Federal Budget key dates

Which budget dates matter most?

The dates that matter are budget night, any consultation closing dates, when legislation passes Parliament and when each measure takes effect, often 1 July. For Sydney, NSW and Australian investors, the start date decides whether a transaction falls under old or new rules. Always confirm dates in the budget papers and ATO updates.

Financial year boundaries

Many tax measures begin on 1 July. Contract dates, settlement dates and CGT event dates can fall on different sides of that line.

Consultation windows

Treasury often consults on draft legislation. Details can change during this period.

Grandfathering

Some measures protect arrangements made before a set date. Check the exact wording rather than headlines.

Frequently asked questions

Is the CGT event date the settlement date?

For property sales it is generally the contract date.

What if legislation is delayed?

The start date may move; follow ATO guidance.

Do states follow the same dates?

No. State budgets and duty changes have their own timelines.

Continue your research

• Budget action plan
• Federal Budget hub
• Capital gains tax

Sources & References

• budget.gov.au: Federal Budget papers
• ato.gov.au: capital gains tax
• aph.gov.au: bills before Parliament