At Harris Black, feedback is more than just a performance tool; it’s a catalyst for growth, collaboration, and continuous improvement. That’s why we introduced Speedback at our recent Annual Staff Day. Speedback is a dynamic and engaging activity designed to make feedback more accessible, timely, and impactful. Inspired by the format of speed-dating, Speedback pairs team members for short, focused conversations where they ask two simple but powerful questions: “What do you think I do well?” and “What do you think I could do better?” With partners rotating every few minutes, the energy stays high and the insights flow freely.

The goal of Speedback is to break down the barriers that often make feedback feel awkward or intimidating. By creating a structured yet informal setting, participants are encouraged to be open, honest, and constructive. The activity is grounded in the TASK model (Timely, Actionable, Specific, and Kind) which helps ensure that feedback is not only useful but also delivered in a way that fosters trust and respect. Whether it’s celebrating strengths or identifying areas for growth, Speedback helps team members see themselves through the eyes of their colleagues and take meaningful steps forward.

Speedback is more than just a fun exercise: it’s a reflection of Harris Black’s commitment to building a feedback-rich and growth mindset culture. As we continue to evolve and support each other in achieving our best, initiatives like Speedback remind us that growth happens through conversation, connection, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Understanding the 20% HECS-HELP Debt Reduction

As part of its re-election promise, the Government committed to reducing all outstanding HECS-HELP debts by 20%. The legislation passed through the Senate today, 31^st July 2025. Once it has received Royal Assent, the discount will apply retrospectively to any student loan balances as of June 1, 2025. While many Australians have noticed an increase in their student loan balances due to the annual indexation of 3.2%, the government has clarified that the 20% reduction will be calculated based on the pre-indexation amount.

How the Reduction Will Be Applied

Once legislated, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will automatically adjust eligible student loan accounts. The indexation will be recalculated based on the reduced debt amount, ensuring that borrowers benefit from both the discount and a lower indexed balance. This change is part of a broader effort to make student loan repayments more manageable, following last year’s reform that linked indexation to the lower of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or Wage Price Index (WPI), rather than CPI alone.

Tax Season

For those preparing their tax returns, it’s important to note that the discount has not yet taken effect. There’s no need to delay filing your return, as the ATO will apply the discount automatically. However, borrowers who paid off their loans after June 1 may be eligible for a refund equivalent to the 20% discount (provided they don’t owe additional tax). The cut will take a few months for the Australian Tax Office to implement.

Other Updates

The legislation also includes reforms to the repayment system, ensuring compulsory repayments are marginal. The threshold at which students are required to start paying back their loans will be lifted from $54,435 (2024-25 minimum) to $67,000 from 1 July 2025.

Contact your Harris Black team member for any questions regarding this new legislation.

14 August 2025

• Lodge PAYG withholding payment summary annual report for:
  • Large withholders whose annual withholding is greater than $1 million
  • payers who have no tax agent or BAS agent involved in preparing the report.

21 August 2025

• Lodge and pay July 2025 monthly business activity statement.

25 August 2025

• Lodge and pay quarter 4, 2024–25 activity statement if you lodge electronically.

If you’re planning to travel or live overseas for an extended period, it’s essential to understand your obligations to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

Whether you’re going for work, study, or a lifestyle change, the ATO requires certain individuals to submit an overseas travel notification—and failing to do so could lead to penalties or complications with your tax and loan obligations.

Who Needs to Submit an Overseas Travel Notification?

Individuals who have a Higher Education Loan (HELP), VET Student Loan (VSL) or Australian Apprenticeship Support Loan (AASL) will need to lodge an overseas travel notification if any of the following apply:

• You intend to remain outside Australia for 183 days or more in any 12-month period
• You have already been outside Australia for 183 days or more, even if that wasn’t your original intention

Even if you become a foreign resident for tax purposes, you still have obligations to repay these loans.

What You Need to Do Before and After Departure

Before leaving Australia:

• Ensure your contact information is correct with the ATO
• Lodge an overseas travel notification with the ATO via myGov or with a tax agent

While overseas:

• If you remain an Australian resident for tax purposes, you will need to continue to lodge your Australian tax return which will include your worldwide income
• If you become a non-resident of Australia for tax purposes, you will need to lodge a worldwide income report each year via myGov or with a tax agent

Final Tips

• Tax residency can potentially impact the amount of taxable income to be reported and the required repayments on your loan. If you are unsure of your tax residency status, consider discussing with your tax agent.
• Ensure that you stay on top of your reporting obligations while away either through myGov or with your Australian tax agent

Need help determining your tax residency or managing your obligations while abroad? Contact your Harris Black team member for personalised advice before you go.