Our audit team undertakes the complete range of audits required of Australian accounting laws to help you to help you meet obligations or fulfil best practice procedures.
There continues to be a spotlight on trust and integrity within the professional services industry. From our perspective, these have always been critical considerations.
We help clients understand and address their employment tax obligations to ensure compliance and optimal tax positioning for their business and employees.
On 10 November 2025, the Federal Court handed down its decision in Newmont Canada FN Holdings ULC v Commissioner of Taxation (No 2) [2025] FCA 1356.The case provides important guidance on the interpretation of ‘taxable Australian real property’ (TARP) under Division 855 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (Div 855).
We provide independent oversight and review of your organisation's control environments to manage key risks, inform good decision-making and improve performance.
We enable our clients to achieve their strategic objectives, fulfil their purpose and live their values supported by effective and appropriate risk management.
The Federal Court’s $5.8M ACL decision signals a new era for privacy, cybersecurity, and governance in Australia. It reinforces that privacy and cyber obligations start Day 1 of any acquisition, governance failures will be scrutinised, and accountability cannot be outsourced. Boards must ensure robust oversight, deep cyber due diligence, and forensic incident response. With OAIC escalating regulatory enforcement, organisations face heightened legal, financial, and reputational risks.
Our forensics team identifies and obtains relevant information, investigates the financial issue at hand and provides a clear, concise, sustainable opinion as...
Our team advises at all stages of a litigation dispute, taking an independent view while gathering and reviewing evidence and contributing to expert reports.
Our M&A team works with clients to achieve a full or partial sale of their business, to ensure achievement of strategic ambitions and optimal outcomes for stakeholders.
Our operational deal services team helps to ensure the greatest possible outcome and value is gained through post merger integration or post acquisition integration.
Our ESG due diligence process evaluates a company's environmental, social, and governance factors during the pre-investment phase to determine the overall maturity of the entity, manage potential risks, and identify opportunities.
Explore strategies for scaling in Australia’s tech and SaaS sector in this report, covering capital raising, investor expectations, and long-term growth.
Our finance and funding team works to access sources of finance, present your case to potential funders and negotiate a long-term sustainable relationship.
We provide effective and strategic corporate finance services across all stages of investments and transactions so clients can better manage costs and maximise returns.
We work closely with clients and lenders to provide holistic debt advisory services so you can raise or manage existing debt to meet your strategic goals.
Our proven methodology identifies opportunities to improve your processes and optimise working capital, and we work with to implement changes and monitor their effectiveness.
Explore strategies for scaling in Australia’s tech and SaaS sector in this report, covering capital raising, investor expectations, and long-term growth.
Our insolvency teams takes a proactive approach so our clients have access to more business turnaround options and retain the most value for all stakeholders.
As this year’s series kicks off in late 2025, continuing through to June 2026, we will bring you virtual on-demand webinars featuring guest speakers, legal and industry experts, and Grant Thornton specialists sharing insights and expectations for the year ahead.
We help clients improve commercial performance, profitability and address challenges after internal or external triggers require a major business model shift.
We provide strategic director advisory services in times of business distress to help directors navigate issues and protect their company and themselves from liability.
We work closely with clients and lenders to provide holistic debt advisory services so you can raise or manage existing debt to meet your strategic goals.
The Full Federal Court has handed down its decision in AusNet Services Limited v Commissioner of Taxation. AusNet argued that its 2015 restructure did not qualify for rollover relief under Division 615, despite that it earlier said it did. This case serves as a reminder that once a tax election is made, it is very difficult to unwind. Careful planning and forecasting are critical.
We work with private businesses across Australia – and internationals looking to Australia for their investments and operations – on all accounting and...
Our outsourced CFO services provide a full suite of CFO, tax and finance services and advice to help clients manage risk, optimise operations and grow.
Having a considered and informed ESG response has never been more important for all organisations as we are seeing awareness of the elements of ESG continue to...
Following the introduction of mandatory sustainability reporting requirements in Australia, organisations will need to understand if they are required to report, the disclosure requirements, and if they have the skill set and available data to comply. We can guide organisations through the reporting process end-to-end, from climate-related risks and opportunities identification through to reporting support.
With the ESG and sustainability landscape continuing to evolve, we are focused on helping your business to understand how to shape your sustainability strategy. When designing a sustainability strategy, it’s important to take into consideration your sustainability-related risks and opportunities, relevant standards and frameworks such as the SBTi, and your broader business needs.
The sustainability reporting regulations which have come into force in Australia include assurance requirements which are being phased in over several years. Australia is also the first jurisdiction internationally to adopt the new assurance standard. Whether you are seeking voluntary assurance or meeting your compliance obligations, our sustainability assurance team combines technical expertise and industry insights to provide quality and efficiency in the assurance process.
As ESG and Sustainability-related considerations are becoming pivotal for Australian dealmakers, it is important for investors to feel confident in assessing transactions through an ESG lens. The due diligence process evaluates a company's material environmental, social, and governance topics during the pre-investment phase, flagging risks and identifying opportunities for added value.
Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and the Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (AUASB) have both recently published FAQs providing guidance on the use of the different auditors for financial reporting audit and sustainability reporting assurance.
The Federal Court’s $5.8M ACL decision signals a new era for privacy, cybersecurity, and governance in Australia. It reinforces that privacy and cyber obligations start Day 1 of any acquisition, governance failures will be scrutinised, and accountability cannot be outsourced. Boards must ensure robust oversight, deep cyber due diligence, and forensic incident response. With OAIC escalating regulatory enforcement, organisations face heightened legal, financial, and reputational risks.
Investment and business opportunities in Vietnam are expanding rapidly, driven by new markets, diverse industries, and Vietnam's growing role in export manufacturing, foreign investment, and strong domestic demand.
In this episode of Beyond the Numbers with Grant Thornton, Management Consulting Partner, Richard Bycroft, and Director, Primo Danieletto, discuss automation in supply chains, triggers for reviewing an organisation’s current model and the ROI businesses can see from implementation.
The Federal Court decision in Morton v Commissioner of Taxation [2025] FCA 336 (“the Morton case”) provides key guidance on the tax treatment of proceeds derived from land development arrangements. This is particularly relevant to landowners considering development partnerships with third-party developers.
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From an active natural resources M&A market, a growing energy and renewable energy market, to new technologies and export and trade agreements – we have the...
Mining contractors are operating in an increasingly complex and competitive Australian mining sector. With shifting commodity markets, cost pressures, and evolving contract models, understanding contractor performance, financial strength, and growth opportunities is more important than ever.
As of April 9, 2025, a minimum universal tariff of 10 per cent has been applied to all imported goods into the United States, while certain countries face higher reciprocal tariffs based on their US trade deficit.
The Australian Parliament recently passed legislation to introduce two significant tax incentives aimed at bolstering Australia’s critical minerals and hydrogen production sectors.
The incentives form a significant part of the Government’s ’Future Made in Australia‘ policy.
If government grants are part of your 2025 strategy, take note of the available quarter one funding opportunities. With increasing inflationary pressures, government grants can be an essential alternative funding source for businesses with critical investment projects.
The Full Federal Court has handed down its decision in AusNet Services Limited v Commissioner of Taxation. AusNet argued that its 2015 restructure did not qualify for rollover relief under Division 615, despite that it earlier said it did. This case serves as a reminder that once a tax election is made, it is very difficult to unwind. Careful planning and forecasting are critical.
Australia’s new thin capitalisation rules significantly impact businesses with foreign ownership or offshore operations. If your business has debt deductions (such as interest deductions and borrowing costs) of more than A$2m, tax deductions could be denied under the primary ‘earnings tests’ (particularly if your EBITDA is low or negative due to early-stage losses, especially common in sectors like infrastructure and technology).
To manage the above risk, the legislation offers an alternative test: the Third Party Debt Test (TPDT).
The Federal Court’s $5.8M ACL decision signals a new era for privacy, cybersecurity, and governance in Australia. It reinforces that privacy and cyber obligations start Day 1 of any acquisition, governance failures will be scrutinised, and accountability cannot be outsourced. Boards must ensure robust oversight, deep cyber due diligence, and forensic incident response. With OAIC escalating regulatory enforcement, organisations face heightened legal, financial, and reputational risks.
In June this year, APRA published its eight proposed changes to its governance prudential standards. We have summarised APRA’s updated/clarified position and provided guidance on some steps that boards should be doing to prepare for the revised standards.
The Federal Court’s $5.8M ACL decision signals a new era for privacy, cybersecurity, and governance in Australia. It reinforces that privacy and cyber obligations start Day 1 of any acquisition, governance failures will be scrutinised, and accountability cannot be outsourced. Boards must ensure robust oversight, deep cyber due diligence, and forensic incident response. With OAIC escalating regulatory enforcement, organisations face heightened legal, financial, and reputational risks.
The health and aged care industry in Australia is complex and there are a range of challenges and opportunities for the banking sector which can be explored in relation to its various sub-sectors.
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In this episode of Beyond the Numbers with Grant Thornton, Management Consulting Partner, Richard Bycroft, and Director, Primo Danieletto, discuss automation in supply chains, triggers for reviewing an organisation’s current model and the ROI businesses can see from implementation.
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Against a backdrop of rising cost-of-living pressures and economic uncertainty, Not for Profits (NFPs) are facing increasingly complex challenges to maintain financial sustainability. With public expectations rising, funding pathways under strain, and operational costs climbing, many organisations are being forced to reassess how they operate. While the pressures are real, this also creates an opportunity to rethink collaboration, strengthen governance and build long-term resilience.
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Yalari is a not-for-profit organisation offering secondary education scholarships to Australian schools for First Nations students. The organisation champions the value of education and nurtures an encouraging community for students to thrive in their studies.
The Full Federal Court has handed down its decision in AusNet Services Limited v Commissioner of Taxation. AusNet argued that its 2015 restructure did not qualify for rollover relief under Division 615, despite that it earlier said it did. This case serves as a reminder that once a tax election is made, it is very difficult to unwind. Careful planning and forecasting are critical.
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To manage the above risk, the legislation offers an alternative test: the Third Party Debt Test (TPDT).
Australia has commenced reforming its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CTF) regime including the ‘Tranche 2’ reforms, which expand AML/CTF compliance to apply to additional professions including lawyers.
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Australia has commenced reforming its Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CTF) regime including the ‘Tranche 2’ reforms, which expand AML/CTF compliance to apply to additional professions including real estate agents and conveyancers.
Mandatory sustainability reporting under AASB S2 will apply to Australian property and corporate entities meeting size thresholds from 2025, requiring disclosure of climate-related risks, emissions, and transition strategies. Early preparation is essential for compliance and to create long-term value.
In this episode of Beyond the Numbers with Grant Thornton, Management Consulting Partner, Richard Bycroft, and Director, Primo Danieletto, discuss automation in supply chains, triggers for reviewing an organisation’s current model and the ROI businesses can see from implementation.
Australian consumers are demanding more from retailers – better value, faster service, and consistently high quality. Discover what drives Australian retail and how to meet rising expectations.
The Federal Court’s $5.8M ACL decision signals a new era for privacy, cybersecurity, and governance in Australia. It reinforces that privacy and cyber obligations start Day 1 of any acquisition, governance failures will be scrutinised, and accountability cannot be outsourced. Boards must ensure robust oversight, deep cyber due diligence, and forensic incident response. With OAIC escalating regulatory enforcement, organisations face heightened legal, financial, and reputational risks.
In this episode, National Head of Corporate Finance & M&A Partner Holly Stiles and National Head of Technology, Media & Telecommunications and Private Business Tax & Advisory Partner Jace Gawne-Buckland discuss the current technology landscape in Australia, evolving expectations of investors, and tangible steps tech leaders can take to strengthen their position for future raises or exits.
Explore strategies for scaling in Australia’s tech and SaaS sector in this report, covering capital raising, investor expectations, and long-term growth.
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The AML/CTF Act 2024 introduces stricter governance requirements, including a designated responsible officer, enhanced board oversight, and a shift from a prescriptive to a risk-based, outcomes-focused compliance model.
Both existing reporting entities and new entrants under Tranche 2 (lawyers, accountants, real estate agents, etc.) must comply. Deadlines are 31 March 2026 for current entities and 1 July 2026 for new ones.
Boards and senior leaders should start now by reviewing governance structures, appointing a qualified AML/CTF compliance officer, and implementing a documented risk-based framework to ensure readiness before compliance deadlines.
Board and senior management governance and oversight is a key component of an organisation's Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing (AML/CTF) compliance framework.
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Their involvement – along with business leaders and the AML/CTF compliance officer – ensures effective ML/TF risk management, ongoing AML/CTF compliance, the successful definition and embedding of an organisation's AML/CTF compliance culture.
What’s changing?
The reformed AML/CTF Act 2024 introduces specific governance requirements for the governing body, the concept of a responsible officer, and sets out the role and responsibilities of the AML/CTF compliance officer. The Act emphasises a more detailed and proactive approach, mandating explicit risk-based assessments, regular reviews, and a stronger focus on resource allocation and training.
In other words, the reforms shift governance from a “tick-the-box” approach to an outcomes-based, risk-responsive model, requiring Boards and senior managers to demonstrate proactive oversight and accountability.
These governance requirements apply to both:
Pre-existing reporting entities including financial institutions, gaming and betting, and financial services entities that will need to consider the changes to the legislation by 31 March 2026.
New entrants including the ‘Tranche 2’ reforms, which expand AML/CTF compliance to apply from 1 July 2026 to additional professions including lawyers, accountants, real estate agents, property developers, and precious stone dealers.
Effective governance is critical
Governance plays a crucial role in relation to AML/CTF, as both the Board and business leaders are responsible for setting the organisational tone and ensuring adequate resources such as personnel, technology, and financial investment are allocated to AML/CTF compliance.
The governing body must ensure the ML/TF risks associated with the organisation’s operations, products, services, and customer base are understood, and that the AML/CTF program aligns with the AML/CTF Act obligations and AML/CTF Rule requirements, addressing the specific ML/TF risks the organisation faces.
We have identified the following key actions for Boards and business leaders on AML/CTF reform readiness:
Active oversight: Boards and governing bodies must take an active role in AML/CTF compliance, moving beyond passive approval to ongoing oversight of program effectiveness.
Tone at the top: Establish a strong compliance culture, with governance committees regularly reviewing AML/CTF risks, breaches, and regulatory changes.
Enterprise-Wide Risk Assessment (EWRA): Maintain a documented ML/TF and proliferation financing risk assessment that is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in business operations, customer profiles, and regulatory expectations.
Dynamic policies: AML/CTF programs must be risk-driven and outcomes-focused, replacing the old prescriptive Part A/Part B structure with integrated governance and control measures.
AML/CTF Compliance Officer: Appoint a fit and proper compliance officer with authority and resources to implement and monitor the program.
Three lines of defence: Ensure governance structures support independent oversight, internal audit, and operational compliance functions.
Regular Board reporting: Provide AML/CTF compliance reports to the governing body at least annually (or more frequently if required), including independent evaluation results and updates to risk assessments.
Regulatory communication: Maintain proactive engagement with AUSTRAC, including timely enrolment updates and reporting obligations (SMRs, TTRs, compliance reports).
Periodic reviews: Conduct independent evaluations of AML/CTF programs and ensure findings are escalated to senior management and boards.
Adaptive governance: Demonstrate that governance frameworks evolve with emerging risks and regulatory changes, focusing on effectiveness rather than mere compliance.
For entities in a reporting group, governance must clarify the role of the lead entity, ensuring it has capacity to set AML/CTF policy outcomes across the group.
We’re here to help
Although AML/CTF requirements for new entrants won't be enforced until 2026, it is vital for both pre-existing entities and new reporting entrants to start planning and preparing for compliance with AML/CTF requirements now. With a short lead time to compliance and limited AML/CTF experts across Australia, demand will only continue to increase as the compliance date approaches. Reach out to our team of leading specialists to help with your requirements.
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