What last year’s numbers can tell you about next year’s success

The end of the financial year (EOFY) is more than just a compliance checkpoint. It’s a valuable opportunity to assess business performance, review financial decisions, and establish a clear plan for the year ahead.

At Hall Browns, we work closely with clients across Brisbane and beyond to help them move beyond EOFY as a once-a-year obligation. Instead, we view it as a strategic milestone – one that can guide future growth, strengthen operations, and improve financial outcomes. In this article, we reflect on the key themes we observed at EOFY 2025 and outline how business owners can use this insight to plan more effectively for FY26.

What Your EOFY Data Can Tell You

EOFY reporting can reveal valuable insights when reviewed with the right lens. Key questions to consider include:

• Did our budgeting align with actual performance?
• Where were cost blowouts, and were they preventable?
• How effectively are we managing our working capital and debt levels?
• Are there compliance risks or gaps in our record-keeping?

By examining financial statements and tax outcomes holistically, business owners can better understand which areas require attention and where improvements can be made.

Hall Browns can help prepare a concise EOFY debrief report that covers profitability, cash flow, tax position, and operational spend to inform decision-making for FY26.

Turning Reflection into Strategy

The insights gained during EOFY should inform business strategy – not just compliance.

Key focus areas post-EOFY include:

• Preparing your 2026 Budget: Ensuring your 2026 budget and cash flow forecast has been prepared and agreed to by all relevant parties.
• 2025 Compliance : Ensuring your 2025 financial and tax information is being collated in order to ensure your compliance is prepared as quickly as possible after the end of the financial year.
• Reviewing Capex & Staffing: Ensuring your current team and equipment needs are capable of meeting your 2026 forecast budget
• Reviewing business structure: Ensuring your current setup remains tax-effective and aligned with operational needs.
• Refining your cash flow strategy: Addressing late payments, tightening collection cycles, and implementing rolling forecasts.
• Evaluating systems and processes: Considering whether your financial tools and reporting frameworks are fit for purpose.
• Clarifying financial goals: Establishing short- and long-term objectives that reflect business priorities and market conditions.

A structured EOFY debrief can serve as a foundation for broader planning and performance reviews.

Strategic Planning for FY26

Planning for FY26 should begin immediately after EOFY. Key components of a strong financial strategy include:

• Quarterly forecasting: Adjusting assumptions and expectations regularly based on performance trends and market shifts.
• Budget alignment: Ensuring operational budgets reflect strategic goals, growth plans, and investment priorities.
• Tax planning: Engaging early with your accountant to proactively manage tax liabilities and take advantage of available concessions.
• Risk management: Building flexibility into your financial strategy to withstand unforeseen challenges.
  

Businesses that approach the year with clear metrics and active monitoring are better placed to adapt and thrive.

How Hall Browns Can Support Your Business Post-EOFY

EOFY is an ideal time to reassess your accounting partnership and the level of strategic support your business receives.

At Hall Browns, we provide:

• Detailed EOFY reviews tailored to your business objectives
• Guidance on tax planning and business structure optimisation
• Forecasting and budgeting assistance using industry-leading tools
• Ongoing advisory services to support growth, compliance, and resilience

We believe EOFY should not be a one-off conversation. It should be the start of a deliberate, data-driven approach to financial performance.

Final Thoughts

The start of the financial year presents an important opportunity to reflect on the year just completed – and to use those insights to plan with purpose for the one ahead. Rather than viewing EOFY as a final task, treat it as a strategic turning point.

With the right advice and planning in place, your business can enter FY26 with greater clarity, control, and confidence.

Looking to maximise your EOFY insights?

Contact Hall Browns to schedule a tailored EOFY debrief and build your roadmap for FY26 success.

 

Disclaimer

This article is general in nature and not intended as financial advice. For personalised recommendations, please consult a professional accountant or visit our resources page.