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Foreign investment services unavailable

Last updated 16 May 2023

From 26 June 2023, we’re starting our new service Online services for foreign investors. This service will support a new Register of Foreign Ownership of Australian Assets (the Register) expected to start on 1 July.

To get our systems ready for Online services for foreign investors, some foreign investment services will be unavailable between 17 June and 25 June.

The following forms will permanently close and be unavailable to use from close of business on 16 June:

Between 17 June and 25 June, we will continue to process forms submitted before close of business on 16 June. During this time you can still make payments.

What you need to do

Prepare for how you can meet your foreign investment in Australia obligations.

If your vacancy fee return or asset registration is due, be aware of the due date:

  • vacancy fee return – 30 days after the end of the vacancy year
  • asset registration – within 30 days of settlement date.

You should:

  • lodge early, before 17 June using the current forms
  • plan to lodge on time from 26 June using Online services for foreign investors.

If you are a foreign investor planning to purchase residential real estate in the next 12 months, consider if an exemption certificate better suits your needs. Applying for an exemption certificate before 17 June means you can:

  • apply using the current form
  • have a valid approval for 12 months
  • pay the fee before the 1 July 2023 fee increase when indexation is applied.

This is a significant change for foreign investors. From 26 June our website will have information to help you, including how to get started and set up your access to the new service.

Take the time to visit the site at ato.gov.au/osfi to see how you can use and access Online services for foreign investors.

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