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Succession is no longer just about who takes over. Many family businesses are using succession planning as a catalyst to reassess whether their current structure is still fit for purpose. As businesses scale, trust or partnership structures can become restrictive. Issues may include limited asset protection, challenges winning commercial contracts, reduced buyer appeal, and constraints on reinvesting profits to support growth.

In estate planning, the focus is often on technical elements like drafting a will, appointing executors, minimising tax, and ensuring assets pass as intended. While these steps are important, they only form part of the picture.

The 2025 Grant Thornton Family Business Report revealed that only 19 per cent of family businesses have a documented succession plan in place. This finding is both striking and concerning, especially at a time when generational transition has never been more complex, and the stakes have never been higher.

The 2025 family business survey found that 63 per cent of family businesses are already mentoring rising generation family members; 60 per cent are gradually integrating the rising generation into decision making and 31 per cent are engaging external advisors to support development.

As family businesses transition from one generation to the next, more family members become involved in the business. What usually begins with a couple of founding members quickly grows to include siblings, and cousins each with their own experiences, personalities and perspectives.

From 1 July 2026, superannuation guarantee contributions must be paid on payday, with funds reaching employees’ accounts within 7 business days. This replaces the current quarterly payment cycle and means 15 months of super payments will be made in a 12-month period – a major shift in cash flow management.

The 2025 Family Business Report explored the mindset of Australian family business leaders as they navigate an increasingly complex and uncertain landscape. While the top challenges varied between incumbent leaders and the rising generation – ranging from staffing and cashflow to succession planning – there was notable alignment with the broader threats identified in the survey.

Our 2025 Family Business Survey revealed a recurring theme that presents both a challenge and an opportunity: succession planning. Succession is often viewed as a pivotal moment in a family business’s lifecycle.

Grant Thornton Family Business Report 2025 supporting and helping family businesses evolve and grow through generations.

For family businesses, this demographic milestone signifies an important moment. As many founders and senior leaders approach retirement age, the need for thoughtful succession planning and effective intergenerational collaboration has never been greater. Navigating this transition isn’t just about handing over the reins – it’s about evolving the business while preserving its legacy.

Family enterprises face unique challenges and opportunities in the ever-growing landscape of business. Embracing technology and digitisation is no longer optional; it’s critical for success and continued sustainability. Embracing technology is critical to ensure future success in your family business. So, what areas of digitisation could benefit your family business?

In today's business landscape, Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors are no longer just a buzzword; they are critical for sustainable business practices. Family businesses – with their long-term vision and deep-rooted values – are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in ESG responsibilities.