The formation of the Tax Bar Association at the Victorian Bar is indicative of the forerunning role that the bar plays as an important constituent of the legal community. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) looks forward to working closely with the Association and its members.Such a...

At the core of the Westminster style of government is a professional, apolitical and effective public service: as matters now stand, the Government of the country could not be carried on without the aid of an efficient body of permanent officers, occupying a position duly subordinate to that of...

The mission statement for the Treasury portfolio is about contributing to the economic and social well being of Australia.While the ATO is an independent statutory agency within that portfolio, we have taken that mission as applicable to us

It has been almost two years since I've taken up the reins as Commissioner of Taxation and I'd like to share with you my journey so far. I trust that what I have learned from the ATO will resonate with you, because many of the challenges we face are similar. For example, how can we as the public...

Having spent a large part of my career helping the Tax Office reach a point where it is generally recognised as among the best tax administrations in the world, the challenge now is to lift the bar on excellence

Effective tax and superannuation administration depends on more than the efforts of the Australian Taxation Office. It also relies on a capable and well-regulated tax and accounting profession.So what are the challenges? This is what we, in the ATO, think

I believe that the effective administration of the tax and superannuation systems are important for Australia's wellbeing and for our global competitiveness.However, effective administration relies on more than the capability of the Australian Tax Office - it also relies on the capabilities of...

Recently the Certified Practicing Accountants asked me, "what is it about being Commissioner that has news of your appointment on the front page of the Australian Financial Review?""Probably little other news that day", was my response. However, the tax system is important to the nature of our...

I've been asked for my perspective on the progress we have made since starting the journey over two years ago which raised with CEOs, company directors and Boards the consideration of tax risks as part of good corporate governance.Anecdotal evidence suggests that companies have made good...

In times of chaos, change, adversity, and even plenty - good governance should hold the centre, so as to hold things together. But the concept of 'governance' is not new. It is as old as human civilisation itself. Put simply, 'governance' means: the process of decision-making and the process by...