Compare Capital Gains Tax Scenarios

Model two completely independent scenarios to see which option results in less CGT. Compare different assets, sale dates, income levels, and exemptions side-by-side.

Need to calculate a single capital gain first? Use our CGT calculator.

When to use Compare Mode

  • Different assets: Compare selling shares vs property
  • Different timing: Compare selling this year vs next year
  • Different income years: Model how different taxable income affects CGT
  • What-if analysis: Test any two CGT scenarios you can imagine
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01 —INPUTS
A
Scenario A saves $3,920.00 in tax compared to Scenario B
02 —RESULTS

Scenario A

Lower Tax
Buying/selling costs, stamp duty, legal fees, agent fees
Your taxable income excluding this capital gain

2025-26 Capital Gains Tax rates

5 months — No CGT discount
+
Capital GainYour capital gain is $24,500.00
x
CGT DiscountNo CGT discount applies
$
Additional TaxThis capital gain increases your tax by approximately $7,840.00

Tax Comparison

MetricBefore SaleAfter Sale
Taxable income$95,000.00$119,500.00
Income tax$19,288.00$26,638.00
Medicare levy$1,900.00$2,390.00
Total tax$21,188.00$29,028.00

Scenario B

Buying/selling costs, stamp duty, legal fees, agent fees
Your taxable income excluding this capital gain

2025-26 Capital Gains Tax rates

12+ months — 50% CGT discount applies
+
Capital GainYour capital gain is $24,500.00
%
CGT Discount50% CGT discount applied: $12,250.00
$
Additional TaxThis capital gain increases your tax by approximately $3,920.00

Tax Comparison

MetricBefore SaleAfter Sale
Taxable income$95,000.00$107,250.00
Income tax$19,288.00$22,963.00
Medicare levy$1,900.00$2,145.00
Total tax$21,188.00$25,108.00
03 —BREAKDOWN

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricScenario AScenario BDifference
Capital Gain$24,500.00$24,500.00—
CGT DiscountNoneNone—
Taxable Gain$0.00$0.00—
Additional Tax$7,840.00$3,920.00$3,920.00
Effective CGT Rate0.3%0.2%0.2%

This calculator provides estimates only and does not constitute financial advice. Actual amounts may vary based on individual circumstances. Consult a registered tax agent for personalised guidance.

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How to get the most out of Compare Mode

Each side calculates capital gains tax independently. Change one variable at a time — sale year, income level, or asset type — to isolate its tax impact. The URL updates automatically so you can bookmark or share your comparison.

New to capital gains tax? Our CGT calculator page explains how the 50% discount, main residence exemption, and marginal tax rates work.

Frequently asked questions

What is CGT Compare Mode?
CGT Compare Mode lets you calculate capital gains tax for two completely independent scenarios side-by-side. Unlike our preset scenarios, you have full control over every input in both scenarios—different assets, different purchase dates, different income levels, and more.
How is this different from the CGT scenario pages?
Our scenario pages (like "Sell now vs hold") start with shared base values and vary specific inputs. Compare Mode treats Scenario A and Scenario B as entirely separate calculations, so you can compare completely different situations.
Can I compare different types of assets?
Yes. You can set Scenario A to shares and Scenario B to property (or vice versa). Each scenario operates independently with its own asset type, PPOR settings, and all other inputs.
How do I share my comparison?
The URL updates automatically as you change inputs. Simply copy the URL from your browser's address bar to share your exact comparison with someone else, or bookmark it to return later.
What does the "Lower Tax" badge mean?
When both scenarios have valid results, the one with lower additional tax payable displays a "Lower Tax" badge. This helps you quickly identify which option results in less capital gains tax.
Is this financial advice?
No. This calculator provides estimates only to help you understand potential outcomes. For significant transactions, complex structures, or tax planning decisions, consult a registered tax agent or financial adviser.

Related Tools

CGT Calculator

Calculate capital gains tax for a single asset sale.

CGT Scenarios

Explore preset comparisons like "sell now vs hold" and "PPOR vs investment".

Income Tax Calculator

Estimate your total income tax including capital gains.

Tax Accuracy & Sources

Reviewed: March 2026 · Tax year: 2025-26

Compares two independent CGT scenarios using standard discount and PPOR rules. It does not cover multiple concurrent properties, capital loss carry-forward, or foreign resident CGT rules.

Last updated 28 April 2026 Tax year 2025-26

Data sources: ATO (ato.gov.au), Services Australia

This tool is general information only, not financial advice.

Read our methodology →