family trust setup information

Family Trust Setup Information

Protect your family’s wealth, reduce tax, and plan for future generations — all with a professionally structured family trust. At TSK Accountants, we help you establish and manage family trusts that align with your financial goals, while ensuring full compliance with Australian laws.


What Is a Family Trust?

A family trust (also known as a discretionary trust) is a legal structure that holds assets or income on behalf of beneficiaries — usually family members. The trustee controls the trust and decides how income and assets are distributed.

Family trusts are commonly used in Australia for:

  • Tax-effective income distribution

  • Asset protection from creditors or lawsuits

  • Succession planning and intergenerational wealth transfer

  • Business and investment structuring


Key Features of a Family Trust

Discretionary Distribution: The trustee chooses how income is split among beneficiaries, offering flexibility to manage tax obligations.
Asset Protection: Assets held in trust are generally shielded from personal liabilities, divorce settlements, and business risks.
Estate Planning: Allows for smoother transfer of wealth without triggering immediate tax events.
Business Use: Ideal for family-run businesses or holding investments, such as property or shares.


Our Family Trust Setup Services

At TSK Accountants, we take the confusion out of trust structures and provide a complete, end-to-end setup service.

Trust Deed Drafting

We work with legal partners to draft a customised trust deed that reflects your intentions, naming the trustee, appointor, beneficiaries, and defining the powers of the trust.

ABN, TFN & ATO Registration

We register the trust for a Tax File Number (TFN) and Australian Business Number (ABN), and assist with GST and PAYG setup if needed.

Trust Bank Account Setup

We help you open a dedicated bank account in the trust’s name, ensuring a clear separation between trust and personal/business funds.

Record-Keeping & Compliance

We guide you through record-keeping requirements, annual tax return obligations, and distribution minutes to meet ATO expectations.


When Should You Set Up a Family Trust?

You might consider setting up a trust if:

  • You want to minimise tax legally by distributing income to lower-income family members

  • You’re running a business or investment portfolio and want to protect assets

  • You have children or dependents you’d like to provide for long-term

  • You’re planning for estate or succession purposes


Why Choose TSK Accountants?

✔️ Expert Guidance – We explain trusts in plain language and tailor them to your family’s needs
✔️ ATO Compliant – All trust setups follow the latest taxation and legal requirements
✔️ Ongoing Support – We provide trust tax return services, annual minutes, and strategic advice
✔️ Transparent Pricing – Fixed fee trust setup with no hidden costs


Let’s Build Your Family’s Financial Future

A family trust isn’t just for the wealthy — it’s a smart structure for any family looking to grow and protect their assets. Whether you’re investing in property, managing business profits, or planning your legacy, TSK Accountants is here to help.

📞 Contact us today to book a initial consultation about setting up your family trust in Melbourne.