The election of the Liberal Government has given rise to some exposure draft legislation that will be put before the parliament very shortly. Some of these bills may give rise to taxation implications for some of you if the legislation is passed.

What motivates us to work? Contrary to conventional wisdom, it isn’t just money. But it’s not exactly joy either. It seems that most of us thrive by making constant progress and feeling a sense of purpose.

Dan Ariely, behavioural economist, presents two eye-opening experiments that reveal our unexpected and nuanced attitudes toward meaning in our work.

It’s become increasingly obvious that the dismal science of economics is not as firmly grounded in actual behaviour as was once supposed. In “Predictably Irrational”, Dan Ariely tells us why.

Has 2013 been a better year than last year for you so far? On a nationwide scale, recent surveys have shown the first few months of this year have been an improvement on 2012, with consumers and investors a little more confident about the strength of the Australian economy although some uncertainty does remain.

For small businesses, keeping an eye on the core business, maintaining a healthy cash position, reducing operating expenses, increasing efficiency and strengthening existing supplier and customer relationships will all go a fair way to help ensure your business weathers today’s tough economic climate.

The Tax Office has been interested in rental property owners for some years now. It is recognised that there are a significant number of investors, and the Tax Office see this as an area that taxpayers are understanding rental income and over claiming deductions. In particular, the Tax Office is aware that many of these investors are new to the market, and their experience is seen to be an area of risk.

This month’s Client in Focus is Allure Hair and Body.

We speak to owner, Renee Marshall on the success of her business and the challenges she has faced and overcome.

What can economists learn from linguists? Behavioural economist Keith Chen introduces a fascinating pattern from his research – that languages without a concept for the future correlate strongly with high savings rates i.e. “It rain tomorrow” instead of “It will rain tomorrow”.

Keith Chen’s new research suggests that the language you speak may impact the way you think about your future.

Total and permanent disability (TPD) insurance can help pay for care and medical expenses in the event of a sudden serious illness or accident.

A childhood passion for “all things nice” had turned into a successful business for Bianca Kristallis, founder of Pamper Hamper, an online luxury gift hamper service that delivers nationally. Pamper Hamper delivers gifts in its signature white box with distinctive black and white ribbon trim. And it’s borne from Kristallis’s obsession with wrapping.

Australia’s mail national welfare group is urging federal Labor to cut nearly $6 billion from the budget by clamping down on superannuation tax breaks, health insurance rebates and the tax treatment of trusts and capital gains.