VES Insights | July 2026

VES Insights, your go-to newsletter for the latest in bookkeeping, automation, AI, Xero tips, and essential ATO updates to keep you informed and on track. From simplifying your bookkeeping to harnessing the power of automation and AI, our newsletter is packed with valuable tools and reminders to help you stay ahead.

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Payday Super Has Started: What the ATO's First-Year Approach Really Means for Your Business

The ATO's first year of Payday Super is forgiving for employers who pay on payday and fix errors quickly. It is not a window to keep paying quarterly.

We've set out how the three risk zones work and what hasn't changed, so you know where you stand.

Read the full article for the three situations the ATO treats differently, plus a checklist to work through before your next pay run.

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The 2026 Wage Increase: What Changed on 1 July and What to Check in Your Payroll

The pay rise landed on 1 July, and most employers updated payroll and moved on. It's worth a second look, because "the increase" is actually two different numbers.

Award rates rose by one amount and the national minimum wage by another, so which one applies depends on how each person is paid.

Read the full article for the two increases explained, plus a short mid-year payroll check to work through.

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Card Surcharge Ban Starts on 1 October 2026

We covered the card surcharge ban earlier this year, and it's now close enough to be worth a second look.

From 1 October 2026, surcharges on most card payments end, and that's roughly two months away.

If you don't add a card fee at the checkout, this is largely a non-event. If you do, the task people tend to leave too late is switching surcharging off in your point-of-sale and payment setup, so it's worth confirming with your provider and testing early.

Read the full reminder for a quick refresher on what's changing, what's not covered, and a short list to work through before October.

Disclaimer: This newsletter is intended to provide general guidance and is not specific advice. We encourage you to seek tailored advice for your circumstances.