As Australia begins 2026, there’s no better time for business owners and financially savvy individuals to step back, review, and plan for the year ahead. The start of the year offers a rare opportunity to focus on strategic decision‑making before the busyness of the calendar kicks in — and with new tax and regulatory changes, a shifting economic landscape and personal financial goals on the horizon, proactive planning can make all the difference.
1. Review What Really Happened in 2025
The first step in planning is reflection.
- Analyse last year’s results — look at profit and loss statements, cash flow reports, balance sheets and performance against goals.
- Ask bold questions — what worked? What didn’t? Where did profits fall short, and where did you beat expectations?
- Spot patterns and trends so your 2026 plan is rooted in real data, not guesswork.
This honest review will help you set realistic, high‑impact goals.
2. Set Clear, Strategic Goals
Successful businesses don’t drift — they plan with purpose.
Use the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Timely) to build goals that matter:
- Grow revenue by X% by Q4
- Increase cash reserves to cover Y months of expenses
- Launch new product or service by June
Having clear metrics helps you track progress and pivot quickly when needed.
3. Create a Financial Roadmap — Not Just a Budget
Budgeting isn’t just about numbers — it’s about telling the story of your business plan.
- Build a cash flow forecast to anticipate shortfalls and peak periods. (leenanetempleton.com.au)
- Allocate dollars to strategic priorities: marketing, technology, staff development and system improvements.
- Keep a buffer of cash reserves — ideally one month of operating expenses — to protect against unexpected disruptions.
Cash flow planning is especially critical with post‑holiday slowdowns commonly affecting many Australian small businesses early in the year.
4. Stay on Top of Regulatory and Tax Changes
2026 brings several important compliance shifts — and compliance isn’t optional.
- Expect ongoing ATO focus on Single Touch Payroll (STP), GST/BAS lodgements, PAYG, and superannuation compliance.
- Recent government measures (like extended asset write‑offs through 30 June 2026) can be powerful planning tools if used early.
- Early tax planning helps reduce surprises and unlock strategic opportunities — don’t wait until June.
Working with a trusted accountant ensures you’re maximising deductions, complying with evolving rules and capturing every opportunity the tax system offers.
5. Track the Metrics That Drive Success
What gets measured gets managed — especially in a climate where every dollar counts.
Key metrics to watch in 2026 include:
- Operating cash flow and days’ cash on hand
- Gross profit margin
- Recurring revenue or contract renewal rates
- Debtor ageing and accounts receivable turnover
- Cost of customer acquisition vs lifetime value
Consistent tracking empowers you to make better decisions faster.
6. Reconnect With Your Personal Finances
As a business owner, your personal and business finances are deeply linked.
Start with these essentials:
- Household budget reset — set goals for savings, debt reduction and investment.
- Debt and investment review — assess mortgages, credit cards and superannuation; refinance or adjust if it makes sense.
- Build cushions — strengthen personal emergency funds to reduce stress during business fluctuations.
Personal financial health supports your resilience and gives you flexibility in business decision‑making.
7. Prioritise Well‑Being and Balance
Financial success is important — but so is your wellbeing.
- Schedule time for rest, hobbies and quality time with loved ones.
- Avoid burnout by setting clear work boundaries.
Maintaining this balance boosts creativity, leadership quality and long‑term sustainability.
8. Take Action Now — Not Later
The earlier you plan, the more options you unlock:
✔ More time to act on decisions
✔ Better tax planning and cash flow management
✔ Stronger grounding for strategic growth
Whether that’s launching a new initiative, tightening up systems, or refining your financial goals — planning now means stepping into 2026 with confidence.
Need Help Turning Plans into Performance?
Strategic planning — especially at the intersection of business growth and personal financial wellbeing — can be complex. Consulting with experienced professionals can provide clarity, accountability and tailored strategies to make your financial goals a reality. Contact our team today https://leenanetempleton.com.au/contact/
Here’s to a purposeful, profitable and balanced 2026!