David Vos, Inspector-General of Taxation, today released a series of Issues Papers on systemic problems with the tax system. The papers are the result of extensive community consultation which has taken place since his appointment in August 2003.

“Some sixty potential reviews have been identified by the consultative process. Businesses, accountants and lawyers are wasting time and expertise on tax compliance that could otherwise be directed to building competitive Australian businesses” said Mr Vos.

The sixty issues have been broadly categorised into grouping around self assessment, law enforcement and governance, and ATO/Client interactions.

Mr Vos stated “It is important at this stage to evaluate the issues that have been raised with me and confirm which are the high priority matters for immediate review. The fact that a matter has been flagged with me does not mean that it is a systemic problem in tax administration.”

In releasing the Issues Papers, Mr Vos will be actively seeking community feedback on the identified matters and advice on the relative priority of issues. “I have quite finite resources and need to ensure that I investigate matters which provide the best return for the overall community” said Mr Vos.

At the request of the Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Revenue, Senator Helen Coonan, the Inspector-General will be conducting a review concerning aspects of the ATO’s approach to administration of the General Interest Charge in disputed tax situations, particularly focussing on employee benefit arrangements. “This matter rated highly in the consultative process and is an important topic to commence with” said Mr Vos.

The Issues Papers are available on the Inspector-General of Taxation website www.igt.gov.au.

SYDNEY
7 December 2003

Contact: David R Vos AM
0407 662 631