The Commissioner added his welcome to members and guests and spoke briefly about the natural disasters that have occurred in Australia over the past few months, including an outline of the resources that the ATO has invested in responding to community needs.
The Commissioner also advised members of the ATO's work in supporting Centrelink in responding to these natural disasters through the deployment of some 550 ATO staff to assist that agency. This has had some impact on ATO service standards however this is being well managed with the impact kept to a minimum. One area that was affected was our call centres, resulting in some increased call waiting time.
The Commissioner spoke about the ATO's empathetic approach to small businesses that had been affected by the global financial crisis and the firmer action approach that is now being taken in regard to businesses that have failed to meet their payment arrangements. This approach is currently working well in regard to reducing the level of collectable debt. Businesses need to be encouraged to approach the ATO as soon as they start to experience difficulties in regard to payment so that suitable arrangements can be made.
Further to a presentation given to forum members last year, the Commissioner highlighted a business viability assessment tool which is being used by ATO staff to assist them in negotiating payment arrangements and assessing the health and ongoing viability of small businesses.
In closing, the Commissioner outlined some very positive survey results for the ATO which showed that 88% of businesses believe the ATO does a good job, with a similar survey among tax practitioners giving the ATO a rating of 4.06 out of 5. The Commissioner also advised members that the ATO will have a major focus on implementing recommendations arising from the review of the governance, efficiency, structure and operations of Australia's superannuation system (the Cooper Review).
Members then had a general discussion about possible future agenda items for this forum. Suggested topics included:
- update on the ATO's firmer action approach to managing debt
- update on the Cooper review
- contracting/employee status
- benchmarking
- possible 'sham' arrangements
- implications of franchising industry growth on the tax and superannuation systems.
These potential agenda items will be followed up for future meetings by the Secretariat.
Marion Whalan, Pharmacy Guild of Australia raised a specific concern for that industry in relation to contractor/employee arrangements. This will be followed up with Marion directly, out of session.
Action item
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CSBCG/0311-01
Members to be advised of the status of external access to the business viability assessment tool.
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Responsibility
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Secretariat
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Due date
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As soon as possible
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Action item
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CSBCG/0311-02
The ATO to work with the Pharmacy Guild of Australia and the Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research to provide information on contracting arrangements for this industry.
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Responsibility
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Megan Yong
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Due date
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20 May 2011
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Sections within Agenda items
Last Modified: Wednesday, 8 June 2011