Are You Over Declaring Your GST?

Are you over declaring your hard earned cash and passing on more than you should to the ATO? GST was introduced on the 1st July 2000, nearly 20 years ago, yet many hoteliers are still getting it wrong.  Many businesses are adding a flat rate of 10% GST to their sales, which can in fact be incorrect.  The GST charged on your room rate in fact, depends on your guests stay and the general mix of guest staying at your Motel. These factors need to be taken into account when determining the GST to be charged, as certain GST concessions apply in different circumstances.

Are You Changing With The Times?

The Motel industry is a fast paced Industry and keeping up can often be challenging, but is a vital part of running a business. As consumer needs change, Motels also need to change in line with their demands. Technology is having a huge impact on the industry; from the way consumers book a room, to what they expect their room to contain. Smart T.V’s and wireless phone charges are just a few examples of these technological changes that guests now perceive as a necessity for their next stay. Old and outdated décor can also deter guest from booking a room and has a much bigger impact than you think.

Staying up to date is vital when running a Motel and we strongly recommend Motels incorporate this as part of their strategic planning.

Importance Of Getting Your Payroll Right!

Paying the correct payroll rate under the current Hospitality Award can be a difficult task given its complexity, however the wages scandal involving George Colombaris has indicated the importance of getting it right! Media releases have revealed that the high profile celebrity chef has underpaid his staff $7.8 million and is facing penalties up to $200,000.
Although this may seem like a small penalty given the size of the underpayment there will definitely be a larger impact on his reputation and his high-end restaurants across Melbourne. This has also resulted in calls for extra scrutiny across the hospitality industry as this is not the first instance a well renowned business has underpaid it’s staff.
We strongly recommend businesses to double check their payroll requirements and seek assistance if your are unsure.

Single Touch Payroll

From 1 July 2019 all employers are required to register for Single Touch Payroll (STP).

STP requires employers to report their wages data to the ATO every pay period, allowing the ATO to be fully informed of your payroll and employee obligations at all times.

Concessions apply for Micro Employers, employing 4 or less employees. These employers are able to report quarterly for the first two years, rather than every payroll period. Further concessions also apply for closely held employees, including family and related members.  The registration date for these employers has been deferred for 12 months, commencing on the 1st July 2020.

Given the impact that STP will have on businesses, the ATO have granted an additional 3 month grace period until the 30th September 2019 for employers with less than 20 employees to be fully compliant.

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Need further information? Contact our specialist advisors Nick or Vanessa to find out how you can stay ahead of the game!