fbpx

Starting or Buying a Business

Our Services: For Businesses

Are you thinking of buying or starting a business? Nexis can help.

Starting and structuring a new business

If you’re thinking of starting a business, we can help you understand the benefits and challenges of different types of business structures. We provide professional advice on the tax implications of each, and what structure will suit your needs now into the future. Choosing what structure to use as a new business looks very different to the company structures of already established businesses.

Typical business structure types in Australia

Sole trader:
An individual operating as the sole person who is legally responsible for all aspects of the business.

Partnership:
An association of people or entities running a business together but not as a company.

Company:
A legal entity that is separate from its shareholders.

Trust:
An entity that holds property or income for the benefit of others. Please note, there are many types of trusts with varying features.

We can provide you with advice on the legal structure of a business. We draw on our extensive experience assisting our clients to set up various tax effective business structures over the years.

Changing your business structure

It is important as a new business to revise your business structure as your needs change and your business grows. Our team of experts can assist you with the transition and give you the information you need to fulfil your legal responsibilities.

As your business grows, you may decide to move to a different business structure. We can also advise and assist with restructuring options and make you aware of any obligations for your new business structure.

Watch the Choosing your business structure video produced by the Australian Taxation Office for more information.

To discuss starting a small business, or changing your business structure, please get in touch with our team of experts to make an appointment.

Buying an Existing Business

If you are considering buying an existing business, it’s important to do a comprehensive review of the business’ accounts, operations and systems, reputation, the industry and its competitors. This is commonly referred to as the due diligence process. Doing your research to ensure you’re making the right decision is crucial. The Nexis business advisory team can assist you in interpreting the business’ records and evaluating its financial health and potential.

Due Diligence

It’s important to gather as much information on the business you’re interested in before signing the contract to help identify and mitigate risks associated with the business.

Valuations

Getting the business’ current value plays a large part in determining the current financial state and potential growth of a business.

Financial Due Diligence

It’s extremely important to collect and check the financial information of the business for the past three to five years, including:

  • Tax returns
  • Business activity statements (BAS)
  • Records of accounts receivable and payable
  • Balance sheets
  • Profit and loss records
  • Cash flow statements
  • Sales records
  • List of assets being acquired
  • The transfer of intellectual property rights
  • Employee data and obligations

Forecasting

Forecasting helps to identify sales and seasonal patterns, which can determine when the best time to buy is and provides insights into the cash flows that can be expected of the business once acquired.

Risk Management

Understanding who your consumer base is and where your main revenue stream lies is important in minimising the risk associated with purchasing the business.

Prepayments

Find out if any prepayments have been made to the business that should be turned over so you aren’t forced to do work without compensation.

Nexis can assist you in collecting and interpreting this information to evaluate the business and make an informed decision.

Business Advisors in Canberra and Brisbane

If you are starting a new business, or buying an existing business in Canberra or Brisbane, utilise Nexis’s business advisory services to make the most informed decision possible and minimise risk.

Book an appointment with our team today.

Get in touch with Nexis

Talk to our friendly team today about all your tax needs.

Get in touch with Nexis

Talk to our friendly team today about all your tax needs.

Our News For Business

2023 Federal Budget Snapshot for Businesses

2023 Federal Budget Snapshot for Businesses

The 2023 Federal Budget was announced on Tuesday 9 May 2023, with a focus on cost of living relief and modernising our economy. Only a few tax and superannuation changes were announced. However, no mention was made of the previously announced Stage 3 Income Tax cuts...

read more