The Chasers Channel - Empowering Small Business Owners to Achieve the Dreams They Are Chasing!

This episode of The Chasers Channel tackles one of the most persistent myths in the Australian small business community: the idea that a company ute is automatically exempt from Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT).The ATO is increasingly using AI, toll records, and data matching to catch business owners using "workhorses" as "family taxis".Learn why a dual-cab ute isn't inherently exempt and how the ATO’s mathematical formula determines if your vehicle is built for passengers or loads.The "Safe Harbour" Limits: Understand the strict rules under Practical Compliance Guideline 2018/3, including the 2 km detour limit and the 1,000 km annual cap on private travel.The Cost of Non-Compliance: Discover how failing the exemption tests can trigger the "Statutory Formula," costing you 20% of the car's base value in tax.Building a Paper Fortress: Actionable steps to protect your business, from implementing written company policies to tracking odometer readings every March 31st

In this episode of The Chasers Channel, host Chris Beks—dives into the complexities of navigating ATO rules for international business travel. Many entrepreneurs treat overseas trips as a "grey area," but this episode strips away the guesswork to show you how to turn a boarding pass into a legitimate business deduction.Understand why the ATO ignores your "vibes" and focuses strictly on the primary purpose of your trip—maintaining or expanding professional knowledge.The 100% Airfare Myth: Learn the specific conditions under which you can claim your entire flight cost versus when you must apportion expenses for private side-trips.The "Plus One" Reality Check: Discover the tax implications of bringing a partner or family member along and how to handle shared costs like hotel rooms.Building Watertight Evidence: Get the breakdown on mandatory documentation, including the "Travel Diary" requirement for trips lasting six nights or more.Avoiding the "Incidental Trap": Why a 60-minute meeting in London won't justify a three-week European holiday in the eyes of the taxman.

This episode of The Chasers Channel, hosted by financial advisor Chris Beks, explores the significant regulatory shift occurring in Australia on July 1, 2026. The podcast details how new Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) rules will transform accountants, lawyers, and real estate agents into "gatekeepers" for AUSTRAC.The new rules apply to specific activities, including setting up companies or trusts, managing business cash/securities, real estate transactions, and managing SMSFs.Professional service providers face fines of up to $33 million for non-compliance, meaning clients will face "microscope-level" scrutiny rather than the traditional "red carpet" treatment.These measures aim to prevent $200 billion in "dirty money" from destabilising Australian markets and inflating property prices.Business owners must now provide verified IDs, document the commercial purpose of transactions, and prove the source of their "seed money".

In this episode of the Chasers Channel, host Chris Beks breaks down the Small Business Superannuation Clearing House (SBSCH) and the critical upcoming changes for all small business owners. Learn what the SBSCH is, who is eligible to use this free service from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), and why you need to start planning your transition to an alternative solution now.

The Australian Taxation Office is increasing its focus on trust structures, with data analysis revealing compliance risks across deductions, family trust elections, succession planning, Division 7A, and franking credits.In this episode of The Chasers Channel, we unpack what trustees and business owners need to know right now, including:ATO trust compliance risks and red flagsOverclaiming deductions and loss trafficking explainedFamily Trust Elections (FTEs) and Interposed Entity Elections (IEEs) pitfallsSuccession planning mistakes that trigger tax issuesDivision 7A risks for trusts and beneficiariesFranking credits, the 45-day holding rule, and trust eligibilityThe ATO trust checklist and governance essentialsIf you use trusts for asset protection, tax planning, or transferring wealth to the next generation, this episode will help you avoid costly errors and ensure your structure is working as intended.Practical insights. Real-world examples. Clear guidance for Australian business owners and trustees.

Planning for 2026 doesn’t require more hours in the day—it requires better decisions.In this episode of The Chasers Channel, we explore the timeless Rocks, Pebbles & Sand analogy and how it applies to life planning, business success, and personal fulfilment in 2026.Using the image of a jar to represent your limited time and energy, this episode helps business owners and entrepreneurs:Prioritise what truly mattersEliminate distractions that create busyness without progressDesign a life and business aligned with purpose, health, and financial freedomShift from reactive work to intentional planningWhether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in the day-to-day, or ready to reset your priorities, this episode offers a simple yet powerful framework to help you plan for success—on purpose.🎙️ Listen now and start building a more meaningful and balanced 2026.

Most business owners chase growth, productivity, and performance — but ignore the one system that underpins them all: sleep.In this episode of The Chasers Channel, Chris Beks sits down with Dr Barton Jennings, lung and sleep physician, to unpack why poor sleep is silently sabotaging decision-making, energy, leadership, and long-term health for entrepreneurs.We challenge the badge-of-honour mentality around exhaustion and break down what good sleep actually looks like for busy business owners. From snoring and sleep apnoea, to waking at 3 am with a racing mind, to the truth about sleeping tablets — this is a practical, no-fluff conversation designed to help owners perform better without burning out.If you want clearer thinking, better focus, more resilience under pressure, and a business that supports your life (not consumes it), this episode will change how you view sleep forever.Listen now and discover why sleep isn’t a luxury — it’s a business strategy.

Superannuation rules are changing again — and whether you’re building a modest nest egg or managing a substantial super balance, these changes are worth understanding.From 1 July 2026, the government is introducing new super tax measures designed to make the system fairer, support low-income earners, and ensure tax thresholds keep pace with inflation.In this episode of The Chasers Channel, we break down what’s changing, who it affects, and — most importantly — what you should be thinking about now.In this episode, we cover:* What the new super tax rules actually are (without the hype)* How higher tax rates will apply to very large super balances* Why the removal of a tax on unrealised gains is a big win* Increased government support for low-income earners* How indexation reduces the long-term impact of the changes* What this means for business owners, SMSF trustees and professionals* Practical planning steps to stay ahead of the changesDespite the headlines, only a very small percentage of Australians will be directly affected — but understanding the rules now gives you clarity, confidence, and control over your long-term strategy.Key dates to remember: • New rules commence 1 July 2026 • Based on your Total Super Balance at 30 June 2027If you’re unsure how these changes may affect your super or retirement plans, this episode will help you cut through the noise and focus on what actually matters.Need personalised advice? We’re here to help you understand how the changes apply to your situation and align your super strategy with the life you’re chasing.

The best time to plan for retirement was yesterday.The second-best time? Today!Around two-thirds of Australians retire earlier than expected — often due to redundancy, health issues, caring responsibilities, burnout, or a partner’s decision to stop working.In this episode of The Chasers Channel, Chris Beks unpacks practical, no-nonsense strategies to help you regain control if retirement arrives sooner than planned.You’ll learn how to:Take stock of your financial position without panicUse superannuation effectively, even if you’re starting lateReduce debt before retirement and avoid costly mistakesCreate a realistic retirement budget that lastsUnderstand government entitlements like the Age PensionBuild flexibility into your retirement planWhether you’re in your 50s or 60s — or simply want to be better prepared — this episode reframes retirement not as an ending, but as a new beginning.🎯 Perfect for business owners, professionals, and Australians aged 40+ who want clarity, confidence, and choice in the next chapter of life.

The Lease That Could Make or Break Your BusinessMost small business owners view their retail lease as a simple rental agreement, but they couldn't be more wrong. It's one of the most critical financial and legal assets you own—and the most misunderstood.In this episode of The Chasers Channel, host Chris Beks sits down with lease expert Phil Chapman, Founder & Director of Lease1.au, to expose the hidden clauses, common 'make good' traps, and missed cost-saving opportunities lurking in your commercial contract. Learn how to stop treating your lease as a liability and start using it as an asset to increase your business valuation, negotiate smarter, and secure a smooth exit. Don't sign—or re-sign—another lease until you hear this.

Saving for a home shouldn’t take a lifetime. The 5% First Home Buyer Guarantee promises hope — but what’s the catch? In this episode, Chris unpacks the scheme in simple terms so you can chase the dream of home ownership with confidence.

This episode of The Chasers Channel emphasises that cyber security is a critical business risk, not just an IT issue, as over 60% of small businesses (SMEs) that suffer a major breach never fully recover.The most common threats (Phishing, Ransomware, Password Attacks, and Data Theft) can be prevented with five simple, low-cost steps, eliminating the need for an in-house IT team.This episode encourages a "Mindset Shift": securing systems is a necessary responsibility to protect what the business has built.

Small business owners are stretched thin—staff shortages, rising costs, and admin overload are the new normal. But what if you could hire a digital assistant who never sleeps?In this essential episode, host Chris Beks (Ceebeks Business Solutions for GOOD) cuts through the tech jargon and hype, giving you practical, easy ways to start using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation today.Discover the 3 Quick Wins that will instantly save you time, reduce stress, and boost your bottom line:Quick Win #1: Daily Operations: How to use simple AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Workspace to draft emails, summarise documents, and turn messy notes into clean instructions in seconds.Quick Win #2: Customer Service: Free up your team by setting up AI Chatbots (Tidio, ManyChat, etc.) to automatically handle your top five FAQs, take bookings, and capture leads 24/7.Quick Win #3: Content Creation: Use AI for generating social media posts, designing stunning graphics (Canva), and turning long videos into short, polished clips (Pictory/Descript).Stop thinking of AI as the "future" and start using it as your secret weapon right now. Chris shares his golden rule for beginners: to start small, get one quick win, and feel like they’ve hired two extra staff within a week.

"Are you leaving money on the table with your tax returns? In this eye-opening episode of The Chasers Channel, host Chris Beks reveals why getting a second opinion on your tax affairs isn't just about peace of mind – it can put real money back in your pocket. Discover the surprising reality of tax complexity, the power of amended returns, and why a fresh look at your financials could save you more than you think. Tune in to learn how to protect your future and keep more of what you earn!"

"Stepping out into the world? This episode of 'The Chasers Channel' is for YOU! We're diving into the financial foundations every young adult needs to build for lasting peace of mind. Discover why superannuation, insurance, and estate planning aren't just for 'later in life' – they're crucial steps to protecting your independence and chasing your dreams with confidence. Don't miss out on the insights that will empower your financial future!"

Is the government's expanded 5% deposit scheme a golden ticket to your first home, or a ticking debt trap? Join Chris Beks as he uncovers the risks and reveals smart strategies to use the "First Home Boost" safely and build a future you can truly afford.

The ATO issues a DPN when a company fails to meet its obligations around PAYG withholding, superannuation guarantee charge, or GST. And here’s the real problem – if the company doesn’t pay up, the ATO can make the directors personally liable. That means your personal assets – your home, your savings – could be at risk!Knowing how to respond quickly could save you from personal financial pain.

It is no surprise that with the rapid advancement of AI technology, government departments, like the Australian Tax Office, will deploy it to create efficiency and accuracy.The ATO's use of multimodal AI models in the future is a major step forward .This episode explores how they intend to use it.

If you’re a business owner, especially here in Australia, you can’t afford to ignore AI any longer.So… let’s change that and dive into this episode 

Have you ever said, “It’s quicker if I just do it myself”? Or maybe, “No one else will do it the way I do”?If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. We all start out doing everything - because, well, in the early days, we have to.But that mindset? It becomes a handbrake on growth.Learn the art of creating a productive team in this episode.

Most Victorians understand that land tax usually applies to properties like holiday houses, investment properties, or commercial spaces. And, thankfully, our primary place of residence – our home – has generally been exempt. However, from 2024, the general land tax threshold in Victoria plummeted from $300,000 down to just $50,000 and will now catch out many home-based businesses.

As you’re reading this, you’re probably juggling a million things at once: work, meetings, emails, deadlines, maybe a side project or two, and your life balance really feels out of whack!We know the secret to true wellbeing is balance, but what does that actually mean?That’s where the four ‘sets’ come into play: mindset, healthset, heartset, and soulset. These can be considered the four pillars to happiness, and we will be discussing what they are and what you can do to find your balance, in this epsiode.

The current impact of geopolitical statements is causing havoc on the stock market and flows onto our superannuation fund balances. If you are looking to retire soon, this volatility can cause financial stress and anxiety.In this episode, we will be reviewing 5 steps to help you maintain your retirement fitness.

As a new financial year begins in Australia, what can businesses expect for the year ahead as they start to plan and set their goals?

This episode is less about business and is more about how you can still manage to keep in top shape despite every day being a busy day in business.We discuss 7 simple points to keep you taunt & terrific!

A tax planning meeting isn't just about deductions. It's a fantastic opportunity for a broader financial health check of your business:reviewing your business structure;discussing future plans; andidentifying potential issuesEvery small business should have these meetings before the 30th of June each year!

The regret of "neglecting friendships and social network health" is a significant one in retirement.This regret underscores the vital role of social connection in our overall happiness and well-being. We are, by nature, social beings, and our relationships provide us with a sense of belonging, purpose, support, and joy.  This episode explres this regret in depth and the investment required to overcome it.Link to the full 9News article in our show notes for you to dive deeper."https://www.9news.com.au/national/australiansuper-research-finds-australians-do-not-need-1-million-to-retire-comfortably/bc28ae43-818a-4913-8324-25e08b0fc32f

We are continuing on with the 5 common regrets of current retirees, and we are focusing on regret no. 4 - neglecting your physical health.Our health is fundamental to enjoying a fulfilling retirement. We discuss the critical importance of physical health and the regret of not prioritising it earlier in life with health & fitness coach, Joshua Suringa from Body Blitzer gym.

Retirement can be an exciting, and sometimes challenging journey and one very crucial aspect about it is finding your purpose and direction in your post-work life.A very real psychological condition resulting from not having a purpose or direction in retirement is known as ‘anticipatory regret’ - the emotional cost of not pursuing your dreams. It's that nagging feeling of "what if I had?" that can really weigh you down, especially when you have the time in retirement to reflect on the life you've lived and the things you haven't done.We will explore ways to overcome this and find your passions.

In this episode, we will explore in detail the 2nd common regret, one that resonates deeply with many: the regret of working too long and missing out on life. It's a poignant reminder that time is our most precious commodity, and how we choose to spend it shapes the quality of our lives.

The first common regret of current retirees is not saving earlier enough. The core issue here isn't just about the amount of savings, although that's certainly a factor. It's about the lost opportunity.While saving earlier is undoubtedly advantageous, taking action at any age can make a significant difference.

A recent survey of current retirees has revealed some frightening information about their regrets.In this episode, we discuss these revelations to highlight them in the Top 5 Regrets of Current Retirees." It's a sobering, but ultimately empowering, look at what can go wrong, so with some early intervention, planning and action being taken, you can get it right.

The natural world is a vast library of knowledge, waiting to be explored. From the intricate dance of bees to the ancient wisdom of trees, there are countless lessons to be learned.Bees are tiny creatures, often overlooked, but have mastered the art of productivity, collaboration and resilience - some of the key characteristics of successful business owners. In this episode, I am going to share some of the fascinating aspects about the world of bees and uncover some valuable business lessons that can help entrepreneurs and business owners really thrive.

The pandemic's lingering effects, rising costs, and changing consumer habits have created a perfect storm for hospitality businesses. Many are struggling to keep their doors open. Last week, the Coalition announced a proposed tax incentive – a generous $20,000 deduction for small businesses on meal and entertainment expenses. Could this be the shot in the arm this industry desperately needs?

Can you remember way back when you were a kid and believed in the magic of Santa Claus? How about when your friends at school started to destroy that image by claiming that he wasn’t real and that it was just your parents? I know I was devastated when I found out the truth. It was like a huge part of my inner child was ripped away from me, never to return again. In today’s episode, we will be looking at an incredibly powerful way that one clever Mum posted on Facebook many years ago now, that really resonated with me.

Soaring property prices recently have made our homes a significant asset.  However, this wealth often remains tied up, unable to be readily accessed. As we approach retirement, many of us are seeking ways to unlock this equity and enjoy a comfortable golden age. While selling your home could be an option, it’s not always the most practical solution. The process can be time-consuming, and you’ll still need a place to live. Also, selling in a rising market often means buying in the same market, potentially offsetting any gains. Fortunately, there are several strategies to access your home’s equity. In today’s episode, we will be looking at some of the ways to access the equity in your home, although be mindful of the consequences for your particular circumstances.

For startups, cash is king. And managing it efficiently is the top priority for any successful, growing business. One finance tool that can greatly assist with cash flow preservation and management is asset finance. In today’s episode, we will be looking at how the use of Asset finance can be a powerful tool for startups looking to purchase equipment and technology without using up their cash reserves. 

The Australian property market is becoming increasingly more suited for investors to make moves into, especially in metropolitan regions. However, one thing that has also occurred at the same time is the dropping off of first-home buyer numbers. This comes down to a number of factors, including rising prices, housing supply and finance issues.  Now, an increasingly popular move being seen across the nation is the shunning of traditional thinking about property. Instead, people are beginning to buy investment real estate ahead of their own home, helping them build a property and asset portfolio while also earning rent from their investments.  This episode unravels why choosing an investment property as your first purchase might just be the game-changing decision you need to make."

A business's cash flow can make or break it. It is often considered to be the lifeblood of any business. In today’s episode, we will be exploring practical strategies to improve your business's cash flow and ensure its long-term success.

Late payments are a significant problem for businesses of all sizes, but especially for Small to Medium businesses. When customers delay payments, it creates a ripple effect that can have serious financial and operational consequences. Cash flow disruption, increased borrowing costs, damage to supplier relationships, and a tarnished reputation are just some of the hidden costs associated with late payments. In this episode, we will be looking into the financial consequences of missed or delayed payments. From late fees and interest charges to damage to your credit score, we'll explore the full impact of paying late."

The chances are you’ve got some personal debt hanging over your head...don’t worry not alone. Getting rid of personal debt should be at the top of your financial to-do list. Because living debt-free is not just about having more money,  it’s about having peace of mind and freedom! Today's episode looks into why it’s so crucial to tackle your debt and how you can do it with a powerful strategy known as the ‘Debt Snowball Method’.

Are you a small business owner feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of financing?  The episode highlights the importance of understanding alternative lending options, the potential benefits of loans for business growth, and the factors lenders consider beyond credit. Hopefully, you will be able to calculate your needs accurately, explore streamlined application processes, and consider the potential return on investment versus interest costs.

Refinancing your home loan can be a great way to save money, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Understanding what your goals are and how refinancing can help is important, so you don’t fall into the trap of refinancing for no reason.  In today’s episode, we will be looking closely at the 6 common traps to look out for.

Do you have a very successful business with plenty of customers and work, you complete all your jobs on time and submit the invoices for payment expecting that your credit terms will be met only to find that your customers are really using you as a bank? You may even start to experience severe cash flow issues as a consequence. Depending on the total value of your debtor's ledger, using Debtor (or Invoice) Finance could be the solution. In this episode, we will be covering the use of a lending facility called Debtors Finance which can help you unlock up to 85% of the value of your total debtors.

In today's world, we need to have a much broader approach to leadership that extends beyond the traditional focus on financial performance and maximising profits. Leadership standards that uphold the importance of ethical, sustainable, and socially responsible practices in business are equally, if not more, important for a business to succeed in the long term. In this episode, Leadership Consultant, Daimien Patterson join us to discuss his groundbreaking work in leadership development.

Human life expectancy is on the rise. Whereas the average person born in 1960 could expect to live to 52.5 years of age, someone born today has an average life expectancy between 79 and 83 years of age.  One of retirees' biggest regrets is not setting enough money aside for their retirement. A recent survey showed that 59% of retirees say they regret not saving more, and 60% say they should have started saving earlier. In this episode, we will be discussing one simple way to ensure you have a significant retirement balance to help sustain you through your golden years.

Springtime is generally the selling season for real estate in Australia, and that season is now upon us again. Investing in real estate is a long-term commitment, so it's essential to do your research and make informed decisions. In this episode, we explored six crucial factors to consider when choosing an investment property. 

Planning for retirement is not just about stashing away money; it’s about envisioning a life filled with passion, connections, and preparedness. Retirement can be one of the most liberating phases of your life, but without proper planning and the right mindset, it can also be filled with regrets. In today’s episode, we discuss the "Top 5 Retirement Regrets to Avoid, so you can make sure your golden years truly shine!

We all know the importance of a good personal credit score when it comes to buying a house or getting a loan. But did you know that your business also has a credit score? And just like your personal credit score, it plays a significant role in your financial health. If you suddenly need to access a line of credit or cash flow loan the lender's decision will be greatly influenced by your business credit core. This episode focuses on 6 key ways to build an irresistible business credit score.

Many business owners leave their exiting from their business until they are either forced to sell or decide they’ve had enough and just want out and virtually give their business away for nothing! Having an exit strategy well before making that actual decision will ensure that you are fully ready - especially emotionally, your business is optimised for maximum sale value and you have a ready plan for what comes next. In this episode, I am joined by Kerry Boulton from the Exit Strategy Group to discuss this critical piece of the life of an entrepreneur that is often neglected until the last moment.