This year's advertising campaign shifted focus to send a clear message to the community: 'it's not worth the risk'.
Last year the campaign focused on encouraging those involved in illegal activity involving tax havens to voluntarily disclose their income.
'People have had their chance to come clean and potentially reduce the penalties they might have to face for their involvement in offshore havens. Now, we will be pursuing and bringing to account those who rort the system to their advantage,' Commissioner of Taxation Michael D'Ascenzo said.
Not only does this advertising campaign send a warning to people who are involved or considering becoming involved in economic crime, it also helps reassure the Australian community that Project Wickenby will bring to account those who create a greater burden on honest taxpayers by avoiding their tax obligations.
You may have seen the advertisements in the Australian Financial Review, The Sydney Morning Herald, and The Age in May and in The Australian in June. Advertisements also appeared in the June editions of several financial magazines. Search engine marketing was also used to help steer potential evaders, looking for information on tax havens online, to the information on the ATO website.
Overall, there were 7,699 responses to the offshore voluntary disclosure initiative (OVDI) disclosing in $836.02 million of omitted income. Although the OVDI has ended, taxpayers who make a voluntary disclosure will still generally face reduced penalties, provided they come forward before a review or audit is commenced.
The ATO is always willing to help taxpayers do the right thing. If you are concerned you may be involved in a suspect scheme and would like to discuss your situation with a tax officer, you can phone us on 1800 306 377. You can remain anonymous if you prefer.
Sections within Prevention
Last Modified: Tuesday, 20 March 2012