register as a sole trader?, page-4

greenscorpio0,

The fact that those gains were treated as "capital gains" means that in your last year's tax return you were classed as an investor, not a share trader.

Any of those shares you owned as at June 30, 2013 and still own today will remain as "investments".

That point above is important.

However, there is nothing to stop you from treating the NEW shares you have bought since July 1, 2013 as part of your stock of shares bought for trading.

There had been some discussions here in the past on the difference between an investor and a share trader for tax purposes. It is an area that will require more than just a few sentences to explain if you want to have a good understanding of the distinction.

There is no reason why you cannot be both an investor and a share trader, provided you keep the two portfolios of shares separate, and maintain an accurate record of the transactions.

No doubt you will receive a few responses here in response to your originating post.

Just one point, you said:

"I do know already about the tax being halved on gains for shares held over a year."

That only applies to shares that you have bought for investments, not for trading.

Just a quick answer to the question you asked in your first post, yes, you can claim as deductions some of the expenses you mentioned, some 100%, some will have to be proportionate.

Home office expense claims do attract the attention of the ATO. Make sure you do it right.