What the trust tax changes mean for your inheritance

May 24, 2026 — 5:00am

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It’s been a big couple of weeks for money fans as discussion about the federal budget continues to bubble along. As Money writer Paul Benson pointed out this week, for the vast majority of us, these changes will mean very little − you can still save into super and your main residence is still exempt from CGT.

But those who are affected are kicking up a stink, if “kicking up a stink” means posting low-effort AI-generated memes and complaining they might have to pay a bit extra in tax.

If you’re not a business owner, this likely won’t concern you. But there is one section of the budget changes that could affect a decent number of people, and that’s when it comes to inheritance.

Property or shares? The budget just flipped the script

Dominic PowellMoney Editor

Often, people will structure their inheritance through trusts – commonly testamentary or discretionary trusts – to dictate how and when their money can be spent, or certain assets accessed.

As I discussed last month, these trusts are becoming more popular as older Australians with wealth look for ways it can be distributed in accordance to their wishes.

However, Labor’s recently announced tax changes are set to impose a 30 per cent minimum tax on trusts from July 1, 2028,........

© Brisbane Times