ACT welcomes practical tax changes to reward aspiration

ACT is spotlighting two tax changes in Budget 2026 to reward aspiration, investment, and enterprise.

Simpler Fringe Benefit Tax rules for work vehicles

“The detailed FBT logbook is a symbol of pointless Wellington bureaucracy,” says ACT Finance spokesperson Todd Stephenson.

“Tradies and small business owners have been forced to spend time tracking vehicle use instead of getting on with the job.

“Budget 2026 introduces a more practical approach for private motor vehicle use, removing the requirement for detailed FBT logbooks.

“That means less paperwork, lower compliance costs, and more time for business owners to get on with running their business.

A fairer approach to Foreign Investment Fund rules

“Budget 2026 also takes a major step toward fixing unfair Foreign Investment Fund rules.

“FIF rules have punished New Zealanders for investing overseas and trying to build their future. People should not be hit with surprise tax bills on paper gains when they haven’t actually received the money.

“The FIF threshold is being doubled from $50,000 to $100,000, reducing the number of everyday retail investors caught by the rules.

“The Government is also extending a new FIF method so eligible taxpayers are taxed on realised gains and actual dividends, not paper gains.

“These are practical changes that make the tax system fairer, simpler, and more focused on the real world. ACT promised to kill dumb compliance and back New Zealanders who work hard, take risks, and invest for the future. In Budget 2026, we’re delivering.”