Foreign hybrids

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This information may not apply to the current year. Check the content carefully to ensure it is applicable to your circumstances.

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If you have an investment in a foreign hybrid, the government has introduced legislation into parliament which will change the tax treatment from 1 July 2003 or optionally from 1 July 2002. A foreign hybrid is an entity that is taxed in Australia as a company but taxed overseas as a partnership. This can include a limited partnership, a limited liability partnership and a US limited liability company. Investors in these entities are now treated for Australian tax purposes as having a partnership interest. Previously, the investors were treated as shareholders and distributions they received were taxed as dividends. When the change becomes law, more information will be available on our website at www.ato.gov.au.