The Budget without the BS: What the 2026/27 Federal Budget Actually Means for Your Money

Last night's Federal Budget made a splash — but did it go far enough? In this episode, Mel gives you her unfiltered take on the 2026/27 Budget and walks you through exactly what's changing, who's affected, and what (if anything) you actually need to do about it.

No political spin. No media clickbait. Just plain-English answers from someone who's spent 25 years in accounting and financial education.

In this episode, Mel covers:

Her honest take on the Budget — and why she thinks Labor stumbled on the biggest reform opportunity

The Working Australians Tax Offset and the lifted $1,000 receipt-free deduction threshold

Negative gearing changes for established properties — who's affected, who isn't, and the critical timeline

The new build exemption and why Mel has thoughts

Capital Gains Tax explained through Maxine's story — a worked example showing how the 50% discount, indexation, and the new minimum 30% tax rule all fit together

What happens to pre-1985 assets (this one matters for older investors)

The crackdown on discretionary trusts and income splitting

Small business wins — including the permanent $20,000 instant asset write-off and loss carry-back rules

The NDIS overhaul and what it means for 160,000 Australians