Cpa Australia Podcast

Did you know that one of Australia's biggest superannuation reforms in decades is starting in July 2026? Are you prepared for the change? In short, with legislation moving through Parliament, Australia will move from quarterly to payday-based superannuation payments – a significant shift with implications across business. This expert-led episode, featuring three guests, explores the systems issues and regulatory implications as well as why Payday Super is happening and the benefits of this change to employees. Key takeaways include: How cash flow, payroll systems and compliance will be affected by this change The closure of the Small Business Super Clearinghouse (SBSCH) How the seven-day payment rule will work for missing payments Practical steps accountants can take to help prepare clients early Listen now for expert advice to help you prepare for the changes coming soon to superannuation in Australia. Host: Tahn Sharpe, Editor, INTHEBLACK Guests: Kristen Yarbrough, Pr

Australia remains one of the few advanced economies still using PDFs for financial reporting – a format most global markets have already left behind. In this episode, you'll gain expert-led insights on why adopting digital financial reporting in Australia is critical to supporting trust, transparency and competitiveness in global markets. Explore how structured data allows regulators, investors and businesses to analyse and compare information more efficiently, driving better decision-making and reducing capital costs. Listeners will learn: How structured data improves accountability and investor confidence Why global markets already mandate digital reporting standards The link between digital disclosure and lower capital costs How AI will enhance – not replace – digital reporting workflows What Australian policymakers can learn from global peers Learn why CPA Australia is recommending a mandate for digital reporting by listed entities in this expert-led discussion. L

In this special episode of With Interest, CPA Australia CEO Chris Freeland sits down with Australia's Auditor General, Dr Caralee McLiesh, for an exclusive fireside chat on public sector challenges.  The conversation builds on Dr McLiesh's keynote address on performance management in the Commonwealth public sector, drawing on insights from the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) annual report, released in September 2025.  The discussion took place following a roundtable lunch in Canberra on 5 August 2025, where CPA Australia convened senior public sector leaders to hear Dr McLiesh's keynote before she joined Chris Freeland to expand on the key themes.  Listen now.  Speakers: Dr Caralee McLiesh, Auditor-General of Australia and Chris Freeland, CEO, CPA Australia. You can listen to the keynote speech from the roundtable in full by Australia's Auditor-General, Dr Caralee McLiesh. For more information about the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) head to its website.  And you can learn mo

In this special With Interest episode, you can listen in full to a keynote speech by Australia's Auditor-General, Dr Caralee McLiesh. The speech focuses on performance management in the Commonwealth public sector, drawing on some of the many findings in the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) annual report, released in September 2025. The Auditor-General addresses the state of performance management 10 years after the introduction of the Public Governance Performance and Accountability (PGPA) Act of 2013. In her speech, she highlights three key areas where the framework's full potential has yet to be realised. CPA Australia CEO Chris Freeland brought together senior leaders from across the public sector for a roundtable lunch in the nation's capital on August 5, 2025, where the Auditor-General gave this insightful keynote. Listen now. Speaker: Dr Caralee McLiesh, Auditor-General of Australia For more information about the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) head to its website. And you

How does the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) ensure tax fairness when dealing with large corporations. In this episode, the Deputy Commissioner, Public Groups, at the ATO explains how the tax office works to promote transparency, accountability and compliance in the large market sector. This discussion sheds light on how the ATO’s strategic approach supports both corporate confidence and public trust. Some of the key areas covered include:  Current state of the large business market  The Tax Avoidance Taskforce  Key trends in compliance  Overall relationship between large businesses and the tax system  Dispute resolution  The introduction of public country-by-country reporting  The future of the relationship between big business and the ATO  Listen now for expert-led insights from the ATO’s expert in this field.   Host: Jenny Wong, Tax Lead, CPA Australia  Guest: Rebecca Saint, Deputy Commissioner, Public Groups, ATO. Rebecca plays a leading role in the

In part two of this With Interest conversation, experts David Bradbury, Paul Tilley, Dale Pinto and Jenny Wong discuss the global tax reform debate, unpacking the challenges and opportunities facing Australia. Key takeaways include: Why OECD Pillar Two still has a fighting chance The impact of dividend imputation on tax reform Why stamp duty is a critical state-level issue How tariffs vs VAT reflect shifting US tax policy International best practices to boost investor confidence. From corporate tax rate dilemmas to economic nationalism, this episode explores how geopolitical tensions and tax complexity are reshaping the future of taxation. The discussion was held at CPA Australia’s inaugural Tax Forum in August 2025. Listen now. Hosts: Jenny Wong, Tax Lead, Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia and Dale Pinto, Global President and Chair of CPA Australia Guests: David Bradbury, partner at KPMG Australia, former Federal Minister and Assistant Treasurer, former Deputy Director of the OECD's Centre for Tax P

Australia’s tax system is under pressure. In part one of this With Interest conversation, Jenny Wong is joined by two of the country’s leading voices in tax policy — David Bradbury and Paul Tilley. Together, they explore the structural flaws in Australia’s tax system, the economic and political barriers to reform and the urgent need for a tax mix shift. Key takeaways include: Why Australia’s tax system may not be fit for “dangerous times" The single biggest structural flaw in Australia’s tax system today The risks of over-reliance on personal income tax How capital income tax impacts productivity and investment Why Australia has gone 25 years without meaningful change From capital taxation challenges to the erosion of GST revenue, this conversation offers deep insights into the future of tax reform in Australia. The discussion was held at CPA Australia’s inaugural Tax Forum in August 2025. Listen now. Host: Jenny Wong, Tax Lead, Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia Guests: David Bradbury, pa

How can we attract more accountants and future-proof the profession?   In this episode we take a deep dive with IFAC into this pressing question. You’ll learn about accounting’s talent pipeline – its challenges and possible solutions.    Key takeaways include:   What’s really driving the talent shortage and how firms, educators and policymakers can respond.  Simple ways to position accounting as a dynamic, valued career choice.  Why reaching future accountants in primary school – and harnessing gamification – sparks lifelong curiosity.  How AI is reshaping (not replacing) accounting jobs, and what skillsets are essential for today’s graduates.  Real-world strategies to build an engaged and future-proofed accounting team.  If you’re in business or accounting leadership, don’t miss these actionable insights to help understand and elevate the profession’s future.  Host: Elinor Kasapidis, Chief of Policy, Standards and External affairs, CPA Australia  Guest: Bruce Vivian,

Want strategic insights to help navigate the tricky landscape of international trade?   Designed for Australian accountants and business leaders seeking an edge in global trade, this podcast will give you expert-led insights into:  How to assess financial health before entering new markets  Cash flow strategies that support sustainable export growth  Practical tools for managing risks in international trade  Ways government loans and grants can accelerate expansion  Why early lender engagement is key to successful financing  Our guest is an export expert! Sonia Kammel is the CFO of Export Finance Australia (EFA), the Australian Government's export credit agency, which supports export trade and overseas infrastructure development.   Packed with practical advice and real-world examples, this episode equips you with the knowledge to help guide businesses and clients to global success.  Tune in now.   Host: Gavan Ord, Business Investment and International Lead, CPA Austr

Unpack and understand Australia's economic reform roundtable, which met in Canberra recently to explore ways of making the economy more productive and resilient.   This includes what the issues discussed mean for the economy’s future and what accountants and finance leaders need to know about the major tax and productivity challenges ahead.   Tune in now for a breakdown of this three-day summit, including:  Tax reform and productivity  Long-term growth challenges  Modernising the workforce  Tariffs  AI strategies  Attracting capital  While there is cautious optimism, this episode explores the broad thrust of the roundtable to understand the key challenges ahead.   The federal government roundtable, held in August 2025 brought together leaders from the business community, the union movement and society.   These discussions were informed by nearly 900 submissions from experts, industry leaders and individuals (including CPA Australia) and over 40 forums that Minis

As AI becomes embedded across public sector operations, how do you balance innovation with accountability? In this episode, hear expert views on the governance of AI in the public sector.   Key themes include:  Why defining AI clearly matters for risk management  The need to keep humans in the loop for high-impact decisions  Risks of using public generative AI tools with confidential data  The importance of closed-loop and contextual AI systems in government  How to balance centralised frameworks with agency-specific needs  Building a risk-aware culture vs. enforcing tick-box compliance  The challenge of maintaining transparency in machine learning  Why AI governance should be principles-based, not rules-based  The growing concerns around agentic AI and loss of human control  Whether you're a policy maker, accountant or public service leader, this discussion offers practical insights into designing agile, ethical and effective AI governance in the pu

Learn all about the sweeping changes to superannuation which are set to reshape super from July 2025 onward.   Whether you're a financial adviser, accountant or business owner, this is a must-listen episode if you want to stay informed and prepared.   You'll gain clear insights into:  The new Division 296 tax, which targets individuals with super balances over $3 million  The superannuation guarantee increasing to 12%  Payday super rules requiring contributions in line with payroll  New parental leave super funded by the government  Changes to the general transfer balance cap and contribution rules  This episode covers the hot topics of debate in superannuation that accounting and finance professionals need to know to guide clients, adjust payroll systems or plan your own financial strategy.  Listen now.   Host: Host: Tahn Sharpe, editor INTHEBLACK, CPA Australia  Guest: Richard Webb, superannuation lead, CPA Australia  Links:  You can learn more about CPA Austr

This week’s show is a special presentation from CPA Australia’s leadership, strategy and business podcast, INTHEBLACK. Ever wondered how well you communicate?  Communication expert Dr Louise Mahler shares practical, research-backed techniques to help you build trust, speak with confidence and strengthen your presence.  Whether you're presenting to the board, in an online meeting or fielding tough questions, this episode gives you the tools to communicate with greater impact and earn trust more effectively.   From unconscious habits that sabotage credibility to the secrets behind handling high-pressure moments, unpack how voice, body language and messaging shape the way we’re perceived.  In this INTHEBLACK episode, you’ll learn:   The core components of trust and why they matter   How to communicate with authority using vocal and physical presence   Simple ways to manage anxiety in meetings and presentations   What gravitas really is and how to develop it  Listen now for exp

As tax time approaches, so does a spike in scam activity – posing a real threat to both individuals and small businesses.   In this episode, we’ll explore the latest scam trends and what accountants, tax agents and business owners need to know to protect themselves and their clients.  By listening, you’ll gain:  Awareness of current scam tactics targeting taxpayers in 2025  Insights into ATO impersonation scams, including red flags and pressure tactics used by scammers  Comparisons to previous years, with key differences in scam behaviour for 2025  Guidance for tax agents on how to support and educate clients  Best practices for verifying ATO communication  An introduction to myID and its role in strengthening identity protection  Clear steps to take if a scam is suspected, along with a key message to remember this tax season.  This episode is a must-listen for finance professionals and small business advisers looking to stay one step ahead of scam threats duri

  Succession planning is a critical topic. Understanding how to navigate succession planning is crucial for accountants, financial professionals and those involved in wealth management.    In this second episode in the Tax Time 2025 series, you’ll learn about the key points of wealth transfer and what you need to know about succession planning, including:   Current trends   Regulatory aspects   Tax considerations for private groups  Capital gains tax (GGT) in relation to succession planning  Tune in to gain valuable insights into effective strategies for ensuring a smooth transition of wealth while meeting compliance requirements.  Listen now.   Host: Jenny Wong, Tax Lead, Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia  Guest: Jenny Lin, Assistant Commissioner, Private Wealth, Australian Taxation Office  For information related to this episode, head to the ATO website for information on succession planning   Additionally, you can listen to other episodes in this Tax Time 2025 seri

Stay informed and prepared with the latest updates relevant to small business this tax season.  In this episode, gain critical insights to help small business clients successfully navigate Tax Time 2025.  Key topics covered include:  Current ATO focus areas  Specific tax considerations for small business owners  Practical strategies to support compliance and informed decision-making  Designed for CPA Australia members and the broader business community, this episode offers actionable guidance to help you stay ahead of regulatory changes and support your clients with confidence.  Host: Jenny Wong, Tax Lead, Policy and Advocacy, CPA Australia  Guest:  Angela Allen, Assistant Commissioner, Small Business Experience, Australian Taxation Office, (ATO)  For guidance and information related to this episode, head to the ATO website, where you'll find these helpful pages:  Small business focus areas  Quarterly to monthly GST reporting   Tax Time toolkit for small business

This four-part tax time 2025 series provides you with comprehensive coverage of topics tailored to assist Australian accountants, finance professionals and their clients.   In this first episode, learn about the latest updates from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), as well as key information on:  Deductions  Record keeping  Investments  Digital tools  ATO focus areas  This episode will help ensure you and your clients are well prepared for tax season in 2025.    Listen now.   Host: Jenny Wong, tax lead, policy and advocacy, CPA Australia  Guest: Rob Thomson, assistant commissioner at the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) For links related to this episode, head to the ATO website for information on:  The ATO app  Occupation guides  Work-related expenses   Work-related self-education expenses   Super health check    From June 24, 2025, the full four-episode tax time 2025 series will be available to listen on CPA Australia’s site. 

What does good governance in the not-for-profit (NFP) sector look like?   In this episode of With Interest, we’ll explore the frameworks, challenges and opportunities shaping NFP leadership today.  Gain practical insights into:  What good governance really means for NFPs  The top governance challenges NFPs face in the Australian context  The link between sound fiscal management and accountability  Real-world examples of governance that made a measurable difference  Actionable steps directors can take to enhance governance in their organisations  Useful tools and resources from CPA Australia and AICD Whether you're a director, advisor or part of an NFP board, this episode offers valuable takeaways to help your organisation build trust, improve oversight and stay compliant in a complex regulatory environment.  Tune in for expert commentary and sector-specific advice that will help you lead with purpose and responsibility.  Host: Ram Subramanian, external reporting lead

With the federal election decided, attention turns to the road ahead for Australian businesses and the newly re-elected government's agenda.   This special episode delves into the critical economic challenges and opportunities ahead, offering expert perspectives on navigating the evolving landscape.   Explore Australia's current economic position – its strengths and weaknesses – and what priorities the Treasurer should focus on.  Listen now for a comprehensive briefing on the economic outlook covering:  Key priorities for the Treasurer based on Australia's economic health  The ripple effects of US policy and tariffs on Australian sectors  Policy levers the government can pull to navigate challenges  CPA Australia's "three R" recommendations for business and community improvement  How government’s zero-risk approach affects business  The importance of tax reform  Host: Elinor Kasapidis, Chief of Policy, Standards and External Affairs, CPA Australia   Guests:  

In this second instalment of a special two-part episode, a respected panel of industry experts dive deeper into the insights from CPA Australia’s 2025 Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey.  This landmark small business survey – launched at Parliament House in Canberra in March – captures data from over 4200 small businesses across the Asia-Pacific, including more than 500 Australian businesses, providing a timely snapshot of their performance, challenges and future priorities.  From sole traders and family-run operations to service providers, these are the enterprises that power the region’s economies – and the businesses CPA Australia and its members support every day.  Listen and learn key insights from a lively debate with highly respected industry voices discussing critical issues for small business in Australia and APAC.   Presenter: Elinor Kasapidis, Chief of Policy, Standards and External Affairs, CPA Australia   Panel:  Yasmin Coe FCPA, President of CPA Australia ACT Division Angad So