The recent floods have inflicted significant hardship on Australians across the country. Fortunately we are a nation built on mateship; a nation that chips in to help others when the times are tough.
The sight of thousands of volunteers lining up to help neighbours they have never met or donate money to areas they will never visit, tells a story of a country that believes in community and is willing to do what it takes to keep that community running.
Our taxation system relies on everyone playing their part and contributing their fair share of the revenue. In turn, the revenue stream supports the community, providing essential services like infrastructure, education and health. It is critical that we protect the revenue needed to sustain our Australian way of life.
In these difficult times, we understand there will be people with cases of genuine hardship who will need our assistance. The message to these people is we are here to help.
But our commitment to protecting the revenue for the community remains strong. While the majority of Australians do the right thing, for the ones who don't the message is clear: behaviour that erodes the Australian community will not be tolerated. When it comes to tax, the hardworking, honest Australians who willingly pay their fair share should not have to pick up the slack caused by those who deliberately evade their obligations.
This magazine highlights how the ATO and partner agencies work together to deal with serious abuses of the tax and superannuation systems - to ensure a fair go for all Australians.
The task of protecting the revenue is not always an easy one and I applaud the efforts of all the agencies involved in the fight against tax crime. When we see images of vast stretches of washed away roads, damaged schools and homes underwater, it's a resounding confirmation of the importance of protecting the taxation system.
The Hon Bill Shorten MP
Assistant Treasurer
Minister for Financial Services and Superannuation
Last Modified: Friday, 18 January 2013