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Run on property valuers and tax disputes loom under new CGT regime

Published July 5, 2026 at 7:28 PM UTC

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The Australian government's recent overhaul of the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) regime is set to significantly impact property investors, leading to a surge in demand for property valuations and potential tax disputes. The 2026-27 Federal Budget introduced substantial changes, including the replacement of the 50% CGT discount with cost base indexation and a 30% minimum tax on net capital gains for assets held over 12 months.

Disagreements may arise regarding the market value of properties as of 1 July 2027, the application of cost base indexation, and the determination of net capital gains subject to the minimum tax.

**Role of Property Valuers**

Certified property valuers play a critical role in this new landscape. Their expertise is essential for providing accurate valuations that withstand ATO scrutiny. Valuers must adhere to professional standards, ensuring that their reports are based on comparable market sales evidence and are structured according to accepted valuation methodology. Given the complexity of the new CGT regime, the demand for qualified valuers is expected to increase, potentially leading to a backlog of valuation requests.

**Impact on Property Investors**

Property investors must proactively seek professional valuations to comply with the new CGT requirements. Delays in obtaining valuations could result in inaccurate tax reporting and increased risk of disputes with the ATO. Investors should also be aware of the transitional rules, which allow for the 50% CGT discount to apply to gains accrued before 1 July 2027, while gains accrued after that date will be subject to the new regime. Staying informed and engaging with qualified valuers will be crucial for navigating the evolving tax landscape.

**Conclusion**

The overhaul of Australia's CGT regime is poised to reshape the property investment landscape. With the replacement of the 50% CGT discount and the introduction of a 30% minimum tax, property valuers are set to experience increased demand. Simultaneously, the potential for tax disputes underscores the importance of accurate and compliant valuations. Property investors are advised to consult with certified valuers promptly to ensure adherence to the new tax laws and to mitigate the risk of disputes.