Community and business collaborate on tax reform

Community and business collaborate on tax reformRepresentatives from business and community sectors have begun a dialogue about tax reform to explore areas of agreement and disagreement ahead of the Government’s tax review next year.Members of the Business Community for Tax Reform (BCTR) are meeting with members of the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS), in Sydney on Monday 15 December. The Property Council will be a panellist regarding the reform of consumption taxes and State taxes.The BCTR acts as an umbrella group to bring together views of a range of Australia’s most important and influential business groups.ACOSS is the national peak body for the community sector and advocates for people affected by poverty and inequality. “The current tax system is not delivering the revenue we need to provide the services and supports we will all need into the future. Reform is necessary to ensure access to ensure equitable access to housing, education, secure jobs and income support,” said Dr Cassandra Goldie, CEO of ACOSS.Tom Pockett, Chairman of the BCTR said: “While we may not be able to agree on all elements of reform, it is clear that tax reform is needed to address the key challenges facing Australia’s competitiveness, barriers to participation, employment creation and investment; complexity and reliance on inefficient taxes.”The forum is an opportunity for a range of stakeholders to address critical issues in our tax system, such as Australia’s budget challenge, sustainable growth, affordable housing, fairness, equity and simplicity.For more information and the Statement of Intent click here.