Stepping into 2026: Expert Financial Strategies for Brisbane Businesses and Hospitality Venues
Strategic financial planning helps Brisbane businesses and hospitality venues prepare for 2026.
As 2025 draws to a close, the Australian business landscape continues to evolve. From shifting economic trends to new digital requirements, preparing for the year ahead is no longer just about "closing the books"—it’s about setting a strategic foundation for growth.
At Evisory, our team of Bookkeeping Services Brisbane experts and dedicated Hospitality Bookkeeping and Accounting Specialists have seen firsthand what separates thriving businesses from those just getting by.
Here is our expert guide to ensuring your business starts 2026 on the front foot.
1. Conduct a "Year in Review" Financial Audit
Reviewing profit and loss statements gives Brisbane business owners clarity before the new financial year.
Before you toast to the New Year, you need a crystal-clear picture of where you stand.
Deep Dive: Analyse your 2025 Profit & Loss statements and Balance Sheets. Where did you exceed expectations, and where did the "leaks" occur?
Hospitality Focus: For cafe and restaurant owners, review your Prime Costs (COGS + Labour). With fluctuating supply costs in 2025, ensuring your margins are protected is vital for 2026.
The Evisory Advantage: Our specialists help you interpret the data, turning complex numbers into a roadmap for improvement.
2. Leverage AI and Advanced Automation
AI-driven bookkeeping automation improves efficiency and cash flow visibility for Brisbane businesses.
If 2025 was the year of AI exploration, 2026 will be the year of AI integration.
Beyond Data Entry: Move past basic cloud accounting. Implement automated accounts payable (like Dext or Hubdoc) and AI-driven cash flow forecasting.
Efficiency: Automating repetitive tasks reduces human error and frees your team to focus on customer experience.
Hospitality Tech: Our hospitality specialists can help integrate your POS system directly with your accounting software for seamless, daily financial visibility.
3. Navigate 2026 Compliance with Ease
Staying compliant with ATO, STP, and Fair Work requirements in 2026.
Staying ahead of the ATO is non-negotiable. As we move into 2026, keep a close eye on:
Superannuation Changes: Ensure you are prepared for the scheduled increases in the Super Guarantee rate.
Single Touch Payroll (STP): Ensure your finalisation declarations are accurate to avoid New Year headaches.
Industry Awards: For hospitality, staying compliant with Fair Work and evolving award rates is critical to avoiding heavy penalties.
4. Build a "Living" Budget for 2026
Dynamic budgeting helps Brisbane businesses manage cash flow and economic uncertainty.
A static budget is a relic of the past. In today’s economy, you need a dynamic financial plan.
Scenario Planning: Create "best case" and "conservative" forecasts to prepare for market volatility.
Cash Reserves: Aim to build a buffer that covers 3–6 months of operating expenses.
Expert Guidance: We work with you to set realistic KPIs that motivate your team and drive 2026 profitability.
5. Prioritise Sustainable Growth & Talent
Strong payroll systems and skilled teams support sustainable hospitality growth in Brisbane.
Your people are your most valuable asset, especially in the competitive Brisbane service market.
Payroll Excellence: Nothing kills morale faster than payroll errors. Ensure your systems are robust, transparent, and timely.
Upskilling: Invest in training for your management team to better understand the "financials" of their departments.
Outsource to Scale: Don’t let administrative burdens stall your growth. Outsource your bookkeeping and payroll to Evisory so you can focus on the big picture.
Start 2026 with Confidence
The transition from 2025 to 2026 is the perfect opportunity to reset, refocus, and recharge. With Evisory’s expert bookkeeping and hospitality accounting support, you don't have to navigate the financial complexities alone.
Ready to make 2026 your most profitable year yet?
Get started now! Call Evisory on (07) 3326 2303 or visit our website to book your end-of-year consultation. Let’s set your business up for lasting success.