Our experience
Arnold Bloch Leibler is renowned within the Australian business, legal and accounting communities as being the ‘go-to’ taxation law practice for corporate leaders, major companies and wealthy private clients.
We are often sought by our clients to advise on high-profile taxation audits and disputes and to provide commercial tax advice on complex commercial transactions. Our tax lawyers have formidable taxation knowledge and an unrivalled reputation for vigorously negotiating with the highest ranking officials from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Members of our tax team advise Government on revenue law issues, hold prominent positions on taxation-related steering and advisory committees and are active in professional education.
Arnold Bloch Leibler Tax Disputes Portal
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Our clients
As most of ABL’s tax matters are highly confidential, the firm does not generally disclose the specific details of our clients in this practice area, or the assistance that we provide to them. However, our client base includes:
- high-wealth individuals and family groups
- major shareholders of Australia’s largest privately owned and family run companies
- the founders of successful start-ups
- charitable and not-for-profit foundations
- trustees of large private funds
- innovative and entrepreneurial private equity houses
- accountants, investment advisers and other professional services providers
- ASX 200 listed companies, and
- the chief executive officers and senior executives of major corporations.
Major transactional work
Zip Co
Advised on its agreement to acquire US-based buy-now-pay-later provider, Sezzle.
Netflix Inc
Advised on the acquisition of visual-effects and animation studio, Animal Logic
Market Eye
Acted for shareholders in relation to its sale to one of Australia’s largest share registry businesses, Automic Group.
StarRez
Advised in relation to a significant strategic growth investment from global technology investment firm, Vista Equity Partners.
Nufarm Limited
Advised on tax issues associated with Nufarm's refinancing of its global secured syndicated bank facility ($485 million).
Royal Bank of Canada
Provided income tax advice in connection with the Australian aspects of the restructure of Civeo's $750 million global facilities.
Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited
Advised in relation to Fonterra's sale of its Australian yoghurt and dairy dessert business, specifically on GST and income tax issues, and assisted in drafting and negotiating documentation.
Ashe Morgan
Provided comprehensive income tax advice in connection with the structuring, documentation and financing aspects of Ashe Morgan's equity and debt arrangements for the acquisition of TC Beirne and related Chinatown properties in Queens
Vector Advanced Metering Services (Australia) Pty Ltd
Advised on tax aspects of Vector's rollout of smart meters for the supply of electricity in New South Wales, Australia. As part of the transaction, Vector has entered into arrangements with Origin Energy Retail Limited for the provisi
RCG Corporation Limited
Advised in relation to the $200 million acquisition of Accent Group Limited, the owner of the retail chain Platypus Shoes and the distributor and retailer of global brands such as Vans and Dr Martens.
Apollo Global and Oaktree Capital
Advised in relation to the $3.4 billion restructure of Nine Entertainment.
Värde Partners
Advised in relation to the $400 million recapitalisation and acquisition of Redcape Property Group (with York Capital and Goldman Sachs).
carsales.com.au
Advised in relation to its $60.1 million acquisition of a majority stake in Stratton Finance.
The Middleby Corporation
Advised on taxation aspects of the NASDAQ listed The Middleby Corporation’s successful acquisition of Goldstein Eswood, one of Australia’s leading commercial kitchen equipment manufacturers.
Charter Hall Group and Host Plus
Advised in relation to a joint acquisition of a $600 million property portfolio.
2027 Australian law firm of the year for tax
Taxation services
Taxation audits and disputes
ABL is the tax controversy sector leader in end-to-end management of taxation disputes and litigation arising from ATO compliance activities and audits. We act for high-net-worth individuals, private company groups and publicly listed companies regarding taxation audits, voluntary disclosures and defending claims brought by the ATO. To access our Tax Disputes Portal, click here.
Tax advice on major transactions
The taxation practice’s transaction advisory capabilities encompass advice in relation to the taxation implications of merger and acquisition transactions (including the purchase and sale of assets both domestically and overseas), restructuring both insolvent and solvent corporate groups, employee share schemes and executive remuneration, and inbound and outbound investment in Australia (including venture capital and cross-border financing).
Employee share schemes and incentives
Employers use Employee Share Schemes to attract, retain and motivate staff. Our team provides taxation and regulatory advice to leading ASX listed companies, share registries, employee share trust providers, private companies and innovative start-up businesses on all aspects of the design, implementation and administration of employee share schemes and incentives. To access our dedicated ESS page, click here.
Trusts
The taxation practice has extensive expertise in the areas of trusts, estate and succession planning, and the structuring and reorganisation of affairs to ensure they are tax efficient.
International taxation
Many of our clients are involved in cross-border transactions or have dealings with family or company groups with members based overseas. We advise clients of the Australian tax consequences of their offshore dealings and structures. The taxation practice also provides cross-border tax advice to individuals who are returning to, or departing from, Australia.
Need more information on doing business or investing in Australia?
Find out more
View our tax guide here.
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Insights & news
Insights Article
Blast from the past, or an uncertain future?
In last week's edition of TaxVine, published by The Tax Institute, partner Jonathan Ortner and lawyer Danielle Ou examined the Federal Government's proposed capital gains tax reforms, including the removal of the CGT discount, the reintroduction of indexation and the introduction of a new minimum tax on capital gains.
The article, Blast from the past, or an uncertain future?, explores the practical implications of these significant changes and the complexity they may create for taxpayers and their advisers. Read the full article below.
The article, Blast from the past, or an uncertain future?, explores the practical implications of these significant changes and the complexity they may create for taxpayers and their advisers. Read the full article below.
22 June 2026
News Deals & matters
ABL advises on landmark High Court victory
Arnold Bloch Leibler partner Paul Sokolowski is quoted in the Australian Financial Review and The Australian on the landmark decision this week in the High Court in favour of his client, Steven Bendel. The suburban accountant won his long-run tax avoidance case over the Australian Taxation Office, with judges ruling on Wednesday that Bendel and his company did not owe more than $1 million in additional taxes, penalties and interest.
15 June 2026
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler named 2027 ‘Law Firm of the Year’ for tax
Arnold Bloch Leibler has been recognised by Best Lawyers as the 2027 ‘Law Firm of the Year’ for tax law.
29 May 2026
News Media
Significant uncertainty looms for succession
Partner Christine Fleer says comments made by the Prime Minister over the weekend suggest that he fundamentally misunderstands the reasons for using discretionary rather than fixed trusts for inheritances.
19 May 2026
News Media
Pre and post-budget commentary from ABL tax team
Partners from Arnold Bloch Leibler’s renowned tax team have provided expert media commentary both before and after this week’s federal budget.
14 May 2026
News Media
CGT changes could make government a 50:50 partner in your start-up
In a comment article published in today’s AFR, tax partner Shaun Cartoon warns that if the government goes ahead and replaces the 50 per cent CGT discount, it would represent the most significant change to the taxation of private capital in a generation.
7 May 2026
News Announcement
ABL recognised in 2027 Best Lawyers® guide
In this year’s Best Lawyers® guide, 50 Arnold Bloch Leibler lawyers have been recognised across 28 areas of practice.
16 April 2026
News Deals & matters
ABL advises Bodycare on sale to Pacific Health Group
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised Bodycare Workplace Solutions and its shareholders on Bodycare’s acquisition by Pacific Health Group, a leading provider of healthcare and rehabilitation services.
7 April 2026
News Deals & matters
ABL advises Vista Equity Partners on strategic investment from global PE firm
Arnold Bloch Leibler has acted for US private equity firm Vista Equity Partners on the strategic investment in StarRez by Five Arrows, a private equity firm backed by Rothschild & Co, to support StarRez’s next phase of growth.
16 January 2026
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler named in the Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2026 guide
Arnold Bloch Leibler has been recognised in multiple categories in the 2026 edition of the independent Legal 500 Asia Pacific guide.
15 January 2026
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler recognised in the 2026 Chambers Asia-Pacific guide
Arnold Bloch Leibler has once again been listed in the Chambers Asia Pacific guide for 2026.
12 December 2025
News Media
Saving the family trust from a whopping tax bill requires urgent reform
Following on from articles in the AFR last weekend in which he was quoted, tax partner Jonathan Ortner has written a comment article calling on the government to simplify the family trust distribution tax (FTDT).
7 November 2025
News Media
Family trust court proceedings symptomatic of a wider issue
The AFR published two articles on the weekend focused on a court battle between one of Australia’s wealthiest families and the Australian Taxation Office. Tax partner Jonathan Ortner is quoted in both articles.
31 October 2025
Insights Media
Oracle decision proves the ATO can’t trample on treaty obligations
In an article commissioned by Bloomberg Law, tax partner Shaun Cartoon explores the decision by the Full Federal court to hand Oracle a “big win” against the Australian Tax Office.
28 October 2025
News Media
High Court win for PepsiCo shows the ATO “can’t wish royalties into being”
Tax partner Shaun Cartoon was invited by international business news agency Bloomberg to analyse last week’s ruling by the High Court in the long-running royalties and diverted profits tax dispute between the ATO and PepsiCo Inc.
18 August 2025
News Media
Team approach to tax law test case
Newly appointed senior associate Eileen Liu and the head of ABL’s tax practice, Paul Sokolowski, are working side by side to overturn an outdated tax ruling that prevents families from claiming child care fees as a tax deduction.
27 June 2025
News Media
Family trust tax changes come with major risks
Writing in today’s AFR, tax partner Shaun Cartoon argues that there’s ample scope for the government to reform the tax treatment of trusts, but there’s a risk that if they go too far investment, talent, and wealth will be pushed offshore.
24 June 2025
Insights Article
Hear from our Tax team
Arnold Bloch Leibler is renowned within the Australian business, legal and accounting communities as being the ‘go-to’ taxation law practice for corporate leaders, major companies and wealthy private clients. Sought out by clients to advise on high-profile taxation audits and disputes, and to provide commercial tax advice on complex transactions, our team has formidable taxation knowledge and an unrivalled reputation.
19 June 2025
News Media
Innocent mistakes around family trust elections risk significant tax and interest liabilities
Tax partner Jonathan Ortner is quoted extensively in today’s AFR, warning businesses of all shapes sizes about an ATO crackdown on family trust distributions tax dating back almost 30 years.
1 May 2025
News Media
Extreme Greens snatch tax reform narrative amid leadership vacuum
In a comment article published in today’s edition of The Australian, tax partner Shaun Cartoon describes the lack of political will to undertake serious tax reform in Australia as a “national tragedy”.
28 April 2025
News Announcement
ABL recognised in 2025/26 Best Lawyers® International guide
In this year’s Best Lawyers® International guide, 52 Arnold Bloch Leibler lawyers have been recognised across 29 areas of practice.
17 April 2025
News Media
Succession planning: feels like the tax commissioner is sitting at the kitchen table
In the second of a series of private wealth articles by ABL partners to be published in the AFR over coming months, tax partner Jonathan Ortner writes that what was once a relatively simple formula for passing on wealth to the next generation has become a maze of complex decisions with potentially severe tax consequences.
10 April 2025
News Deals & matters
ABL advises award-winning film and television production powerhouse See-Saw Films on sale of 51% majority stake to media conglomerate Mediawan
Arnold Bloch Leibler has acted as Australian legal counsel for UK and Australian based See-Saw Films on its sale of a majority 51% stake to French media conglomerate Mediawan S.A., a leading European audiovisual international production and distribution group.
18 March 2025
Insights Media
Doing the right thing: Taxpayer succeeds in Commissioner of Taxation v Bendel
A landmark decision handed down this week by the Full Court of the Federal Court has affirmed that certain payments owed by a trust to a corporate beneficiary should not be treated as loans for the purposes of Division 7A of the Tax Act.
21 February 2025
News Deals & matters
ABL advises Votiro on milestone acquisition by Menlo Security
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised Votiro Cybersec Global, a leading data and file security platform, on its acquisition by Menlo Security, an industry leader in Secure Enterprise Browsers.
20 February 2025
News Deals & matters
Doing the right thing: Division 7A and UPEs – Taxpayer succeeds in Commissioner of Taxation v Bendel
On 19 February 2025, the Full Court of the Federal Court, comprising Logan, Hespe, and Neskovcin JJ, handed down its much anticipated decision in Commissioner of Taxation v Bendel [2025] FCAFC 15 (Bendel Decision).
20 February 2025
News Deals & matters
Federal Court delivers landmark win for taxpayers in Division 7A case
Today, the Full Court of the Federal Court handed down its much anticipated decision in Commissioner of Taxation v Bendel [2025] FCAFC 15.
19 February 2025
News Media
Understanding the tax implications of succession planning
In a feature article published in the AFR, tax partner Jonathan Ortner says that the ATO is particularly focused on succession planning within family businesses at the moment in a bid to ensure that as assets are passed on, they are properly valued, accounted for, documented and assessed for tax.
10 February 2025
News Deals & matters
Arms of Eve secures strategic investment from Point King Capital
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised Arms of Eve founders, Aaron and Kerryn Langer, on the recent investment by private equity firm Point King Capital.
30 January 2025
Insights Media
SKY Business Weekend: Shaun Cartoon on how Australia can respond to Trump's tax advantage
In a broadcast on Sunday’s first edition of Business Weekend for 2025, ABL tax partner Shaun Cartoon explained why US President Trump's policy agenda makes tax reform a pre-election imperative for Australia.
26 January 2025
Insights Media
Trump’s tax plans will send Aussie businesses to the US
In an opinion article published in the Australian Financial Review, tax partner Shaun Cartoon warns that Donald Trump’s inauguration this week “heralds an unprecedented era of tax warfare between sovereign nations, threatening the globalist movement towards tax co-operation and heaping pressure on Australia to commit to long-overdue, politically contentious tax reform”.
23 January 2025
News Announcement
ABL recognised in Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2025
Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) has been ranked across a number of categories in the 2025 edition of the independent Legal 500 Asia Pacific guide.
16 January 2025
Insights Article
Key Private Group Tax developments: 2024 year in review
In this article our Tax team has reflected on the most significant tax developments for private groups over the past 12 months.
24 December 2024
Insights Article
New tax concessions for build-to-rent developments
On 1 January 2025, new income tax concessions in the “build to rent” (BTR) housing sector come into force, incentivising investment and construction in the BTR sector.
24 December 2024
Insights Article
Key Corporate Tax developments: 2024 year in review
In this article our Tax team has prepared a list of reflections in corporate tax from 2024.
24 December 2024
Insights Article
Navigating the Tax landscape: 2025 Outlook for Corporations
In this article our Tax team presents key corporate tax developments corporations should monitor in 2025.
24 December 2024
Insights Article
Navigating the Tax landscape: 2025 Outlook for private groups
In this article our Tax team outlines key tax developments for private groups to watch in 2025.
24 December 2024
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler listed in 2025 Chambers Asia Pacific guide
Arnold Bloch Leibler has once again been recognised in the Chambers Asia Pacific guide for 2025.
16 December 2024
Insights Article
No Vacancy: Victoria’s vacancy tax holiday comes to an end
Victoria’s significant expansion of vacant residential land tax (VRLT) kicks in on 1 January 2025. VRLT is not a new tax, but has now become a must-consider impost on landowners across the whole State – particularly those with holiday homes.
16 December 2024
News Announcement
Eileen Liu recognised as a rising star in Australian tax law
Eileen has been announced as a finalist in the tax category of this year’s hotly contested Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards.
28 November 2024
Insights Media
UK Employee Share Ownership guru visits Australia with a tried-and-tested strategy for lifting productivity
Tax partner Shaun Cartoon writes in today’s edition of The Australian that while the government searches for new ideas to boost productivity, it should be exploring a thriving new model of employee share ownership that’s taken off in the United Kingdom.
19 November 2024
Insights Media
Australia’s non-dom opportunity awaits
In a comment article published in today’s edition of The Australian, tax partner Jonathan Ortner observes that Australia could benefit from the cancellation of the UK’s non-domicile regime if we play our cards right.
4 November 2024
Insights Article
Family Trust Elections: Are they in vogue?
Family Trust Elections (FTEs), a common practice among family groups, have recently come under increased scrutiny from the Commissioner of Taxation and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Given the potentially severe tax and interest implications and an unlimited review period, it is essential to understand the rules.
28 October 2024
Insights Article
Lawyer Spotlight: Meet Tim Graham
Introducing Tim, a Tax lawyer from our Melbourne office. We sat down with Tim to discuss his practice, the ABL tax team, and his involvement with our public interest department.
16 October 2024
Insights Article
Lawyer Spotlight: Meet Danielle Ou
Introducing Danielle Ou, a tax lawyer in our Sydney office. She has worked across both the New Zealand and Australian markets for both inbound and outbound multinational companies. We sat down with Danielle to discuss her varied tax expertise.
18 September 2024
Insights Media
Prepping family wealth for an uncertain future
In a comment article published in today’s AFR, tax partner Shaun Cartoon writes that while the formula for wealth creation and preservation has relied heavily on property for decades, a steady stream of new taxes is raising questions around whether this previously reliable blueprint continues to be fit for purpose.
11 September 2024
Insights Article
PepsiCo’s battle with the ATO continues
On 9 August 2024, the Commissioner announced he had sought special leave to appeal to the High Court. The Commissioner also announced that he will defer finalisation of his draft ruling on software royalties (TR 2024/D1) pending the outcome of the High Court proceedings.
12 August 2024
Insights Media
PepsiCo wins high stakes appeal – Shaun Cartoon outlines the implications in Bloomberg international business bulletin
Writing for Bloomberg Industry Group’s international tax news bulletin, Shaun argues that the recent decision by the Full Federal Court of Australia to absolve PepsiCo Inc. from its royalty withholding tax liability has cast doubt on the Australian Taxation Office’s position on “embedded royalties”.
3 July 2024
Insights Media
ATO scrutiny requires wealthy families and their advisers to be vigilant
Writing in today’s AFR, tax partner Shaun Cartoon warns that a popular family group structure is particularly vulnerable to scrutiny from the ATO – companies falling foul of Division 7A.
25 June 2024
Insights Article
In conversation with Eileen Liu
Eileen Liu, a lawyer in Arnold Bloch Leibler's market leading taxation practice, recently represented the firm at the Global Equity Organization’s annual conference in Nashville, where a world-first report that she was involved in producing was launched. Eileen is a member of the GEO’s Australian chapter committee and was joint recipient of the GEO Star Award in 2023 for her contributions.
30 May 2024
Insights Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler recognised by Best Lawyers® as ‘Law Firm of the Year’ for Tax
Arnold Bloch Leibler's tax practice has been recognised by Best Lawyers® International 2025 as 'Law Firm of the Year'.
30 May 2024
Insights Media
All eyes on PepsiCo appeal of the Federal Court’s embedded royalties decision
Commissioned by Bloomberg international business news platform to comment on the appeal by PepsiCo of its “embedded royalties” case, tax partner Shaun Cartoon says revenue collection agencies around the world, as well as executives at multinational companies, are watching with bated breath.
8 May 2024
News Deals & matters
ABL advises founder Matt Tripp on betr's landmark merger with BlueBet
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised online wagering business betr on its merger with ASX-listed BlueBet.
11 April 2024
News Media
No medals for Australia in inaugural survey of employee share schemes
The first global survey of employee share schemes has found Australia lagging well behind the US and advanced economies of Europe, and also New Zealand.
11 April 2024
Insights Media
All pop and no fizz for Pepsi – partner Shaun Cartoon explains federal court decision on SKY Business
In a segment broadcast on last Sunday’s edition of Business Weekend, tax partner Shaun Cartoon explained some of the finer details of a landmark ruling by the federal court late last year that Schweppes Australia, a company contracted to provide bottling services for the US-based PepsiCo group, paid royalties for its exclusive bottling rights to the PepsiCo Group, triggering withholding tax, or in the alternative, the diverted profits tax.
2 April 2024
Insights Article
Is your property affected? A breakdown of Victoria's property tax reforms
The first step in Victoria’s transition from stamp duty to property tax will commence on 1 July 2024. The new regime will only apply to qualifying commercial and industrial properties.
2 April 2024
Insights Media
Tax Office changed for the better under Jordan
In a comment article published in today’s AFR, senior partner Mark Leibler draws on half a century of experience as a tax lawyer to reflect on the legacy of outcoming Tax Commissioner Chris Jordan.
22 February 2024
Insights Article
Tax developments for private groups to watch in 2024
In this article our Tax team has prepared a list of developments for private groups to watch out for in 2024.
5 February 2024
Insights Article
Corporate tax developments to watch in 2024
In this article our Tax team has prepared a list of developments in corporate tax to watch out for in 2024.
5 February 2024
Insights Article
Top corporate tax developments of 2023
With 2023 now well and truly behind us, our Tax team has reflected on the most significant developments in corporate tax over the past 12 months. We have also highlighted some developments to watch out for in 2024 here.
4 February 2024
Insights Article
Top private group tax developments of 2023
In this article our Tax team has reflected on the most significant tax developments for private groups over the past 12 months.
4 February 2024
Insights Article
All pop and no fizz for Pepsi! PepsiCo files to appeal federal court’s decision in relation to its intangible arrangement
On 30 November 2023, Moshinsky J handed down a landmark decision as the Court’s first consideration of the diverted profits tax (DPT) provisions since its introduction in 2017. In short, the Court ruled that Schweppes Australia Pty Ltd (SAPL), an Australian company owned by Asahi Breweries and contracted to provide bottling services for the PepsiCo group, paid royalties for its exclusive bottling rights to the PepsiCo Group, triggering withholding tax, or in the alternative, the DPT.
1 February 2024
News Announcement
ABL ranked in Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2024 guide
Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) has been listed across a number of categories in the 2024 edition of the independent Legal 500 Asia Pacific guide.
22 January 2024
Insights Article
Important Reforms to be on top of before the new year starts
As the new year approaches, not-for-profit organisations face a series of important reforms that demand attention and proactive measures.
18 December 2023
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler recognised in 2024 Chambers Asia Pacific guide
Arnold Bloch Leibler has once again been listed in the Chambers Asia Pacific guide for 2024.
12 December 2023
News Article
Senate amendments to the Making Multinationals Pay Their Fair Share Bill
On 29 November 2023, the Senate moved further changes to the much-criticised Treasury Laws Amendment (Making Multinationals Pay Their Fair Share – Integrity and Transparency) Bill 2023.
7 December 2023
News Deals & matters
ABL acts for AsheMorgan on largest office purchase of the year
Arnold Bloch Leibler has acted for commercial property fund manager, AsheMorgan, on its purchase of an office tower and the MetCentre at 60 Margaret Street, Sydney.
23 November 2023
News Deals & matters
ABL advises National Veterinary Associates on sale of VetPartners to EQT Group
Arnold Bloch Leibler have advised National Veterinary Associates (NVA) on the sale of VetPartners, its Australian and New Zealand veterinary and animal health services business, to EQT Group, a Scandinavian private equity firm.
12 October 2023
Insights Article
Is an unpaid present entitlement a ‘loan’ under Division 7A? AAT says no.
On 28 September 2023, Deputy President F D O’Loughlin KC and Senior Member K James of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal handed down their decision in Bendel and Commissioner of Taxation (Taxation) [2023] AATA 3074 (28 September 2023). The case was primarily concerned with whether an unpaid present entitlement (UPE) (as to income or capital) owing to a corporate beneficiary was a ‘loan’ within the meaning of section 109D(3) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 (Cth), as contained within Division 7A.
4 October 2023
Insights Article
Understanding the proposed debt deduction creation rules
Continuing concerns over the erosion of the Australian tax base by multinational companies have given rise to a new set of proposed integrity provisions called the “debt deduction creation rules” (DDC rules).
28 September 2023
News Announcement
Clint Harding recognised with prestigious award for services to the tax profession
Arnold Bloch Leibler tax partner Clint Harding has taken out the top honour in The Tax Institute’s Community Achievement Awards 2023.
13 September 2023
Insights Article
Changes to self-assessing as income tax exempt
The Australian Tax Office (ATO) has made changes to requirements for non-charitable not-for-profit organisations that self-assess as eligible for income tax exemption, for example, sporting organisations.
13 September 2023
Insights Media
Quick action needed to catch family office boom
In a comment article published in today’s Australian Financial Review, tax partner Shaun Cartoon explains that although Australia is unlikely ever to match the generous tax concessions that have propelled the popularity of family offices in Singapore and Hong Kong, proposed changes to our tax residency laws are generating a degree of optimism among offshore clients.
7 August 2023
Insights Article
Changes to thin capitalisation – updated legislation
The Federal Government has now introduced the Treasury Laws Amendment (Making Multinationals Pay Their Fair Share—Integrity and Transparency) Bill 2023 (Bill) and Explanatory Memorandum to Parliament.
20 July 2023
News Announcement
ABL announces 2023 Partner, Special Counsel and Senior Associate appointments
The partners of Arnold Bloch Leibler are delighted to announce this year’s Partner, Special Counsel and Senior Associate appointments, effective July 2023.
28 June 2023
Insights Media
The rise of specific integrity provisions
Partner Jonathan Ortner features in The Tax Institute's Tax Vine newsletter and surveys the landscape of specific integrity provisions for private groups, considering their purpose and scope, and calling for action to reform.
16 June 2023
Insights Media
Part IVA: more tweaks and turns
Partner Clint Harding features in The Tax Institute’s Tax Vine newsletter and considers the role of Part IVA in our tax system and the proposed changes to Part IVA in the 2023-24 Federal Budget.
8 June 2023
Insights Events
Shaun Cartoon discusses ESS policy changes at the Morgan Stanley Australia Summit
Tax Partner, Shaun Cartoon, was invited to be a panellist at Morgan Stanley’s Australia Summit along with Sarah Tinsley, General Counsel and Company Secretary, Culture Amp, and Sally Mulligan, Head of Morgan Stanley at Work APAC.
7 June 2023
Insights Article
Victoria’s COVID Recovery Budget
The Victorian government has recently released the 2023/24 state budget. Our team of experts has summarised what that means for you.
24 May 2023
Insights Article
Deductions for significant global entities for payments relating to intangible assets connected with low corporate tax jurisdictions
On 31 March 2023, Treasury released the Exposure Draft of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Measures for Consultation) Bill 2023: Deductions for payments relating to intangible assets connected with low corporate tax jurisdictions.
12 May 2023
News Deals & matters
ABL acts for Chargrill Charlie’s and its founders on sale to Craveable Brands
Arnold Bloch Leibler has acted for the famed Chargrill Charlie’s business and its founders on the sale of Chargrill Charlie’s to private equity owned Craveable Brands (owner of Australian-based franchises including Red Rooster, Oporto and Chicken Treat).
10 May 2023
Insights Article
A budget promise - changes to the thin capitalisation regime
Following its announcement in the October 2022-23 Federal Budget, Treasury has recently released the Exposure Draft and Explanatory Materials for the proposed changes to the thin capitalisation regime contained in Division 820 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (Cth) (ITAA 1997). The proposed new interest limitation rules will replace the existing thin capitalisation safe harbour, worldwide gearing and arm’s length debt tests.
28 March 2023
Insights Article
Court of Appeal says neigh: no land tax exemption for “integrated” horse breeding and racing activities
Landowners claiming the primary production exemption for land tax have a new reason to carefully consider the activities undertaken on their properties.
22 March 2023
Insights Article
Government introduces new integrity measures for off-market share buy-backs and franked distributions funded by capital raisings
On 16 February 2023, the Government introduced the Treasury Laws Amendment (2023 Measures No. 1) Bill 2023 (the Bill). The Bill introduces measures to ‘improve the integrity of off-market buy-backs’ and deny franking credits on certain distributions funded by capital raisings, following the release of draft legislation for consultation late last year.
8 March 2023
Insights Article
NSW foreign tax surcharges on the rocks – and more to follow?
On 21 February 2023, Revenue NSW announced a significant change in policy.
23 February 2023
Insights Media
Plan to “unmask” beneficial owners a lose/lose overreach
An article in yesterday's AFR cites a submission made to Treasury by Arnold Bloch Leibler in which we describe the government’s proposal to create a publicly accessible register of the “beneficial owners” of more than 3 million private companies as a “sledgehammer approach”.
16 February 2023
Insights Article
TA 2023/1: Interposition of a holding company to access company profits tax-free
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has announced that it is reviewing arrangements that allow individuals to access the retained earnings of private companies tax-free through an interposed company.
10 February 2023
Insights Article
Tax developments for private groups to watch in 2023
In this article, our Tax team has prepared a list of tax developments for private groups to watch out for in 2023.
6 February 2023
Insights Article
Top 5 private group tax developments of 2022
In this article, our Tax team has reflected on the most significant tax developments for private groups over the past 12 months and some to watch out for in 2023.
6 February 2023
Insights Article
Corporate tax developments to watch in 2023
In this article, our Tax team has prepared a list of developments in corporate tax to watch out for in 2023.
6 February 2023
Insights Article
Top 5 corporate tax developments of 2022
With 2022 now well and truly behind us, our Tax team has reflected on the most significant developments in corporate tax over the past 12 months and some to watch out for in 2023.
6 February 2023
Insights Article
Guardian decision leaves key section 100A questions unanswered
On 24 January 2023, the Full Federal Court handed down its long-awaited decision in Commissioner of Taxation v Guardian AIT Pty Ltd ATF Australian Investment Trust [2023] FCAFC 3. This is the latest in a series of recent cases considering the application of section 100A and Part IVA to private groups.
30 January 2023
News Announcement
ABL recognised in Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2023
Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) has been listed across a number of categories in the 2023 edition of the independent Legal 500 Asia Pacific guide.
17 January 2023
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler listed in 2023 Chambers Asia Pacific guide
Arnold Bloch Leibler has once again been highly listed in the Chambers Asia Pacific guide for 2023.
16 December 2022
Insights Media
Dealing with the public and private dichotomy in M&A tax issues
In this month’s Taxation in Australia journal, published by The Tax Institute, partner Clint Harding and lawyer Danielle Ou unpack some of the key tax issues to be aware of when navigating the dichotomy between private and public companies in M&A transactions.
25 November 2022
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler named in the 2022 Doyle’s Guide
Arnold Bloch Leibler has once again been featured across a number of practice areas in this year’s Doyle’s Guide to the Australian legal profession.
9 November 2022
Insights Article
Deadline is fast approaching to apply for your Director Identification Number
All directors and alternate directors of companies, registered Australian bodies and registered foreign companies under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (Corporations Act) must obtain a director identification number (Director ID) by 30 November 2022.
2 November 2022
Insights Media
New regime will enable companies to scale up ambitions for employee ownership
In a comment article published in today's AFR, tax partner Shaun Cartoon writes that if sweeping new rules that came into effect on October 1 are to realise their potential, Australia needs to inculcate an employee ownership culture to match world-leading jurisdictions such as the United States and Britain.
27 October 2022
News Deals & matters
ABL acts on the establishment of new Australian wagering business
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised Tripp Group and Tekkorp Holdings on the launch of a new Australian online wagering business, betr.
7 October 2022
Insights Media
New tool to reel in foreign investors
In a comment article published in today’s AFR, tax partner Shaun Cartoon explains how having a new flow through vehicle on the menu of Australia’s funds’ restructuring regime is the culmination of more than a decade’s work by successive governments.
5 September 2022
Insights Article
TA 2022/2: Treaty shopping arrangements to obtain reduced withholding tax rates
On 20 July 2022, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) released Taxpayer Alert TA 2022/2 on treaty shopping arrangements to obtain reduced withholding tax rates in relation to royalty or dividend payments from Australia.
2 August 2022
Insights Media
Tax system quirk could hit executive hip pockets
In a comment article published in today’s AFR, tax partner Shaun Cartoon explains how the sharemarket’s roller-coaster ride of the past 12 months has created the “perfect storm for self-inflicted, share schemes tax damage.”
26 July 2022
Insights Article
Meet newly appointed senior associate Micaela Bernfield
We spoke to newly promoted senior associate Micaela Bernfield about why she chose to specialise in tax law, what the work involves day to day and how her ongoing studies enhance her ability to deliver the best outcomes for clients.
21 July 2022
Insights Article
Navigating through a Commercial Deals engagement with the Australian Taxation Office
In this video, Tax partner Paul Sokolowski provides some tips on how to navigate a commercial deals engagement with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
14 July 2022
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler introduces new partner and newly appointed senior associates
Arnold Bloch Leibler is delighted to introduce our new partner, Jennifer McCosker, who recently joined the firm‘s property and development team in Sydney. Jennifer has extensive experience in a wide range of private and public real estate, corporate real estate and private equity transactions including acquisitions, disposals, real estate finance, leasing and development matters.
28 June 2022
Insights Media
Road to tax reform paved with good ideas just waiting to be enacted
Writing in today’s Australian newspaper, tax partner Shaun Cartoon argues that the road to tax reform is already paved with many good ideas just waiting to be enacted. He suggests a list of “low hanging fruit” for the new Treasurer to advance the agenda.
27 June 2022
Insights Article
New Corporate Collective Investment Vehicle regime
In February 2022, the Corporate Collective Investment Vehicle (CCIV) regime was enacted. The CCIV regime is designed to internationalise the Australian funds management industry, incorporating elements of similar regimes in Singapore, Hong Kong, the United Kingdom and other jurisdictions.
17 June 2022
Insights Media
“Experience and a little bit of wisdom”: AFR quotes Mark Leibler on succession planning
In an insightful feature on approaches to succession among Australia's wealthiest families, AFR journalist Neil Chenoweth conveys insights from a range of their most trusted advisers, including Arnold Bloch Leibler's senior partner Mark Leibler.
27 May 2022
Insights Events
ABL co-hosts webinar on Israel – Australia tax considerations
Arnold Bloch Leibler and Israeli accounting firm, Broide & Co, recently hosted a webinar discussion for clients providing insights on tax and financial emigration issues for Australians planning aliya or with interests in Israel.
24 May 2022
Insights Article
Decrypting the Australian tax implications of donating digital money
In an article published in the Australian Tax Review, Arnold Bloch Leibler partner Shaun Cartoon, special counsel Bridgid Cowling and lawyer Eileen Liu consider the Australian income tax and governance issues that arise when a taxpayer makes a gift of cryptocurrency to a deductible gift recipient (DGR).
17 May 2022
Insights Article
Understanding the implications of Addy v Commissioner of Taxation
Tax partner Clint Harding featured in The Tax Institute’s Tax Vine newsletter explaining the ATO’s response to the High Court’s decision in Addy v Commissioner of Taxation [2021] HCA 34 (Addy).
28 April 2022
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler named ‘Law Firm of the Year’ for Tax
Arnold Bloch Leibler’s renowned tax practice has been recognised as the finest in Australia, winning the top spot in the 2022/23 edition of the Best Lawyers in Australia guide.
27 April 2022
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler voted Australia’s ‘Law firm of the Year’ in two practice areas
Covering the annual results in today’s AFR, legal editor Michael Pelly notes that Arnold Bloch Leibler was the only firm with fewer than 90 partners (we currently have 43 partners) to win more than one category. He quotes managing partner Henry Lanzer AM saying that tax and insolvency “embody the essence” of the firm, singling out practice leaders Mark Leibler AC and Leon Zwier.
21 April 2022
Insights Media
ATO warns super rich of ‘unprecedented powers’ to scrutinise wealth
In today’s AFR, tax partner Clint Harding explains that a further funding boost from the recent federal budget will enable the ATO to extend its Tax Avoidance Taskforce for another two years, reinforcing its capacity to scrutinise wealthy individuals and private groups for tax avoidance or non-compliance.
13 April 2022
Insights Media
Regulatory reforms to promote greater employee share ownership
An article published in today’s AFR explores how reforms to employee share schemes announced in last month’s federal budget will allow Australian companies to provide meaningful equity incentives to employees in a tight labour market.
13 April 2022
Insights Article
Doing business or investing in Australia: A Tax Guide
Our tax team has prepared an essential guide on doing business or investing in Australia. Australia has a complex tax landscape with taxes applicable at both a Federal level and at the State and Territory level.
7 April 2022
Insights Media
Tax and the rule of law: Mark Leibler delivers 2022 Annual Tax Lecture at Melbourne Law School
As reported in today’s Australian newspaper, senior partner Mark Leibler has used the prestigious Annual Tax Lecture to mount the case that taxpayers should be protected for operating within the framework of past guidance or practice of the Commissioner of Taxation.
4 April 2022
Insights Media
New era for employee share ownership
In a comment article published in today’s AFR, tax partner Shaun Cartoon explains why reforms to be introduced in tomorrow’s federal budget herald a new era of workforce participation and ownership of start-ups.
28 March 2022
Insights Article
Identification requirements for company Directors
From 5 April 2022, anyone proposing to become a company Director must first obtain a director identification number (Director ID). This is the second phase in the implementation of the Director ID requirements which came into effect on 1 November 2021.
25 March 2022
Insights Media
“Legal industry doyen” Mark Leibler says GG should strip Dyson Heydon of his AC
In today’s AFR, legal editor Michael Pelly reports that Arnold Bloch Leibler’s senior partner has come out publicly with the view that former High Court judge Dyson Heydon should no longer hold the highest honour conferred in the Australian Honours System. This follows an independent investigation undertaken by Dr Vivienne Thom that found Heydon had sexually harassed six women during his decade on the court.
17 March 2022
News Deals & matters
ABL acts for Zip on $491m acquisition and latest capital raising
Arnold Bloch Leibler has acted for ASX-listed Zip Co Limited (Zip) on its agreement to acquire US-based buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) provider, Sezzle.
28 February 2022
Insights Article
Old wine, new bottles - ATO sharpens focus on trusts and income distributions
Arnold Bloch Leibler’s tax team has issued a bulletin to our network of tax advisers, alerting them to potential risks that might arise for clients from a suite of documents released this week by the Australian Tax Office.
25 February 2022
Insights Media
New ATO practical compliance guidelines to impact professional services firms
In an article published by CPA Australia, tax partner Paul Sokolowski argues that new profit allocation compliance guidelines, issued by the Australian Tax Office (ATO) late last year, don’t usefully connect to existing tax laws around anti-avoidance provisions or personal income services.
9 February 2022
News Deals & matters
ABL acts for StarRez on strategic investment from Vista Equity Partners
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised leading global resident and property management software provider StarRez in relation to a significant strategic growth investment from global technology investment firm, Vista Equity Partners.
28 January 2022
News Announcement
Legal 500 Asia Pacific results 2022
Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) has been listed across a number of categories in the 2022 edition of the independent Legal 500 Asia Pacific guide.
17 January 2022
Insights Article
Tax developments for private groups to watch in 2022
In this article our Tax team has prepared a list of tax developments for private groups to watch out for in 2022.
21 December 2021
Insights Article
Corporate tax developments to watch in 2022
In this article our Tax team has prepared a list of developments in corporate tax to watch out for in 2022.
21 December 2021
Insights Article
Top 5 corporate tax developments in 2021
As 2021 draws to a close, our Tax team has reflected on the most significant developments in corporate tax over the past 12 months and some to watch out for in 2022.
21 December 2021
Insights Article
BEPS 2.0 – A taxing time for big tech
On 8 October 2021, the OECD released a historic statement, transforming the international tax landscape and addressing the tax challenges that arise from globalisation and the increasingly digital economy (October Statement).
21 December 2021
Insights Article
Top 5 private group tax developments in 2021
In this article our Tax team has reflected on the most significant tax developments for private groups over the past 12 months and some to watch out for in 2022.
21 December 2021
News Announcement
Joey Borensztajn recognised at Collingwood Football Club AGM
At last week’s Annual General Meeting of the Collingwood Football Club, partner Joey Borensztajn was presented with a prestigious special services award for his work in support of the Collingwood Football Club Foundation. The club’s media release described Joey as a significant contributor to Collingwood’s philanthropic mission.
20 December 2021
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler recognised in 2022 Chambers Asia Pacific guide
Arnold Bloch Leibler has once again been featured in the Chambers Asia Pacific guide for 2022.
17 December 2021
Insights Article
Next 5,000 findings report issued by the ATO
The Australian Tax Office (ATO) has published its Next 5,000 findings report which covers its observations and insights into what the ATO has seen through the program to date.
8 December 2021
Insights Media
Inbound investments
Partner Clint Harding and lawyer Alexander Rasmussen have been interviewed for another episode of the podcast program Tax Talks.
17 November 2021
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler recognised in the 2021 Doyle’s Guide
Arnold Bloch Leibler has once again featured across a number of practice areas in the 2021 Doyle’s Guide to the Australian legal profession.
9 November 2021
News Media
High Court provides practical reading of Australia’s tax treaty obligations
In an article in today’s AFR, tax partner Clint Harding contextualises the High Court’s decision against the controversial backpacker tax.
4 November 2021
Insights Media
Cross-border royalties
In the final episode of a three-part podcast series with Tax Talks, partner Clint Harding and lawyer Alexander Rasmussen discuss the implications of cross-border royalties.
28 October 2021
Insights Media
To block or not to block
Tax partner Clint Harding and lawyer Alexander Rasmussen have been interviewed for a second episode of the podcast program, Tax Talks.
21 October 2021
Insights Media
International Taxation 101
Tax partner Clint Harding and lawyer Alexander Rasmussen have been interviewed for an episode of the podcast program, Tax Talks.
7 October 2021
Insights Article
ATO sets its sights on undeclared foreign income
The ATO has recently released an alert (TA 2021/2): Disguising undeclared foreign income as gifts or loans from related overseas entities.
6 October 2021
Insights Media
ATO targets ‘gifts’ from overseas
In an opinion article published in today’s AFR, tax partner Jonathan Ortner warns taxpayers that unless they are meticulous in documenting perfectly legal arrangements, they may find a windfall gift from overseas treated as assessable income.
24 September 2021
Insights Media
Prioritise ESS reforms on path to economic recovery
Tax partner Shaun Cartoon is quoted extensively in an article on proposed changes to Australia’s employee share scheme regime.
2 September 2021
Insights Media
A “softer touch” likely for groups with high assurance rating from ATO
An article published by Accountants Daily quotes tax partner Shaun Cartoon outlining the value for taxpayers in engaging constructively with the ATO around its Justified Trust program.
31 August 2021
Insights Media
Super fund non-arm’s length income rules in need of urgent reform
In an article published in Thomson Reuters Weekly Tax Bulletin, Taxation partner Shaun Cartoon and lawyer Andrew Spierings took the time to explain the application of the ATO’s recently released Law Companion Ruling 2021/2.
23 August 2021
News Deals & matters
ABL advises on sale of Ferocia to Bendigo and Adelaide Bank
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised Melbourne-based fintech, Ferocia Pty Ltd, and its co-founders, Dominic Pym and Grant Thomas, on the sale of Ferocia to Bendigo and Adelaide Bank.
17 August 2021
Insights Media
ATO ruling aimed at SMSFs could create a “monumental” tax issue for large funds
A much-anticipated ruling, finalised last week by the ATO, has the potential to trigger billion-dollar tax liabilities that would ultimately be borne by mum and dad members of large superannuation funds, according to tax partner Shaun Cartoon.
2 August 2021
Insights Events
Arnold Bloch Leibler hosts International Fiscal Association Australia tax briefing
Last week Arnold Bloch Leibler hosted an International Fiscal Association (IFA) Australia webinar featuring panellists from the Australian Treasury, Rio Tinto and the Australian Taxation Office.
21 July 2021
Insights Article
Foreign beneficiaries and capital gains
In an article published in the Thomson Reuters Weekly Tax Bulletin, partner Clint Harding outlines the significance of the recent decision by the Full Federal Court on the taxpayers' appeals from Peter Greensill Family Co Pty Ltd (trustee) v FCT [2020] FCA 559 (Greensill) and N & M Holdings Pty Ltd v FCT [2020] FCA 1186 (Martin).
15 July 2021
Insights Media
ATO’s interim report on private wealth compliance program
An article published by Accountants Daily quotes ABL tax partner Shaun Cartoon on the rollout of the ATO’s tax compliance programs targeting privately owned and wealthy groups.
13 July 2021
Insights Article
Vic budget update for landholders and property developers
The 2021-22 Victorian budget unveiled a suite of tax hikes.
21 May 2021
Insights Media
Australia finally on the map with employee share schemes
In an opinion article published in today’s AFR, tax partner Shaun Cartoon explains the good sense of the government’s long-awaited enhancements to the operation of employee share schemes.
17 May 2021
Insights Media
From a soft hug to a tight squeeze: ATO tightens its grip on private and high wealth groups
In an interview with Accountants Daily, Tax partners Jonathan Ortner and Shaun Cartoon spoke about the ATO’s Top 500 and Next 5,000 Programs and explained why a soft hug can quickly turn into a tight squeeze.
14 May 2021
News Announcement
Introducing the Arnold Bloch Leibler Tax Disputes Portal
With the ATO now re-focusing on compliance programs directed at private wealth, Arnold Bloch Leibler’s renowned tax practice has developed an online portal to provide clients and tax practitioners with current information as three new compliance programs are rolled out.
4 May 2021
News Deals & matters
ABL acts for ME Bank on its $1.325bn sale to BOQ
A multi-disciplinary team of Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) lawyers has advised ME Bank on its $1.325 billion sale to the Bank of Queensland.
23 February 2021
News Announcement
2021 Legal 500 Asia Pacific results
Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) has been listed across a number of categories in the 2021 edition of the independent Legal 500 Asia Pacific guide.
19 January 2021
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler features in 2021 Chambers Asia Pacific guide
Arnold Bloch Leibler has once again been recognised as a leading firm by the independent legal guide Chambers Asia Pacific.
16 December 2020
Insights Article
Q&A with returned Tax Partner Shaun Cartoon
Tax Partner Shaun Cartoon began his career in the firm's tax practice before travelling and working abroad. We spoke with Shaun following his recent return to the firm and what it's like to be back.
24 November 2020
News Announcement
Clint Harding recognised as one of Australia’s finest tax partners
Tax partner Clint Harding is a finalist in this year’s Lawyers Weekly 'Partner of the Year' Awards, in recognition of his specialist work in “intricate taxation matters”.
13 October 2020
Insights Article
Tax senior associate Peter Scott considers the scope and limits of the single entity rule
Senior associate Peter Scott has written an article for the Australian Tax Forum journal, where he highlights key areas of uncertainty in Australia’s tax consolidation regime.
8 October 2020
Insights Events
Quick takes on tax: NSW and Vic state tax and FIRB topical issues
Arnold Bloch Leibler tax team members recently presented recent changes to the NSW and Victorian foreign duty surcharges, a summary of Victorian COVID-19 initiatives and a discussion of the changing FIRB landscape.
1 October 2020
Insights Events
Quick takes on tax: Section 100A
Arnold Bloch Leibler tax team members provided a brief overview of the operation of s 100A before working through case studies to show the (sometimes) surprising potential reach of s 100A.
24 September 2020
Insights Events
Quick takes on tax: 99B and transferor trusts issues
In a recent webinar, Arnold Bloch Leibler tax team members discussed two specific integrity measures aimed at foreign trusts.
18 September 2020
Insights Article
Quick takes on tax: International issues with trusts and CGT
Arnold Bloch Leibler tax team members provided a practical overview of issues for beneficiaries of non-resident trusts and Australian trusts with foreign beneficiaries.
14 September 2020
Insights Media
“A product of and a shaper of this community” – AJN features The Powerbroker: Mark Leibler, an Australian Jewish Life
In addition to running two extracts from Michael Gawenda’s biography of senior partner Mark Leibler, a feature in this week’s AJN includes interviews with both Michael and Mark on the benefits and challenges of producing an unauthorised biography.
23 July 2020
Insights Media
AFR extract of The Powerbroker “explores the Jewish roots of one of Australia's most influential law firms”
An exclusive extract of Michael Gawenda’s biography of senior partner Mark Leibler published in today’s AFR explores the unique history of Arnold Bloch Leibler and its continued capacity to differentiate itself “in a very overcrowded, competitive and dynamic legal market”.
20 July 2020
Insights Media
“How Mark Leibler exercises his power and influence”: AFR Weekend
Ahead of the launch of Michael Gawenda’s biography, The Powerbroker, AFR Weekend profiled senior partner Mark Leibler, describing him as an “eminent lawyer with many friends in high places”.
18 July 2020
Insights Media
Weekend Australian extract of The Powerbroker: “His influence far exceeds his public profile”
An extract of Michael Gawenda’s biography of senior partner Mark Leibler in the Weekend Australian focuses on Mark’s impact across varied aspects of Australian life. Describing him as “one of Australia’s most influential tax lawyers”, Gawenda says that while Mark is not well known to most Australians, his influence far exceeds his public profile.
18 July 2020
Insights Media
AJN previews Mark Leibler biography: “A unique insight into a communal legend”
In his preview of The Powerbroker: Mark Leibler, An Australian Jewish Life, Sam Lipski describes Michael Gawenda’s biography of Arnold Bloch Leibler’s senior partner as “compellingly readable”.
16 July 2020
News Article
Launch of 'The Powerbroker: Mark Leibler, An Australian Jewish Life'
On Monday 20 July, 'The Powerbroker: Mark Leibler, An Australian Jewish Life' was launched online by former Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Aboriginal lawyer Noel Pearson.
13 July 2020
Insights Media
Changes to NSW property laws 'reinventing history'
In today’s AFR, Partner Joey Borensztajn explains that changes to stamp duty laws in NSW have widespread implications beyond their original intention of improving housing affordability for domestic buyers.
10 July 2020
Insights Article
Changes to the application of foreign surcharges for trusts acquiring or holding NSW residential property
The State Revenue Legislation Further Amendment Act 2020, which came into effect in New South Wales on 24 June 2020, includes changes to “foreign person surcharges” for purchaser duty and land tax relevant to residential land in NSW owned by discretionary trusts.
2 July 2020
News Announcement
2020 Deakin Law School Academic Excellence Awards
This year's Deakin Law School Academic Excellence Awards acknowledged high achieving Deakin Law School students in the 2019 academic year.
4 June 2020
News Deals & matters
ABL helps Zip Co accelerate global expansion plans with US deals
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised ASX listed Zip Co Limited on two transactions announced this week that will see the buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) giant expand into the US market.
3 June 2020
Insights Article
Another brick in the wall – the Greensill decision and Australia's international tax policy settings
As Tax Partner Clint Harding writes in the Weekly Tax Bulletin, a recent Federal Court decision regarding the taxation of non-taxable Australian property distributions made by the trustee of an Australian discretionary trust to a non-resident beneficiary provides welcome clarification around an issue that has been the cause of much friction between taxpayers and the Commissioner.
13 May 2020
Insights Media
Ronald, McDonald’s and the case of pre-paid rent
In an article published in today’s AFR, Tax Partner Jonathan Ortner explains how a ruling in the Federal Court last week could see McDonald’s restaurant franchisees facing bigger tax bills.
8 May 2020
Insights Article
Superannuation amnesty passed by parliament!
The Federal parliament has now passed legislation providing a once-off amnesty to employers who have failed to comply with their superannuation obligations.
28 February 2020
News Announcement
Peter Scott announced as ‘Emerging Tax Star’ finalist
Arnold Bloch Leibler Senior Associate, Peter Scott, has been announced by the Tax Institute of Australia as a finalist in the ‘Emerging Tax Star’ category in this year’s prestigious Tax Adviser of the Year Awards.
28 January 2020
Insights Article
ATO joins global coordinated fight against tax evasion, expected to implicate hundreds of Australians
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has commenced investigations into Australian individuals who are suspected of having undeclared income.
24 January 2020
Insights Article
Australia/Israel tax treaty enters into force
The Australia/Israel tax treaty has now entered into force and will become operational from 1 January 2020: good news, but where are your directors located?
6 December 2019
Insights Article
Expansion of the Tax Avoidance Taskforce for private groups and high wealth individuals
On 11 November 2019, the Australian Taxation Office announced that its Tax Avoidance Taskforce will now include three new programs that specifically address tax risks relating to private groups and high wealth individuals. All three programs are intended to involve ongoing and direct engagement with the ATO.
2 December 2019
Insights Media
Muddled tax residency rules “embarrassing”
Partner Clint Harding is quoted in today’s AFR in response to a Federal Court ruling on the controversial “backpacker tax”, commenting that the case further exemplifies a “complicated web of concepts covering tax residents, temporary residents and working holidaymakers”.
31 October 2019
Insights Events
ABL hosts ANZ chief Shayne Elliott in Sydney
Introducing the Chief Executive of ANZ Bank, Sydney Managing Partner Paul Rubenstein said it would be an understatement to say that in the not-quite four years since Shayne Elliott was appointed to the position, the challenge and scrutiny faced by Australian banks and the people who lead them has intensified.
24 October 2019
Insights Events
ABL provides Victorian stamp duty guidance at round table event
Partner Gia Cari and Special Counsel Zoe Chung hosted a boardroom lunch event in Arnold Bloch Leibler's Melbourne office on recent Victorian stamp duty changes.
18 October 2019
Insights Media
Paul Sokolowski features in ATO Commercial Deals video
Arnold Bloch Leibler Taxation Partner Paul Sokolowski features in a video about the Australian Taxation Office's Commercial Deals Early Engagement Program.
28 August 2019
Insights Article
ATO watching for foreign income – implementation of the new Common Reporting Standard
Information held in jurisdictions that were previously considered to be ‘secrecy jurisdictions’ or ‘tax havens’ is becoming increasingly accessible to the ATO.
22 August 2019
News Deals & matters
ABL advises Charter Hall on $1.43b property portfolio investment
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised Australian property investment and funds management company, Charter Hall, on the acquisition by a Charter Hall managed partnership of a 49% interest in a newly created property trust established by Telstra. It is intended that the unlisted trust will hold a $1.43b portfolio of 37 Telstra exchange properties located across Australia.
19 August 2019
Insights Article
Warning for recipients of foreign trust distributions!
9 August 2019
Insights Article
New partner Jonathan Ortner on market trends
We spoke with newly appointed Tax partner Jonathan Ortner about the top market trends that will affect his clients in the next year.
10 July 2019
News Announcement
2019 Partner, Special Counsel and Senior Associate announcement
The partners of Arnold Bloch Leibler are delighted to announce this year’s Partner, Special Counsel and Senior Associate appointments, effective July 2019.
28 June 2019
News Deals & matters
ABL advises Starwood Capital on $220m development facility
A multi-disciplinary team from Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised US investment firm, Starwood Capital on behalf of Starwood Property Trust, on its first Australian debt deal, a $220m development facility for a project by international student accommodation specialist, Scape.
26 June 2019
News Announcement
Joey Borensztajn receives Queen’s Birthday Honour
As part of the 2019 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, Arnold Bloch Leibler Partner Joey Borensztajn has been appointed as a Member in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AM).
11 June 2019
Insights Article
Property developers and investors: the Victorian Budget changes will impact you!
Changes introduced by the 2019-20 State Budget and the State Taxation Amendment Bill 2019 (“Bill”) could have significant stamp duty implications for property developers and investors. In our opinion, the most substantive changes are those to the economic entitlement and corporate reconstruction provisions.
6 June 2019
Insights Media
Jonathan Ortner: Small business a winner in 2019 federal budget
Arnold Bloch Leibler Senior Associate Jonathan Ortner recently provided his “post-budget” insights as part of the Tax Institute of Australia’s inaugural Federal Budget microsite.
16 April 2019
Insights Article
Australia and Israel sign a new tax treaty
On 28 March 2019, Australia and Israel signed a new tax treaty which, following its entry into force, will represent the first tax treaty between the two countries.
2 April 2019
Insights Article
Moving or living overseas? Recent case clarifies the scope of individual tax residency rules
The Full Federal Court recently overturned the controversial first instance decision in Harding v FCT, finding that a taxpayer who was living in a serviced apartment overseas was not a resident of Australia for tax purposes. Tax residency is important because, broadly, Australian residents are subject to Australian tax on their worldwide income whereas non-residents are only subject to Australian tax on Australian-sourced income.
25 March 2019
News Deals & matters
2020 Best Lawyers® International results
A total of 32 Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) lawyers across 24 areas of legal practice have been recognised in this year’s Best Lawyers® International list for Australia.
22 March 2019
News Announcement
Paul Sokolowski awarded 'Chartered Tax Adviser of the Year'
Arnold Bloch Leibler Partner Paul Sokolowski has been named the 'Chartered Tax Adviser of the Year' for 2019, the top award in the Tax Institute of Australia’s prestigious Tax Adviser of the Year Awards.
20 March 2019
Insights Article
Clint Harding on IP, goodwill, and protecting the recipe
Following the 26th Noosa Tax Intensive, hosted by the Tax Institute in November last year, Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) Partner Clint Harding’s paper ‘Protecting the recipe’ has been published on The Tax Institute Blog.
22 February 2019
News Announcement
2019 Tax Adviser of the Year Awards
Two members of the Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) taxation team have been named as finalists in the Tax Institute of Australia’s prestigious Tax Adviser of the Year Awards.
18 February 2019
News Announcement
The Legal 500 Asia Pacific results 2019
Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) has been ranked across a number categories in the 2019 edition of the independent Legal 500 Asia Pacific guide.
25 January 2019
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler recognised in the 2018 Doyle’s Guide
Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) has been listed across a number of practice areas in the 2018 Doyle’s Guide to the Australian legal profession.
12 December 2018
News Announcement
Arnold Bloch Leibler listed in Chambers Asia Pacific 2019
Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) has received 22 individual lawyer rankings in the Asia Pacific guide of 2019 international legal directory Chambers and Partners.
3 December 2018
Insights Media
Clint Harding features on Money News with Ross Greenwood
Arnold Bloch Leibler Tax Partner Clint Harding was interviewed by Ross Greenwood from Money News about tax residency rules on radio 2GB 873 in Sydney.
8 November 2018
Insights Events
ABL hosts farewell function for Inspector-General of Taxation
Almost 100 of the nation’s top tax advisers and regulators gathered last night at Arnold Bloch Leibler to farewell outgoing Inspector-General of Taxation Ali Noroozi.
5 October 2018
Insights Media
Profile on Clint Harding: 2018 Corporate Tax Adviser of the Year
Arnold Bloch Leibler tax partner Clint Harding is profiled in the latest Tax Institute journal following his recent ‘Corporate Tax Adviser of the Year’ award win.
24 August 2018
Insights Events
Arnold Bloch Leibler hosts workshop for Sri Lankan delegation
Arnold Bloch Leibler recently hosted and facilitated a two day workshop - organised by Deakin Law School’s Centre on the Legal Profession - for a visiting delegation of 12 senior officers from the Sri Lankan Attorney-General’s Department (pictured above with Partner, Paul Sokolowski and Senior Associate, Bridgid Cowling, and Athula Pathinayake and Prof. Sandeep Gopalan of Deakin Law School – standing second and third from right).
23 August 2018
Insights Media
Federal Court decision offers lessons for investors
In an article in the Australian Financial Review, Tax Partner Clint Harding explains the Federal Court decision that former Bechtel executive Andy Greig was not entitled to claim $11.85 million in share losses as deductions against his income.
8 August 2018
Insights Article
Mark Leibler: Without serious tax reform, Australia’s economic competitiveness will be undermined
At a luncheon today, hosted by the Australia Israel Chamber of Commerce, Senior Partner Mark Leibler introduced the guest speaker, Treasurer the Hon. Scott Morrison MP.
7 August 2018
Insights Article
ATO announces new penalty relief for inadvertent errors
In a positive move for taxpayers, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has advised that from 1 July 2018 they will not apply penalties to tax returns and activity statements where eligible taxpayers have made an ‘inadvertent error’ by failing to take reasonable care or not adopting a reasonably arguable position.
12 July 2018
Insights Media
ESICs and the problem with company group structures
In an article in the latest Thomson Reuters Weekly Tax Bulletin, Arnold Bloch Leibler Senior Associate, Jonathan Ortner, and Lawyer, Peter Scott, highlight a seemingly unintended deficiency in the early stage investment company (ESIC) rules, which results in holding companies being effectively excluded from qualifying as ESICs.
11 July 2018
Insights Media
Tougher tax rules to snare foreign execs
A report released yesterday by the Board of Taxation on tax residency rules for individuals proposes a new regime be developed to preserve the integrity of the tax system and to properly reflect an increasingly globalised economy.
10 July 2018
News Announcement
Paul Sokolowski takes out Tax Partner of the Year
Arnold Bloch Leibler Tax partner Paul Sokolowski has been named Taxation Partner of the Year in the prestigious 2018 Lawyers Weekly Partner of the Year awards.
20 June 2018
News Deals & matters
ABL advises Specialty Fashion Group on brand portfolio sale
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised ASX-listed Specialty Fashion Group Limited in relation to the strategic sale of its Millers, Katies, Crossroads, Autograph and Rivers portfolio of businesses to Noni B Limited. As part of the transaction, Specialty Fashion Group will retain ownership of its most profitable business, City Chic - the market leader in the plus-size women’s apparel market.
16 May 2018
Insights Article
Post Project DO IT – Offshore voluntary disclosures
On 2 May 2018, the Australian Financial Review reported that the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) had begun contacting 106 Australian private clients of Credit Suisse over $900 million in suspicious transactions linked to secret numbered accounts.
14 May 2018
Insights Media
Legal insights on the Federal Budget
Interviewed on this week’s Federal Budget, tax partner Clint Harding said he was concerned that the list of announced but unenacted tax and superannuation measures currently sitting before the Parliament was set to expand even further.
10 May 2018
Insights Article
GST withholding tax on sales of new residential premises and subdivisions only two months away!
From 1 July 2018 purchasers of new residential premises and lots in residential subdivisions will generally be required to make a payment of 1/11th of the purchase price directly to the ATO at settlement. Developers and purchasers need to be aware of new withholding and notification obligations.
28 April 2018
News Announcement
Christine Fleer and Paul Sokolowski finalists for Partner of the Year 2018
Lawyers Weekly has announced the finalists in the prestigious Partner of the Year Awards 2018 and ABL is represented in two categories.
26 April 2018
News Announcement
33 ABL lawyers listed in Best Lawyers 2019 guide
A total of 33 Arnold Bloch Leibler (ABL) lawyers across 23 areas of legal practice have been recognised in this year’s Best Lawyers® International list for Australia.
12 April 2018
Insights Media
Systemic failure or isolated mistakes by the ATO?
Senior Partner Mark Leibler has responded to media reports of “abuse” and “bullying” of small business by the ATO, suggesting that the Inspector-General of Taxation is in the unique position of being able to assess whether the cases presented in the media are “evidence of system failure or isolated, albeit serious, mistakes you would be hard pressed to avoid in any large organisation.”
11 April 2018
News Announcement
Further recognition for ABL’s renowned tax practice
Senior Associate Jonathan Ortner has made the finals in the tax category of this year’s Lawyers Weekly 30 Under 30 Awards.
28 March 2018
Insights Media
ATO powers: The Australian responds to Mark Leibler’s Tax Institute speech
In today’s Australian, business columnist Robert Gottliebsen responds to Arnold Bloch Leibler Senior Partner Mark Leibler’s address at last week’s Tax Institute National Convention.
23 March 2018
News Deals & matters
ABL advises Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised US-based Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation on its acquisition of the Krispy Kreme Australia and New Zealand franchise business from its founding shareholders.
21 March 2018
News Announcement
Clint Harding named Corporate Tax Adviser of the Year
In the Tax Institute’s prestigious Tax Adviser of the Year Awards, Arnold Bloch Leibler partner Clint Harding has been named the Corporate Tax Adviser of the Year for 2018.
20 March 2018
Insights Events
Perspectives on tax administration: Mark Leibler addresses the 2018 Tax Institute Convention
In a keynote address to the Tax Institute’s 33rd National Convention, Senior Partner Mark Leibler put a spotlight on the extraordinary powers of the Australian Tax Office and the Commissioner of Taxation.
14 March 2018
News Deals & matters
ABL acts for CrownBet founders in transformative transactions with Crown, Stars Group and William Hill
Arnold Bloch Leibler has acted for CrownBet’s founders, including Matt Tripp, Grant Griffiths and Nick Tyshing, on a series of milestone transactions, including the sale of an 18 per cent stake of CrownBet to Canadian listed company The Stars Group, Inc, executed Tuesday night.
9 March 2018
News Announcement
Two ABL finalists announced in 2018 ‘Tax Adviser of the Year’ Awards
The Tax Institute of Australia has announced the finalists in the prestigious 2018 Tax Adviser of the Year Awards and Arnold Bloch Leibler is represented in two categories.
15 February 2018
Insights Article
Women in Tax: ABL’s Kaitilin Lowdon profiled
Arnold Bloch Leibler Senior Associate Kaitilin Lowdon has been profiled on the new ‘Women in Tax’ website, launched by the Tax Institute of Australia.
6 February 2018
News Deals & matters
ABL advises on sale of global cybersecurity arm to KPMG
Arnold Bloch Leibler has advised Silicon Valley based Cyberinc on the Australian taxation and workplace aspects of the sale of its Identity and Access Management business to KPMG.
18 January 2018
News Deals & matters
ABL advises PIK Noteholders in Bis Industries restructure
Arnold Bloch Leibler has acted for one of the key stakeholder groups in the recently finalised recapitalisation of resource logistics provider Bis Industries. Representing the majority of the payment-in-kind (PIK) noteholders, ABL’s role included negotiating a debt for equity swap under which the PIK noteholders received equity in the newly recapitalised holding company of the BIS group in return for their debt.
12 January 2018