purchase is simple:

Will this expense help generate revenue, improve efficiency or reduce risk?

If the answer is no, pause and reassess.

Avoid “Nice to Have” Spending in the Early Stages

New business owners often overspend in areas that feel exciting but are not immediately necessary.

Common early overspending traps include:

• Premium branding packages before validating demand
• Expensive office leases instead of working remotely
• Hiring staff before revenue is consistent
• Large-scale marketing experiments without clear ROI

The Business Council of Australia frequently emphasises productivity and sustainable growth over rapid expansion. Growth should follow cashflow stability, not precede it.

Remember, you can upgrade later. In the early stages, survival and consistency matter more than image.

Master Cashflow From Day One

Even profitable businesses can fail due to poor cashflow management.

Cashflow is not the same as profit. You may have strong sales but still struggle if:

• Customers pay late
• You underestimate tax obligations
• Large expenses hit unexpectedly

To stay in control:

• Track every dollar coming in and out
• Set aside money for GST and income tax
• Forecast at least three to six months ahead
• Build an emergency buffer where possible

The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman regularly reports that cashflow pressure is one of the top stress factors for small business owners. Financial awareness early builds resilience later.

Understand Tax-Deductible Business Expenses

One of the most overlooked areas for new business owners is understanding what can legitimately be claimed as a deduction.

According to the Australian Taxation Office, deductible expenses must be:

• Directly related to earning business income
• Properly documented
• Not private in nature

Common deductible expenses include:

• Business equipment and tools
• Marketing and advertising
• Accounting and legal fees
• Business-related travel
• Home office expenses where applicable

Claiming correctly reduces your taxable income and improves overall cashflow. However, incorrect claims can lead to penalties. This is where professional guidance becomes invaluable.

Where an Accountant Fits In

For many small business owners, engaging an accountant early is one of the smartest investments you can make.

An accountant can:

• Help you choose the right business structure
• Create realistic budgets and cashflow forecasts
• Identify unnecessary spending
• Ensure compliance with tax and reporting obligations
• Advise on GST, PAYG and superannuation
• Guide you on tax-deductible expenses
• Provide strategic advice as your business grows

For young entrepreneurs especially, this relationship is not just about tax returns. It is about having a trusted adviser who helps you make informed decisions with confidence. The right advice early can prevent expensive mistakes later.

Build Financial Discipline Without Slowing Growth

Smart spending does not mean avoiding growth. It means being intentional.

Every dollar in the early stages should serve a clear purpose. Focus on:

• Compliance and protection
• Revenue-generating tools
• Cashflow clarity
• Sustainable scaling

Discipline in year one creates flexibility in year five.

Conclusion: Smart Financial Habits Create Strong Businesses

Starting a business in Australia requires courage, energy and vision. But long-term success depends on financial discipline just as much as ambition.

By prioritising essential spending, managing cashflow carefully, understanding tax obligations and seeking professional advice, new business owners can build strong foundations for sustainable growth. Smarter spending is not about being cautious. It is about being strategic.

If you are starting a business or want to strengthen your financial systems, proactive advice today can position your business for long-term success.

Source:

• ATO
• Australian Chamber of Commerce
• Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman

How can we help?

If you have any questions or would like further information, please feel free to give our office on 08 9221 5522 or via email – info@camdenprofessionals.com.au  or arrange a time for a meeting so we can discuss your requirements in more detail.

---

General Advice Warning

The material on this page and on this website has been prepared for general information purposes only and not as specific advice to any particular person. Any advice contained on this page and on this website is General Advice and does not take into account any person’s particular investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs.

Before making an investment decision based on this advice you should consider, with or without the assistance of a securities adviser, whether it is appropriate to your particular investment needs, objectives and financial circumstances. In addition, the examples provided on this page and on this website are for illustrative purposes only.

Although every effort has been made to verify the accuracy of the information contained on this page and on this website, Camden Professionals, its officers, representatives, employees, and agents disclaim all liability [except for any liability which by law cannot be excluded), for any error, inaccuracy in, or omission from the information contained in this website or any loss or damage suffered by any person directly or indirectly through relying on this information.