December E News 2025

As we wrap up 2025, we reflect on a year of shifting global markets and celebrate the remarkable 30-year legacy of Helen Hutley as she begins her retirement. Looking ahead, we invite you to join our advanced Xero webinar on 23 January to kickstart your new year efficiency. We wish you a safe and joyful festive season enjoying the local Northern Rivers community events. Please note our office is now closed for the holidays, and we look forward to welcoming you back on Monday, 5 January 2026.

The global markets have navigated a complex but improving landscape, shaped largely by shifting interest rate expectations and the transformative rise of AI. While global rate hikes have slowed, the Reserve Bank of Australia maintains a steady stance to manage inflation, with the market signalling a cautious outlook for 2026. Despite periods of volatility, equity returns remained resilient—bolstered by strong corporate earnings and growth in US tech—though this concentration reinforces the need for disciplined diversification. Ultimately, ongoing geopolitical risks and recent market caution highlight the importance of maintaining a steadfast, long-term investment strategy as we move into the new year.

We celebrate a significant milestone for a key member of our team. After more than 30 years of incredible service at WD Nicholls, Helen Hutley has decided to retire. Helen’s deep knowledge and dedication, paired with her kind and caring nature, have made her a cornerstone of our culture and a friend to many. While she will be greatly missed by colleagues and clients alike, we are thrilled for her as she begins this next chapter. We wish Helen a wonderful, well-deserved retirement filled with everything she has looked forward to.

A Christmas or end-of-year celebration, even off-site, is legally a workplace function, meaning standard WHS obligations apply, making you responsible for employee safety and conduct. To ensure compliance, you must review policies (WHS, social media, harassment) and remind employees that workplace rules apply, stating the official finish time. Finally, manage risks by limiting alcohol, checking the venue, organising safe transport, and nominating a manager to oversee the event.

Join a FREE webinar on Friday, 23 January 2026 (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM AEDT) to master Xero’s advanced features. Presented by Digital Solutions, this online session is designed for small business owners looking to move beyond the basics and streamline their financial management. You’ll learn how to leverage automation, bank rules, and custom reporting dashboards to gain real-time visibility into your business. We will also explore how to reduce admin time by integrating Xero with essential tools like Hubdoc, Dext, Square, and Stripe. Don't miss this opportunity to improve your day-to-day efficiency and take full control of your business ecosystem. Register below.

The Northern Rivers holds regular Community Events.  See what's on and keep up to date on all the fantastic opportunities available over the Christmas and New Year and help to support local.  There is plenty to do. 

A reminder, there are some important lodgement dates to note this month and our office closure from today, Friday 19 December and reopening on Monday, 5 January 2026.

The WD Nicholls Team

As we close out the year, markets have navigated a complex but improving economic landscape. Some of the key themes that shaped investment markets over the year include:

• Interest rates remained elevated, but the pace of increases slowed significantly, with markets increasingly focused on when rate cuts may eventually occur rather than how high rates would go

• In Australia, the Reserve Bank held interest rates ensuring inflation does not spiral out of control. During the month the market is not expecting much relief for 2026 with some commentators indicating a potential of a rate rise.

• Equity markets experienced periods of volatility, however returns were supported by stronger-than-expected corporate earnings and continued growth in technology-related sectors, particularly those linked to artificial intelligence and productivity gains

• AI-related stocks in the US delivered strong returns as companies increased investment in data centres, cloud computing and automation. While enthusiasm around AI has been a major driver of returns, it has also led to more concentrated markets, reinforcing the importance of diversification and disciplined portfolio construction

• Ongoing geopolitical risks and global political uncertainty reinforced the importance of diversification and maintaining a long-term investment strategy

You will note the last few months have been a little more cautious. Here are the returns:

As the year draws to a close, we would like to thank you for your continued confidence and trust. We wish everyone a very Merry Christmas, a safe and enjoyable festive season, and all the very best for the New Year.

Look forward to speaking soon.

Tony

Helen Hutley’s retirement

Helen has been a part of the WD Nicholls team for over 30 years and has now decided to make the move into retirement.

Helen has been a wonderful member of the team who has greatly contributed to the outstanding culture that endures in the business.

Her knowledge and dedication together with her kind and caring nature has helped many team members and clients alike.

She is now taking a well deserved rest and moving into the next phase of her life.

While she’ll be greatly missed by all who have crossed her path, we hope that retirement is all that she hopes for.

Did you know that a work party is considered part of the 'workplace' when it comes to workplace health and safety (WHS)? 

Even if held at an external location like a restaurant, club, or the local pub, a Christmas or end of year party is a workplace function. This means that workplace obligations apply.

As a business owner, you are responsible for the safety of your employees at the party location.

Here are 7 tips to help you and your employees celebrate safely.

1. Review your workplace policies

Before the event make sure your internal policies and procedures are up to date. 

Consider your policies for topics like:

• workplace health and safety

• appropriate use of social media

• acceptable behaviour and bullying and harassment in the workplace.

2. Remind employees of their responsibilities 

Make sure your employees know the expectations. Send an email reminding them:

• the start and finish times of your party and that any activities after this time are not an extension of the party

• while the party is a time to relax, it's still a work function. The usual rules still apply, including those around harassment, discrimination and bullying

• your social media policies apply at the party. Encourage people to get permission from their colleagues before posting photos or videos on social media.

3. Limit the amount of alcohol

While an open bar may be a nice way to reward your employees, if you serve alcohol, make sure it's legal and responsible. There should also be enough food and non-alcoholic drinks available.

4. Check the venue before the party

Visit the venue beforehand, or arrive a bit earlier, so you can address any hazards before the party starts. For example, make sure electrical cords are out of the way to avoid a trip hazard.

5. Think about transport for your employees

Plan a party location that is close to your workplace or close to public transport.

You can also make arrangements for staff to get home afterwards, by organising a bus, pre-ordering taxis/Ubers or arranging designated drivers.

If you're visiting a remote location, consider providing a bus for your employees.

6. Nominate someone to manage the party

Have someone to keep an eye on the proceedings. It can help to ensure the party doesn't get out of hand and that any complaints are resolved quickly.

7. Have gift guidelines

It's fun to run party games like Secret Santa with your employees. However, it's good to be mindful that's what's funny to one person can be offensive to another.

Keep your gifts appropriate by providing some guidelines and asking employees to be respectful and mindful of bullying, discrimination and harassment policies.

Source and credit: Business.gov.au

FREE WEBINAR Friday 23 January 2026, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (AEDT)

Where

Online.

When

Friday, 23 January 2026, 1.00 pm - 2.00 pm (AEDT).

The Presenter

Digital Solutions

About this event

This webinar will guide small business owners through Xero’s advanced features to help streamline financial management and improve day-to-day efficiency. Building on the fundamentals covered in the “Intro to Xero” session, this workshop explores automation tools, tracking categories, custom dashboards, and integrations that provide real-time financial visibility. Attendees will also learn how to reduce admin time by using Xero with digital receipt capture tools and payment gateways.

What you will gain

• Use Xero’s automation features, bank rules, and tracking categories to improve accuracy and save time.

• Create and customise reporting dashboards for clear, real-time financial insights.

• Integrate Xero with tools like Hubdoc, Dext, Square, and Stripe to streamline processes.

• Apply practical tips to reduce admin workload using Xero’s ecosystem.

To register your interest click the link below.

Source and credit: Business.gov.au

We always like to support our locals!  Here are some community events happening this month (in date order).

Bangalow Farmers Market dates on Saturday's, 20 and 27 December | 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Discover the Heart of Local Food at Bangalow Farmers Market Every Saturday morning from 7:00 am - 11:00 am, the Bangalow Hotel carpark transforms into a vibrant hub of local food. Our farmers offer a bountiful harvest of fresh produce, artisan goods, and more. Meet the farmers, learn about sustainable practices, and support your local community. Visit Bangalow Farmers Market and experience the true essence of local food.

Location: Piccabeen Park, Cnr Deacon and Ashton Streets, Bangalow

Mullumbimby Community Market date is Saturday, 20 December | 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

The Mullumbimby Community Market is held on the third Saturday of each month from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.

The market is a vibrant family-friendly festival held in Summers Park. Discover unique treasures among the diverse stalls offering artisan clothing, jewellery, homewares, plants, and more, all while enjoying live music and delicious food. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and support for the local historical society museum, the Mullumbimby Community Market is a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors.

Location: 150 Stuart Street, Mullumbimby

Federal Community Market date is Sunday, 21 December | 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

The Federal Community Market is held on the third Sunday of each month from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.

The market has been able to restart following the completion of Federal Drive, that has been closed for over two years following the devastating 2022 floods. It has over 30 stalls, local vendors and a coffee cart.

This is a beloved community where the Federal Market has long been a cherished event with a vibrant atmosphere, offering the community a chance to come together, enjoying the music from our locally-based musicians.

Location: Federal Halls, 466 Federal Drive, Federal

New Brighton Farmers Market date is Tuesday, 23 December | 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM

New Brighton Farmers Market was established by the North Byron Farmers Market Association in 2007.

The aim was to create a local food economy; to give the local community access to farm fresh produce and to support local farmers and producers. The Association also wanted to create a meeting place in which to grow and strengthen community.

New Brighton Farmers Market has received overwhelming support from day one, with loyal customers returning consistently week after week. The market now hosts approximately 30 farmer and producer stalls each Tuesday.

The market is held from 8:00 am to 11:00 am every Tuesday.

Location: Tom Kendall Oval, Park Street, New Brighton

Byron Bay Farmers Market next date is Thursday, 25 December | 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM

The Byron Bay Farmers Market was started in 2002 by a handful of local farmers who wanted to be able to sell their produce directly to the public, in the process reducing food miles and ensuring their small farms remained viable

Over the past 20 years, Byron Farmers Market has grown from half a dozen stalls to over 70 stalls – all offering the freshest locally grown produce every Thursday morning at Butler Street Reserve in Byron Bay.

Farmers supply everything from seasonal fruit and vegetables, pasture-raised meat and eggs, artisan cheese and bread, seafood, pasta, rice, nuts, honey, flowers and more!

The market is held from 7:00 am to 11:00 am every Thursday.

Location:  Butler Street Reserve, Butler Street, Byron Bay

Mullumbimby Farmers Market dates on Friday's 26 December and 2 January | 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM

The Mullumbimby Farmers Market is held every Friday morning from 7:00 am to 11:00 am.

Established in 1989, the Mullumbimby market is more than just a place to shop. It's a vibrant community gathering with live music, delicious food, and a diverse range of local stalls. From artisan goods to eco-products, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and unique finds at this market.

Location: The Mullum Showgrounds, Main Arm Road, Mullumbimby

Soul Street New Year's Eve is back for 2025, Wednesday 31 December 2025 from 4.00 pm

This is a free, family-friendly, community New Year's Eve event in central Byron Bay.

There will be two main areas of entertainment in town:

• Jonson Street - live music on the sound stage, street dining and roving performers and children's activities from 4pm to 9pm.

• Dening Park - lighting installations; silent disco; circus workshops and entertainment on the main stage 6pm to 12.30am.

Soul Street is a zero-waste event. BYO cups, plates, cutlery etc.

The Byron Bay town centre is an alcohol-free zone. No alcohol will be allowed on the streets. On-the-spot fines apply.

Traffic and parking changes

Jonson Street will be closed to traffic, as well as some surrounding streets and carparks.

Roads will be closed from 6am on 31 December. This includes:

• Main Beach Carpark

• Jonson Street between Byron Street and Lawson Street

• Lawson Street Carpark North and South

Detours will be in place and the town bypass will be open. All roads will reopen by 8am 1 January 2026.

Parking and Taxis

• Taxi Rank - Jonson Street near Marvell Street intersection.

• Pay Parking - in Byron Bay town centre from 9am to 6pm.

Location: Jonson Street and Dening Park, Dening Park, Byron Bay

Brunswick Heads Community Market date is Saturday, 3 January | 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

The Brunswick Community Market is held on the first Saturday of each month from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Located on the riverbank, this market features a variety of stalls with local and imported goods, including handmade products, fresh produce, plants, food, and clothing.

Visitors can find artisanal goods, grab a coffee or hot food, and enjoy the riverside location. 

Location: Memorial Park, 11 Fawcett Street, Brunswick Heads

Byron Bay Community Market date is Sunday, 4 January | 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

The Byron Bay Community market is held from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm on the 1st Sunday of every month.

The market hosts an eclectic collection of stalls that showcase what Byron has to offer.

From Sunday 6 July the market will be temporarily relocated to the Main Beach Foreshore, while drainage work is carried out.

Location: Main Beach Foreshore, Bay Street, Byron Bay

Source and credit: Byron.nsw.gov.au/Recreation-Culture/Events-Venues/Whats-On

Our office will be closed for Christmas from;

5.00 pm Friday 19th December 2025 

and

reopening 8.30 am Monday 5th January 2026 (AEDT)

Key lodgment and payment dates for business

21 December

Activity statements

• November monthly activity statements – final date for lodgment and payment.

15 January

TFN report

Quarter 2 (October–December) TFN report for closely held trusts for TFNs quoted to a trustee by beneficiaries – final date for lodgment.

Income tax

Due date for lodgment of income tax returns for companies and trusts that were taxable medium to large taxpayers in the prior year and are not required to lodge earlier.  

• If you fail to lodge your current return on time your income tax return for the next financial year will be due by 31 October.

21 January

Activity statements

• December monthly activity statements – final date for lodgment and payment.

• Quarter 2 (October–December) PAYG instalment activity statement for head companies of consolidated groups – final date for lodgment and payment.

28 January

Superannuation

Due date for super guarantee (SG) contributions, for quarter 2, (October–December).

• Quarter 2 SG contributions are to be received by the superfund by this date – you need to allow sufficient time for SG payments to reach and be processed by your superfund, especially if using a SG clearing house.

• If you don't pay the SG contributions for quarter 2 in full and by this date, you must pay the super guarantee charge (SGC) and lodge a SGC statement with us by 28 February.

It's important to note, SGC is more than the SG you would have normally paid and is not tax deductible.

Source and credit: ATO.gov.au