The Budget without the BS: What the 2026/27 Federal Budget Actually Means for Your Money

Last night's Federal Budget made a splash — but did it go far enough? In this episode, Mel gives you her unfiltered take on the 2026/27 Budget and walks you through exactly what's changing, who's affected, and what (if anything) you actually need to do about it. 

No political spin. No media clickbait. Just plain-English answers from someone who's spent 25 years in accounting and financial education. 

In this episode, Mel covers: 

• Her honest take on the Budget — and why she thinks Labor stumbled on the biggest reform opportunity 

• The Working Australians Tax Offset and the lifted $1,000 receipt-free deduction threshold 

• Negative gearing changes for established properties — who's affected, who isn't, and the critical timeline 

• The new build exemption and why Mel has thoughts 

• Capital Gains Tax explained through Maxine's story — a worked example showing how the 50% discount, indexation, and the new minimum 30% tax rule all fit together 

• What happens to pre-1985 assets (this one matters for older investors) 

• The crackdown on discretionary trusts and income splitting 

• Small business wins — including the permanent $20,000 instant asset write-off and loss carry-back rules 

• The NDIS overhaul and what it means for 160,000 Australians 

• Support changes for young people at risk of homelessness 

• Mel's action list — five things to actually do with this information 

This podcast contains general information only and does not take into account your personal circumstances, objectives or needs. Please speak to a licensed financial adviser, accountant, or tax professional before making any financial decisions based on the content of this episode. 

For more tips and resources, visit us at melissabrowne.com.au, on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok @MelBrowne.Money or send us an email at hello@melissabrowne.com.au. 

Finally, if you love this episode please make sure you subscribe, share it with a friend and leave us a review.