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This edited version has been archived due to the length of time since original publication. It should not be regarded as indicative of the ATO's current views. The law may have changed since original publication, and views in the edited version may also be affected by subsequent precedents and new approaches to the application of the law.

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Edited version of your written advice

Authorisation Number: 1012823215210

Ruling

Subject: Commissioners discretion

Question

Will the Commissioner exercise his discretion under subsection 118-195(1) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997) and allow an extension of time to the two year period?

Answer

Yes.

This ruling applies for the following periods:

Year ended 30 June 2014

The scheme commences on:

1 July 20XX

Relevant facts and circumstances

The property was the main residence of the deceased before their death and was not being used to produce income.

Probate was issued leaving everything to you.

The will was contested.

Discussions and Mediation occurred between the solicitors of the taxpayer and contestant, in order to settle the matter outside of court.

A judgement/order was issued finalising the matter.

The property was put on the market.

Sale contracts were exchanged and settlement occurred after the end of the two year period.

From the time the will was contested until the judgement/order was issued, you were under instructions from the solicitor that you were not allowed to sell the house.

Relevant legislative provisions

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 Subsection 118-195(1)

Reasons for decision

Subsection 118-195(1) of the ITAA 1997 states that if a dwelling passed to you as the trustee of a deceased estate, a capital gain or capital loss you make from a CGT event that happens in relation to a dwelling or your ownership interest in it is disregarded if:

The Explanatory Memorandum for Tax Laws Amendment (2011 Measures No. 9) Bill 2011 includes the following list of situations in which the Commissioner would be expected to exercise the discretion:

Due to delays caused by the will being challenged the property was unable to be sold within two years of the deceased death.

Accordingly having considered the relevant facts, the Commissioner is able to apply his discretion under subsection 118-195(1) of the ITAA 1997 and allow an extension to the two year time limit.


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