The Billion Dollar TikTok Scandal

HomeInsights

The Billion Dollar TikTok Scandal. 


$1.7 billion paid out in fraudulent refunds, another $2.7bn in fraudulent claims stopped, around 56,000 alleged perpetrators and over 100 arrests to date. How did the TikTok tax scandal get out of control?  


It was promoted as a victimless hack that delivered tens of thousands of dollars into your bank account. Like any hack, taking part was as simple as following the instructions. The streamlined process designed to make it easy for a small business to start-up under Australia’s self-assessment system, also made it easy for the ‘TikTok fraud’ to go viral.



“Everyone else got refunds, it's OK, it's just a temporary loan [from the ATO].”
TikTok social influencer




Get in touch to start a conversation.

We provide strategic business and tax advisory, underpinned by our expertise in financial planning to ensure we develop financial structures that are smart and well considered.


CONTACT US  CONTACT US 


12 Feb '24

Perth and Brisbane set to lead growth in 2024

The smaller capital cities of Perth and Brisbane are expected to be the top performers over the next 12 months.


READ MORE READ MORE
7 Feb '24

ABS Report reveals men still out-earn women

Men continue to earn more per hour than women in all eight major occupation groups, according to ABS figures. 


READ MORE READ MORE
2 Feb '24

Can my SMSF invest in property development?

An SMSF can invest in property development if trustees ensure the investment complies with the rules.


READ MORE READ MORE
2 Feb '24

Can my SMSF invest in property development?

An SMSF can invest in property development if trustees ensure the investment complies with the rules.


READ MORE READ MORE
31 Jan '24

Tax on Super Earnings

How will the proposed 30% tax on super earnings above $3m work?


READ MORE READ MORE
31 Jan '24

Debt consolidation using your home loan

Consolidating various debts into your home loan can be a strategic financial move that reduces your interest and allows you to pay the debt down faster.


READ MORE READ MORE
31 Jan '24

The problem when the evidence doesn’t match what the taxpayer tells the ATO

The problem when the evidence doesn’t match what the taxpayer tells the ATO.


READ MORE READ MORE
31 Jan '24

Can my SMSF invest in property development?

An SMSF can invest in property development if trustees ensure the investment complies with the rules.


READ MORE READ MORE
31 Jan '24

Contractor or Employee?

An agreement states that a worker is an independent contractor, this does not mean that they are a contractor for tax and superannuation purposes.


READ MORE READ MORE
30 Jan '24

5 things to consider before getting caravan finance

One of the best parts of the summer holidays is packing up the car and heading off on a family holiday. Many Australians are staying at caravan parks in iconic locations


READ MORE READ MORE
29 Jan '24

The Redesigned Stage 3 Personal Income Tax Cuts

The personal income tax cuts legislated to commence on 1 July 2024 will be realigned and redistributed under a proposal released by the Federal Government.


READ MORE READ MORE
29 Jan '24

6 ways to pay off your home faster in 2024

Home is the biggest expense and the sooner you can pay down the debt, the better off you’re going to be financially.


READ MORE READ MORE
24 Jan '24

6 Predictions For Australia's Property Market In 2024

With affordability challenges in major cities, buyers may explore "bridesmaid suburbs" – second-choice areas that offer more reasonable property prices.


READ MORE READ MORE
22 Jan '24

Why you should buy in January

Buying a property, whether as an investment or residence, is never a straightforward process. Take time to research properties, and then make a competitive offer to get the deal done.


READ MORE READ MORE
19 Jan '24

Growing Your Business With Asset Finance In 2024

Without the need for upfront payments, asset finance can play an important role in improving a business's cash flow management.


READ MORE READ MORE
17 Jan '24

Student accommodation to remain undersupplied in 2024

The report found that student accommodation is also likely to see steady rental growth in 2024.


READ MORE READ MORE
16 Jan '24

Top commercial property predictions for 2023

After a tough year for commercial property investors, the outlook will be better in 2024, according to an expert.


READ MORE READ MORE
21 Dec '23

Home prices reach a new record high

Australian property prices have officially recovered from the declines of last year, home prices have risen by 8.1%, taking values to a new record high at the end of November.


READ MORE READ MORE
21 Dec '23

The case of the taxpayer who claimed a loss on their home

A decision by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal has the tax world in a flurry after found taxpayer who sold the apartment she lived in for a loss, then claimed the $265,935 loss in her tax return as a deduction.


READ MORE READ MORE
20 Dec '23

Tax on super balances above $3m hits Parliament

Legislation enabling an extra 15% tax on earnings on super balances above $3m is before Parliament.


READ MORE READ MORE
19 Dec '23

Commercial investors looking at alternative assets

Commercial investors continue to seek out alternative assets even as higher interest rates see demand for the sector slow down.


READ MORE READ MORE
19 Dec '23

Shannon Smit appointed to ATO Small Business Stewardship Group

We are thrilled to share that Shannon Smit, our Founding Director and CEO, has been appointed to the ATO's Small Business Stewardship Group for 2024/25.


READ MORE READ MORE
18 Dec '23

The key influences of 2024

Uncertainty has reigned over the last few years, but can we expect more consistency as we head into 2024.


READ MORE READ MORE
15 Dec '23

Queensland doubles first home owner grant

Queensland first-home buyers have another reason to celebrate this Christmas with the state government recently doubling the first home owner grant to $30,000.


READ MORE READ MORE
14 Dec '23

Tourism and industrial sectors lead the way in 2023

2023 has been a tricky year for commercial property investors. However, the tourism and industrial sectors have continued to be the strongest performers.


READ MORE READ MORE
13 Dec '23

Bah humbug: The Christmas tax dilemma

If your work Christmas party is out of the office, keep the cost of your celebrations below $300 per person if you want to avoid paying FBT.


READ MORE READ MORE
13 Dec '23

Pros And Cons Of Buying A Home Over Christmas

Sellers who list their properties during the holiday season are typically motivated for a quick sale.


READ MORE READ MORE
13 Dec '23

3 reasons why Christmas is the perfect time to buy a new car

As the calendar approaches the year's end, car manufacturers are keen to make space for the latest models set to hit the market in the new year.


READ MORE READ MORE
11 Dec '23

4 ways businesses trouble with cash flow during Christmas

Cash flow issues can be particularly challenging during the holiday period, so business owners need to be on guard and plan ahead.


READ MORE READ MORE
8 Dec '23

Don’t dig yourself into Christmas debt

While giving gifts and spending time with family is important, if you’re looking to buy a home, it’s important that you keep your finances on track.


READ MORE READ MORE
7 Dec '23

SMART Life - Issue 15 - Summer 2024

Recent research shows why giving to others can provide us with a mental boost. We feel happier when we have a choice in how and who we give, and when we see the results of our generosity.


READ MORE READ MORE
7 Dec '23

How to spend less this Christmas

Spending big over Christmas can risk undoing good budget habits. Thinking differently opens up lots of opportunities to spend less while still experiencing the joys of the season.


READ MORE READ MORE
7 Dec '23

The outlook for growth opportunities in small cap shares

Rising interest rates hit smaller companies. Now it looks like the rate rise cycle could be coming to an end.


READ MORE READ MORE
6 Dec '23

Why Charitable Giving Makes Us Happy

We step through recent research that shows why giving to others can provide us with a mental boost.


READ MORE READ MORE
6 Dec '23

Navigating the Festive Season: A Mortgage Broker's Insight on Credit Management

As the holiday season approaches, it's crucial to consider how your spending habits may influence especially when it comes to utilising easy credit options.


READ MORE READ MORE
5 Dec '23

Streamlining Finances in the Digital Age: Top Budgeting Apps

A budgeting app is an app designed to help you optimise the spending and savings choices you make each month.


READ MORE READ MORE
29 Nov '23

Unraveling Payroll Tax: Common Blunders and Grouping Dilemmas for Small Business Owners

We'll dive into some of the everyday mistakes and tricky grouping issues that small businesses often encounter when dealing with payroll tax.


READ MORE READ MORE
25 Nov '23

Effective strategies for managing cash flow in trades businesses

Maintaining control over cash flow is undeniably a complex balancing act. It's a challenge that lacks a quick and universal solution.


READ MORE READ MORE
24 Nov '23

10 reasons why it’s time to change accountant

This article aims to shed light on red-flag indicators that may suggest it's time to consider changing accountants, providing insights into the reasons behind such a decision.


READ MORE READ MORE
24 Nov '23

7 Key Inquiries for Your Accountant

Prepare Your Business for a Successful New Year - Challenging conditions, unpredictable supply chains, and increasing inflation highlight the importance of expert financial support.


READ MORE READ MORE
24 Nov '23

Benefits of a Specialised Construction Accountant for Your Business

A dedicated construction and trade accountant possesses an in-depth understanding of the sector's unique requirements and intricacies.


READ MORE READ MORE
24 Nov '23

Navigating Equity Interests in a Family Business

The journey often begins with businesses adopting simple ownership structures, yet as they progress and expand, intricate challenges emerge.


READ MORE READ MORE
24 Nov '23

Tradie Accountants

While any accountant can handle trade-related finances, opting for a specialist in the trades industry offers unique advantages.


READ MORE READ MORE
24 Nov '23

Strategies to manage cash flow for construction companies

Regularly monitoring your income and expenses is crucial. These practices will help keep your financial standing robust.


READ MORE READ MORE
21 Nov '23

How to Register a Business for Paid Parental Leave in the ATO Portal


READ MORE READ MORE
21 Nov '23

How To Set Up and Process Paid Parental Leave in Xero


READ MORE READ MORE
20 Nov '23

Should you acquire or lease earthmoving equipment?

Several options when it comes to acquiring earthmoving equipment. One of the most common choices is to own the equipment outright.


READ MORE READ MORE
17 Nov '23

Underrated Investments: Education Bonds Explained

According to the Australian Institute of Family Studies, more than half of Australian mothers expect their children to graduate from university.


READ MORE READ MORE
17 Nov '23

Gold Coast office market faces a shortage in 3 years

Despite an increase in the region’s office vacancy rate the Gold Coast office market is facing a shortage of office space within the next three years.


READ MORE READ MORE
16 Nov '23

Investment Bonds vs Education Bonds – What’s the difference?

Education is the gateway to unlocking opportunities and creating a brighter future. While various methods to establish an education fund, Investment Bonds are frequently contemplated.


READ MORE READ MORE
16 Nov '23

Industrial assets are still an investor favourite

Industrial assets are expected to retain their position as a favoured option among the commercial property market due to their strong relative returns.


READ MORE READ MORE


Related News

20 Apr

The Power of Tax Planning for Small Business

Tax planning is more than just a financial necessity—it's a strategic advantage for businesses of all sizes. By proactively managing your tax strategy, you can significantly reduce your liabilities, enhance cash flow, and ensure full compliance with ever-evolving tax regulations.


READ MORE READ MORE
20 Apr

Your 2026 EOFY Game Plan

Smart and strategic tax planning for business.


READ MORE READ MORE
1 Apr

Tax Return - Items To Consider

To maximise your deductions and ensure that your tax return is complete, please review the following items and advise your Accountant if any apply to you.


READ MORE READ MORE