WHAT IS THE EDGE?
It’s an accountants competitive advantage: smarter advice, sharper approaches, fewer compliance mistakes and stronger client results. The Practitioner’s Edge 2025 is where Australia’s top SMSF and tax minds help you cut through complexity, stay ahead of change, and deliver confident, high-value advice.
Earn up to 10.5 CPD hours, join expert-led sessions from Accurium, TaxBanter, and Knowledge Shop, and choose to attend in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, or online. Walk away with practical insights from leading industry experts, ready to apply directly to your practice. Don’t miss this chance to refine your skills and network with peers – register now!
Melbourne
Tuesday 29 July
Rydges Melbourne
186 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Sydney
Thursday 31 July
Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
199 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Brisbane
Wednesday 6 August
Hotel Grand Chancellor Brisbane
23 Leichhardt St, Spring Hill QLD 4000
Edge up and get the perks
10.5
CPD HOURS
By purchasing a ticket to The Practitioner’s Edge 2025 you have the opportunity to attend both the tax and SMSF streams to receive up to 10.5 CPD hours. Attending in person? Don’t worry about missing a session – you can catch up on the other stream online, either live or on demand. The choice is yours.
Attendees can self-assess their participation in this event for accreditation under CPA Australia, CAANZ, and other relevant professional bodies.
Meet the presenters giving you the edge
We are excited to introduce our presenters for The Practitioner’s Edge 2025.
Our presenters bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to ensure you receive the latest insights.
Mark Ellem
Head of SMSF Education
Accurium
Lee-Ann Hayes
Head of Tax Education
TaxBanter
Michael Carruthers
Tax Director
Knowledge Shop
Anthony Cullen
Senior SMSF Educator
Accurium
Caillin Goss
Cyber Security Expert
Priority Networking
CHOOSE THE STREAM THAT SUITS YOU
The Practitioner’s Edge offers an exceptional line-up of topics presented by some of Australia’s best tax and SMSF experts. Choose the in person sessions that matter most to you – then catch up on any you missed online!
CHOOSE THE STREAM THAT SUITS YOU
The Practitioner’s Edge offers an exceptional line-up of topics presented by some of Australia’s best tax and SMSF experts. Choose the in person sessions that matter most to you – then catch up on any you missed online!
| SMSF stream | Tax stream | |
|---|---|---|
| 8.30am - 9.00am | Check in opens and networking opportunities | |
| 9.00am - 9.05am | Welcome | |
| 9.05am - 9.50am |
Navigating compliance hotspots: Key tax & SMSF focus areas for 2025 Lee-Ann Hayes and Mark Ellem Stay ahead of the curve with this essential session on the key compliance focus areas for tax and SMSF in the 2025 tax year. Our expert speakers will break down the latest ATO priorities, common risk areas, and emerging regulatory changes that could impact practitioners and their clients. Gain practical insights into how to navigate these compliance challenges effectively, mitigate risks, and ensure your practice stays aligned with evolving tax obligations. Don't miss this deep dive into what’s on the ATO’s radar and how you can proactively prepare. |
|
| 9.50am - 10.35am |
Click, breach, consequence: Cyber risk in the accounting industry Caillin Goss Attending this session will provide accountants with practical strategies to identify, manage and respond to cyber risks unique to accounting practices. The session explores the importance of cyber-security in the profession, examining real-world case studies and highlighting critical reputational, compliance and legal considerations. Participants will learn how to strengthen their firm’s cyber-security across the preventative, detective and corrective phases of a cyber breach, leaving them better equipped to protect their practice and clients in an evolving digital landscape. |
|
| 10.35am - 10.55am | Morning tea break | |
| 10.55am - 11.40am |
Contributions: SIS v Tax Anthony Cullen When recording contributions for a financial year there are both SIS and tax requirements and implications. From a SIS perspective it’s whether the SMSF could accept the contribution; the timing of the contribution and its value. The SMSF will also need to determine if the contribution is to be included in as assessable income for the financial year being prepared. From the individual’s perspective, they need to know the tax implications of the SMSF accepting the contribution, including which contribution cap, if any, it will count towards. There are also strict rules that apply to member contributions being claimed as an income tax deduction. In this session we will review the contribution acceptance rules; requirements for claiming an income tax deduction for personal contributions and the contribution cap implications. |
2025 Tax highlights: All the latest tax news Lee-Ann Hayes Stay ahead of the curve with a comprehensive update on the ever-evolving tax landscape. This session will explore the most important tax developments and legislative changes shaping the year ahead. From Federal Budget announcements and ATO rulings to court decisions and key policy updates, we’ll cover the news that matters most to accountants. You’ll gain practical insights into how these changes may impact your clients and your compliance obligations, with expert commentary designed to help you interpret and apply the information confidently in your practice. Whether you're looking to stay compliant, maximise opportunities, or simply keep informed, this session ensures you're up to date with the latest in tax. |
| 11.40am - 12.25pm |
Focus on the ATO’s revised pension ruling (TR 2013/5) Mark Ellem This session will guide accountants through practical steps for handling a pension that has failed the minimum pension requirement in an SMSF. We’ll cover the ATO’s latest update to TR 2013/5, which means a failed pension can’t simply recommence—it must be formally commuted and a new pension commenced. Learn how this scenario affects the preparation of annual financial statements and SMSF returns, including the management of ECPI claims, transfer balance account reporting, and recalculating tax components. Discover the essential actions and documentation required, ensuring compliance and efficient outcomes for your SMSF clients. |
Family trust elections: where it all goes wrong Michael Carruthers Family trust elections (FTEs) can be a powerful tax planning tool, but when things go wrong, the consequences can be serious and costly. This practical session shines a spotlight on how and why FTEs sometimes fail to achieve a tax-efficient outcome in real-world scenarios. We'll walk through real-life horror stories, illustrating how small oversights or misunderstandings can lead to significant tax liabilities, penalties, and the loss of access to tax concessions. We'll explore the most common problem areas, including incorrect elections, timing errors, and issues with test individuals and family groups. Most importantly, you'll learn how to identify risks early and implement strategies to avoid costly mistakes. Packed with practical tips, this session will help you navigate the complexities of FTEs with confidence and ensure your clients stay on the right side of the rules. |
| 12.25pm - 1.10pm | Lunch break | |
| 1.10pm - 1.55pm |
SMSFs & related parties: Navigating compliance & tax pitfalls Anthony Cullen Dealing with a related party in an SMSF comes with strict superannuation compliance and tax considerations. This session will break down the rules governing when an SMSF can and cannot transact with related parties, covering key areas such as in-house asset restrictions, arm’s length dealings, and exemptions under super law. Beyond compliance, we’ll explore the income tax implications, including how transactions with related parties impact non-arm’s length income (NALI). Understanding these rules is crucial to ensuring SMSFs avoid penalties and remain compliant with both the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act (SIS) and tax law. |
Building in my backyard Lee-Ann Hayes With rising property values and increasing interest in small-scale developments, many Australians are looking to unlock the wealth in their own backyard. But what are the tax implications of subdividing, building, or selling part of your private residence? This session is your one-stop shop for understanding the complex web of tax and GST consequences that can arise when individuals turn property into profit. We’ll explore key considerations such as how to distinguish between a mere realisation of a capital asset and carrying on an enterprise, what triggers GST registration and liability, and how the main residence exemption and capital gains tax rules apply. Packed with practical examples, this session will help you identify the tax risks and planning opportunities for clients looking to capitalise on their land. Whether it’s a simple subdivision or a more substantial development, you’ll gain the tools to provide confident, compliant advice. |
| 1.55pm - 2.40pm |
SMSF financial statements: Getting it right & staying compliant Mark Ellem Preparing annual financial statements for an SMSF isn’t just a compliance exercise—it’s a critical process that impacts member entitlements, tax calculations, and overall fund integrity. This session will break down what needs to be included, from the Statement of Financial Position and Operating Statement to the often-overlooked notes to the financial statements—why they matter and what they should disclose. We’ll also explore the importance of member statements, how tax-effect accounting applies to various super related caps and concessions, and why there may be different outcomes for allocating income, expenses, and tax—particularly when NALI or retirement-phase pensions are involved. Finally, we’ll clarify signing requirements, who is responsible, and why the timing of signing the SMSF annual return is crucial. |
Division 7A mythBusters Michael Carruthers Division 7A continues to be one of the most misunderstood and mismanaged areas of tax compliance for private companies and the ATO knows it. In this myth-busting session, we separate fact from fiction and tackle the most common misconceptions that lead to costly mistakes. We’ll explore the good, the bad and the downright ugly aspects of Division 7A, including how fundamental aspects of the rules are commonly misapplied or overlooked. Whether you’re confident with Division 7A or still navigating its complexities, this session will arm you with practical knowledge and clarity to manage risk, avoid traps, and provide better outcomes for your clients. |
| 2.40pm - 3.00pm | Afternoon tea | |
| 3.00pm - 3.45pm |
LRBAs in SMSFs: Risks, tax traps & compliance essentials Anthony Cullen Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangements (LRBAs) can be a powerful strategy for SMSFs, but they come with complex risks and compliance challenges. This session will explore what happens when the asset value drops below the loan balance, the implications of loan forgiveness, and how contribution caps come into play. We’ll also cover key audit issues, including who should hold the property title and who provides security to the lender, ensuring the arrangement is structured correctly. The session will also delve into GST considerations, including who needs to register for GST and how it applies on purchases and sales. Finally, we’ll look at the impact of LRBAs on Total Superannuation Balance (TSB) and how an increase in TSB can affect contributions and tax liabilities. |
Year-end case studies Lee-Ann Hayes It is always the perfect time to sharpen your focus on the practical challenges and opportunities that arise during year-end work. This session takes a hands-on approach, using a series of real-world case studies to highlight the key tips, traps, and technical issues you need to be across. We’ll cover common scenarios that accountants regularly face such as timing of deductions, trust distributions, Division 7A compliance, superannuation contributions, and more; illustrating how to identify potential red flags and apply best-practice solutions. Whether you’re working through final reconciliations, planning strategies for your clients, or just trying to stay on top of the compliance minefield, this session will give you valuable insights and practical takeaways to ensure a smoother, smarter year-end process. |
| 3.45pm - 4.30pm |
SMSF Q&A: Your compliance & tax questions answered Mark Ellem and Anthony Cullen To wrap up the day, this interactive Q&A session gives attendees the opportunity to ask their burning SMSF compliance and tax questions directly to our expert presenters. Whether it’s a tricky audit related issue, tax treatment concern, or a complex compliance scenario, this is your chance to get clarity on real-world challenges. No scripted presentations—just straight answers and practical insights tailored to the questions that matter most to you. This session is designed to ensure you walk away with a deeper understanding of SMSF best practices, confident in tackling the issues that impact your clients and funds. |
Hot issues: Those burning helpdesk and other questions Michael Carruthers To wrap up the day, join us for an interactive Q&A session where no question is too big, small, or curly. This is your chance to bring forward the tricky client scenarios, grey areas, and persistent tax questions that have been keeping you up at night. Drawing on the most common helpdesk queries and real practitioner challenges, our expert presenters will tackle the hot-button issues that matter most to you. Whether it’s recent legislative changes, compliance uncertainties, or simply a second opinion on a complex case, this session is designed to provide clarity, context, and practical guidance. Come ready to engage, learn, and leave with answers that make a real difference to your work. |
| 4.30pm - 4.35pm | Wrap up | |
While we aim to deliver the advertised agenda, program details are provisional and may be updated as planning progresses. Final schedule will be confirmed closer to the event.
GET IN CONTACT
Contact us today to learn more.
Groups of four or more enjoy special discounts during checkout.
MEET OUR EVENT PARTNERS
We are excited to introduce our event partners for The Practitioner’s Edge 2025.
MEET OUR EDUCATION PARTNERS
We are excited to introduce our education partners for The Practitioner’s Edge 2025.
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A SPONSOR?
Email hello@thepractitionersedge.com.au to register your interest.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We have answered your most asked questions below, if you want to find out more please email hello@thepractitionersedge.com.au.
Who is the event for?
This event is ideal for accountants, tax professionals, and advisers looking to stay current on SMSF and tax changes while earning CPD hours.
What topics will be covered?
The event includes two streams, SMSF and tax. Attendees can tailor their experience by choosing sessions across both streams.
Can I change an attendee name after registration?
Yes. You can request a name change by contacting our support team before the event.
Who do I contact if I have questions or issues?
You can email our support team at hello@thepractitionersedge.com.au or use the contact form on the website for assistance.
How many CPD hours can I earn?
You can earn up to 10.5 CPD hours by attending sessions across both SMSF and tax streams.
Can I switch between streams?
Yes! You have the flexibility to attend sessions from both SMSF and tax streams.
What happens if I can’t attend one of the sessions?
Not a problem! All attendees can access the online recordings for the event after the online event have concluded.
Will sessions be recorded?
Yes, recordings for the online session will be made available to registered attendees after the online event, so you can revisit the content at your convenience.
Can I register multiple people in one order?
Yes! Group pricing is available, and discounts are applied automatically based on the number of attendees in the same order.