Conversations answer burning tax questions
The Australian Tax Office is hosting a series of ‘community conversations’ in regional areas around the country to gain feedback and answer the burning questions of small businesses.
The sessions, which commence in the NSW regional city of Wollongong today, aim to build trust and confidence among the broader community.
“We have already changed how we do some things based on what business and tax professionals told us,” says Deputy Commissioner David Diment (pictured).
“The Community Conversations provide another opportunity for the ATO leadership to talk with business owners to find out directly what else they think the ATO needs to improve.”
A short session will outline ATO initiatives to improve business owners’ experience dealing with the ATO, followed by small group sessions during which time businesses can engage with ATO representatives.
Information desks will enable attendees to speak one-on-one with ATO representatives.
“These changes are designed to make business interactions with the ATO simpler, more efficient and less costly,” Diment adds.
Community Conversations are being held in:
- NSW: Wollongong (2 September); Bathurst (8 September); Wagga Wagga (10 September) and Coffs Harbour (15 September)
- Victoria: Traralgon (17 September); Mildura (22 September); Geelong (24 September); Shepparton (29 September) and Bendigo (1 October)
- Queensland: Gold Coast (6 October); Sunshine Coast (8 October) and Cairns (13 October)
- South Australia: Port Pirie (15 October) and Mount Gambier (20 October)
- Northern Territory: Darwin (22 October)
- West Australia: Geralton (5 November) and Busselton (12 November)
- Tasmania: Launceston (10 November)
Places are limited and registration is essential.