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This edited version has been archived due to the length of time since original publication.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: 1051431773675

Date of advice: 21 September 2018

Ruling

Subject: Capital gains tax

Question

Are you able to apply the absence rule for the period you were not living in your main residence and get the main residence exemption?

Answer

Yes. The absence rule allows a taxpayer to choose to treat a dwelling as their main residence even though they no longer live in it. A taxpayer cannot make this choice for a period before a dwelling first becomes their main residence.

This ruling applies for the following period:

Year ended 30 June 2019

The scheme commences on:

1 July 2018

Relevant facts and circumstances

You purchased property A in XXXX and lived in this property as your main residence until XXXX.

You purchased and moved into property B.

Property A has been rented since XXXX and you have declared rental property income yearly in your income tax return.

You have elected to treat property A as your main residence.

Relevant legislative provisions

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 subdivision 118-B

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 section 118-110

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 section 118-145


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