As the financial year comes to a close, business owners across Darwin and the Northern Territory should be shifting focus from compliance to strategy. The end of financial year (EOFY) isn’t just about wrapping up accounts — it’s a valuable opportunity to sit down with your accountant and position your business for a stronger year ahead.
At Lowrys, we’re proud to be Darwin’s local accounting experts, helping Territory businesses navigate the nuances of tax planning, cash flow, and long-term growth. Here’s what we recommend discussing with your accountant as we move from EOFY to the new financial year (FY).
1. Review the Past Year’s Financials
Start by reflecting on your performance over the past 12 months.
Ask your accountant:
- Did we meet our financial goals?
- Were there any surprises in our tax liabilities?
- What did our profit and loss statement reveal about spending trends?
Understanding your financial story helps identify areas for improvement and opportunities for better financial control going forward.
2. Maximise Deductions Before June 30
Darwin businesses — especially tradies, sole traders, and small operators — often miss out on valuable deductions. Before June 30, consider:
- Prepaying expenses (e.g. rent, insurance)
- Writing off obsolete inventory
- Claiming depreciation on eligible assets
- Making super contributions for staff and owners
Tip: The NT’s unique economic activity and seasonal cash flows may impact when it makes most sense to time certain expenses. A local accountant like Lowrys understands this context better than most.
3. Get Clear on Tax Obligations for the Year Ahead
Now’s the time to plan for future obligations like:
- PAYG instalments
- Superannuation guarantee increases
- Fringe benefits tax (FBT) impacts
- Upcoming ATO changes (e.g. payday super)
Staying ahead helps smooth out cash flow and avoid nasty surprises.
4. Update Your Business Structure or Strategy
Has your business grown? Are you expanding into remote NT locations? Opening a new service in Palmerston or Katherine?
It may be time to:
- Consider switching from sole trader to a company or trust
- Reassess your ABN and GST obligations
- Revisit how profits are distributed
- Review how your business aligns with your personal wealth goals
5. Set Clear Financial Goals for the New FY
EOFY is the perfect chance to set strategic goals for the year ahead — not just for survival, but for growth.
You might want to discuss:
- Budgeting and forecasting for the wet and dry seasons
- Setting revenue and profit benchmarks
- Reviewing your pricing model
- Planning for upcoming capital investments
Having a roadmap with checkpoints and tax implications in mind helps keep your business on track — and accountable.
6. Leverage Government Incentives & NT Grants
Northern Territory businesses have access to several unique grants and government incentives that many other states don’t offer. Make sure you ask:
- Are there any NT-specific grants or rebates we can apply for?
- Can we take advantage of federal programs like the Instant Asset Write-Off?
A knowledgeable Darwin accountant can help you navigate both the federal and NT-specific programs available.
7. Talk About Your Personal Wealth Plan
Tax planning shouldn’t just serve your business — it should serve your life goals too.
Talk to your accountant about:
- Retirement and superannuation strategies
- Transitioning to SMSF (if appropriate)
- Asset protection and estate planning
- How your business profits fit into your long-term wealth creation plan
Book Your EOFY Planning Session with Lowrys Today
Whether you’re running a small business in Darwin CBD, expanding across the Top End, or just want clarity heading into the new financial year — the team at Lowrys is here to help.
We live and work in the NT, and we understand the local business environment. Let’s sit down and map out your next steps together.
📞 Get in touch with Lowrys today to book your EOFY planning session.