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This edited version has been archived due to the length of time since original publication.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

You cannot rely on this record in your tax affairs. It is not binding and provides you with no protection (including from any underpaid tax, penalty or interest). In addition, this record is not an authority for the purposes of establishing a reasonably arguable position for you to apply to your own circumstances. For more information on the status of edited versions of private advice and reasons we publish them, see PS LA 2008/4.

Edited version of private ruling

Authorisation Number: 1011862345347

    This edited version of your ruling will be published in the public Register of private binding rulings after 28 days from the issue date of the ruling. The attached private rulings fact sheet has more information.

    Please check this edited version to be sure that there are no details remaining that you think may allow you to be identified. Contact us at the address given in the fact sheet if you have any concerns.

Ruling

Subject: Gift from family member

Question

Are you assessable on money gifted to you by a family member?

Answer

No.

This ruling applies for the following period

Year ended 30 June 2012

The scheme commenced on

1 July 2011

Relevant facts

Your parent is selling their residential home and will give you an amount from the proceeds of the sale.

The amount will be made as a once off gift payment in order to help you repay private debts.

Relevant legislative provisions

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 Section 6-5

Reasons for decision

Subsection 6-5(2) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 provides that the assessable income of an Australian resident includes ordinary income derived directly or indirectly from all sources, whether in or out of Australia.

Ordinary income is income according to ordinary concepts. Ordinary income has generally been held to include three categories, namely, income from rendering personal services, income from property and income from carrying on a business. The legislation does not provide a definition of 'ordinary income' therefore it is necessary to turn to case law.

A personal gift received by an individual from family members, not related to any income-producing activity on the part of the individual, is not assessable income under section 6-5 of the ITAA 1997. A gift received by an individual from his or her parents or other close relatives out of natural love and affection is not assessable income in the individual's hands. Therefore, you are not assessable on money gifted to you by your parent.