PODCAST – Conversations with Argon Law | Episode 1: Structuring for Success

Structuring for Success: Getting Your Business Structure Right

Choosing the right business structure is one of the most important decisions a business owner will make – yet it’s often misunderstood or left unchecked for too long.

In Episode 1 of Conversations with Argon Law, Director John Gallagher is joined by Katrina Brennan from SRJ Walker Wayland Sunshine Coast to discuss what structuring for success really means in practice, and how the right structure can protect your assets, support growth, and minimise legal and tax risk.

This episode explores:

• What “structuring for success” means for modern businesses
• The key differences between sole traders, partnerships, companies, and trusts
• Common structuring mistakes that expose businesses to unnecessary risk
• When and why business owners should consider restructuring
• The legal and tax implications that must be addressed before making changes
• Practical steps business owners can take today to future-proof their structure

Designed for business owners at every stage – from start-up to established enterprise – this conversation provides clear, practical insights to help you make informed decisions about your business structure before issues arise.

Who should listen?

• Business owners and company directors
• Start-ups and growing businesses
• Professionals reviewing outdated business structures
• Anyone considering restructuring for growth, succession, or risk management

Experienced guidance you can trust

This episode highlights the value of early collaboration between legal and accounting advisers to ensure business structures remain compliant, flexible, and aligned with long-term objectives.

Listen/Watch – Episode 1 of Conversations with Argon Law

Watch on YouTube: 🎧 Episode 1: Structuring for Success. Subscribe to the Conversations with Argon Law Podcast on YouTube here to be notified when new episodes are launched.

Listen on Spotify: 🎧 Episode 1: Structuring for Success. Subscribe to the Conversations with Argon Law Podcast on Spotify here to be notified when new episodes are launched.

Need advice on your business structure?
Visit argonlaw.com.au, explore our legal resources, or contact the Argon Law team on 07 5443 9988 to discuss how we can support your business.

Frequently Asked Questions – Structuring for Success

Q. What does “structuring for success” mean in a business context?

A. Structuring for success refers to choosing and maintaining a business structure that supports growth, manages risk, and aligns with a business owner’s commercial, legal, and tax objectives. The right structure should be reviewed over time as a business grows or changes.

Q. What is the best business structure in Australia?

A. There is no single “best” business structure. The most suitable structure depends on factors such as business size, risk profile, tax considerations, growth plans, and succession objectives. Common structures include sole traders, partnerships, companies, and trusts, each with different legal and tax implications.

Q. When should a business review its structure?

A. A business should review its structure when starting out, during periods of growth, when taking on partners or investors, before significant asset purchases, or when planning for succession or sale. Regular reviews can help identify risks before they become costly issues.

Q. What are the risks of having the wrong business structure?

A. An unsuitable structure can expose business owners to unnecessary personal liability, higher tax obligations, operational inflexibility, and difficulties during disputes, succession planning, or business sales. Many issues only become apparent when a business faces financial stress or change.

Q. Can a business change its structure later?

A. Yes, businesses can restructure, but doing so may trigger legal, tax, and compliance consequences. Restructuring should be carefully planned with legal and accounting advice to manage risks such as capital gains tax, stamp duty, and contractual issues.

Q. Why is professional advice important when structuring a business?

A. Business structuring decisions involve both legal and tax considerations. Early collaboration between legal and accounting advisers helps ensure the structure is compliant, commercially practical, and aligned with long-term business goals.