BDO Connect National Forum 2026

Jeff Marsden
Partner Business Restructuring, BDO

Dr Mark Pizzacalla
Partner Business Services and National Leader BDO Connect, BDO

Trusts have been Australia's preferred wealth and business structuring vehicle for decades. The rules are changing. Understanding the new landscape is critical for trustees, family groups and advisers alike. We'll explain the quickly evolving tax landscape and walk through some practical examples to get you thinking about issues in practice, and planning opportunities.

Claire Baker
Partner Corporate & International Tax, BDO

By the time many businesses seek help, their options have already narrowed. This session looks at the warning signs advisers should be watching for, the conversations clients often avoid, and the difference early intervention can make. Through real examples, we'll discuss how timely action can help preserve value, improve outcomes and avoid more difficult decisions later.

Jeff Marsden
Partner Business Restructuring, BDO

TGST and state tax issues are often identified long after the original transaction took place. This session will highlight common risk areas, recent developments and the warning signs that are easy to miss. Learn where issues typically arise and what advisers can do to identify potential problems earlier.

Joel Brown
Partner Indirect Tax, BDO

From contribution strategies and pension issues through to compliance and retirement planning, the SMSF landscape continues to evolve, creating new complexities for advisers. This session will examine the areas generating the most questions in practice, highlight common risks and provide practical guidance to help support better client outcomes.

Vivi Chen
Partner Business Services, BDO

What do current economic conditions mean for Australian businesses? This session will explore the trends shaping business confidence, lending activity and access to capital, alongside the opportunities and risks likely to influence business growth in the year ahead. Gain practical insights into navigating changing market conditions and positioning for growth.

Yun Tin
Director Corporate and Business IRRM and FX Sales IRRM Product and Structuring, Wholesale Banking & Financial Markets, Bank of Queensland

Martin Jaffe
Relationship Executive, BOQ Specialist

Camille Morrison
Relationship Executive, BOQ Specialist

The strongest firms don't wait until retirement is around the corner to think about succession and value. Drawing on real examples from the SME market, this session will discuss the factors that drive firm value, common succession challenges and the steps advisers can take today to improve future flexibility and options.

Paul Childers
Partner, Deal Advisory, BDO

The Early Stage Innovation Company (ESIC) regime offers significant tax incentives for eligible investors, yet many businesses and advisers remain unfamiliar with the rules. This session will explain how the concessions work, who may be eligible and the questions advisers should be asking to help clients identify potential opportunities. We will also explore the proposed Innovative Business CGT Concession rules where the eligibility criteria are similar to ESIC.

Pulin Desai
Partner Corporate & International Tax, BDO