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This edited version has been archived due to the length of time since original publication.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: 1051375875109

Date of advice: 22 May 2018

Ruling

Subject: Non-commercial losses and the Commissioner’s discretion

Question

Will the Commissioner exercise the discretion in paragraph 35-55(1)(b) of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997) to allow you to include any losses from your business in your calculation of taxable income?

Answer

Yes.

Having regard to your full circumstances, it is accepted that it is the nature your business activity that has prevented you from making a profit. It is also accepted that you will make a profit within the commercially viable period for your industry.

Consequently the Commissioner will exercise his discretion in the 20XX-XX and 20XX-XX financial years.

This ruling applies for the following periods:

Year ended 30 June 20XX

Year ending 30 June 20XX

The scheme commenced on:

1 July 20XX

Relevant facts and circumstances

You satisfy the $250,000 income requirement set out in subsection 35-10(2E) of the ITAA 1997.

You are carrying on a business activity which commenced in 20XX.

Upon the commencement of the business you did minor preparations while waiting for the industry standard time period to plant your crops.

It is normal practice that when following the industry recommended commencement activities, the business should be commercially viable within 18 months.

You will be doing the majority of the required tasks in the business outside of normal working hours, and you will be contracting in labour to undertake specific tasks when required.

You have provided independent evidence that attests to a lead time of three years for your industry.

You project to make $20,000 in assessable income in the 2018-19 financial year.

Relevant legislative provisions

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 subsection 35-10(1)

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 subsection 35-10(2)

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 subsection 35-10(2E)

Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 paragraph 35-55(1)(b)