Federal Budget introduces sweeping changes to tax, investment, and health care sectors

By Newsdesk

May 14 2026
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In the wake of the Federal Budget announcement last night, significant reforms are set to reshape the financial landscape for Australians, touching on everything from tax deductions to superannuation and health care. MLC has released a comprehensive analysis detailing these changes and their potential impacts on financial advisers and their clients.

Federal Budget introduces sweeping changes to tax, investment, and health care sectors

Tax and cost-of-living measures

Among the most notable proposals is the introduction of a $1,000 instant tax deduction for work-related expenses, alongside a $250 annual Working Australians Tax Offset. These measures aim to alleviate the financial burden on working Australians. Additionally, the lowest marginal tax rate is slated to decrease to 15% from 1 July 2026 and further to 14% from 1 July 2027, with corresponding increases in Medicare levy thresholds.

MLC's analysis suggests these tax changes could significantly impact after-tax income for many Australians. "The introduction of a standard deduction for work-related expenses simplifies the process for many taxpayers, while still allowing for higher claims where applicable," the analysis notes. However, it also warns that "substantiation may still be required where higher deductions are claimed."

Investment and property reforms

From 1 July 2027, the 50% Capital Gains Tax (CGT) discount will be replaced with Consumer Price Index (CPI) indexation, and a minimum 30% tax rate on capital gains will be introduced. Negative gearing will face restrictions for newly acquired established residential properties, with losses permitted to be carried forward.

These changes are expected to have profound effects on investment strategies. "The adjustments to CGT and negative gearing will alter how capital gains and investment property losses are treated over time," MLC's report states. Financial advisers may need to reassess investment outcomes and models as a result. "These changes may affect the way investment outcomes are assessed and modelled," the analysis highlights.

Implications for trusts and small businesses

A new 30% minimum tax on discretionary trusts will commence on 1 July 2028, with transitional relief available. Additionally, the instant asset write-off for eligible small businesses will be permanently set at $20,000.

These adjustments could prompt businesses and individuals to review their asset ownership structures. "Updates to discretionary trust taxation may prompt a review of existing structures and consideration of alternative strategies," MLC advises. This may particularly impact small businesses and individuals relying on these trusts for tax efficiency.

Superannuation and health care adjustments

The Low-Income Superannuation Tax Offset will see expansion from 1 July 2027, providing some relief to low-income earners. However, older Australians may face increased costs as higher private health insurance rebates are set to be removed from April 2027.

The health sector is also poised for significant reforms, with changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), aged care, and Support at Home services. These reforms are designed to expand services and adjust eligibility over time. "Changes to private health insurance rebates may affect premium costs for some older Australians," MLC's analysis warns, adding that "updates to aged care, disability support and government payments may affect eligibility, access and out-of-pocket costs across these services over time."

Advisers and clients brace for change

For financial advisers, these sweeping changes necessitate a thorough review of client portfolios and strategies. "The proposed changes may result in a review of asset ownership structures across super, trusts, companies, and individuals," MLC suggests. Advisers will need to guide clients through these transitions, ensuring that they remain compliant while optimising their financial outcomes.

Clients, on the other hand, will need to adapt to the new financial landscape. The standard deduction for work-related expenses and the Working Australians Tax Offset are expected to influence after-tax income. Meanwhile, changes to CGT and negative gearing will require a reassessment of investment property strategies.

As Australians digest these proposed changes, the financial sector is poised for a period of adaptation and realignment. With the potential for significant impacts on both advisers and clients, the coming years will be critical in navigating the evolving financial terrain.

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