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This edited version has been archived due to the length of time since original publication.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

Authorisation Number: 1012334549318

    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. If you have any concerns about this ruling you wish to discuss, you will find our contact details in the fact sheet.

Ruling

Subject: Donation

Question

Are you entitled to a deduction for donations for humanitarian aid made to the people of an overseas country?

Answer

No.

This ruling applies for the following period

Year ended 30 June 2012

The scheme commenced on

1 July 2011

Relevant facts

You made two donations to the people of an overseas country of humanitarian aid.

The donations were not sent to a deductible gift recipient (DGR).

Relevant legislative provisions

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 Section 30-15

Reasons for decision

Division 30 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997) outlines the guidelines for the deductibility of gifts and donations. Section 30-15 of the ITAA 1997 provides that a gift to any funds and institutions listed is allowable as a deduction in the income year in which the gift is made, provided the gift meets the various conditions of relevant subsections.

To be able to claim a tax deduction for a gift, it must:

    · be made to a deductible gift recipient (DGR)

    · be a gift of money or property that is covered by a gift type, and

    · be truly a gift.

Subdivision 30-B of the ITAA 1997 sets out a table of recipients for deductible gifts.

In your case, the donations were not made to a DGR covered by subdivision 30-B of the ITAA 1997. Therefore, you are not entitled to a deduction.

Furthermore, the Commissioner does not have the discretion to waiver the rules in your circumstances.