Quantcast
au iconAU
au iconUK
au icon AU
uk icon UK

 

 

ATO issues call to NSW and Qld communities affected by March floods

People affected by the NSW and Queensland March floods are being told to contact the ATO if they are struggling to meet their tax and super obligations.

ATO issues call to NSW and Qld communities affected by March floods
smsfadviser logo
  • Maja Garaca Djurdjevic
  • •
  • May 06, 2021
  • •
  • 1 minute read
Share this article
ATO issues call to NSW and Qld communities affected by March floods
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is reassuring communities that support is available for those affected by the NSW and south-east Queensland (SEQ) floods in March.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the ATO said it recognises the challenging conditions faced by those in affected areas, especially small businesses, and while their tax affairs may not be top of mind, support is available.
Assistant commissioner Andrew Watson said that people affected by the disaster should contact the ATO if they are struggling to meet their tax and super obligations.
“Whilst the immediate danger has passed, we understand that there are lasting impacts for these communities, on top of challenges likely already being faced for businesses impacted by COVID-19. We are committed to assisting people get back on track," Mr Watson said.
"We have a range of practical options available to support those who have been affected by the floods, whether you’re an individual, business owner or primary producer we want to work with you to help sort out your tax affairs.
"If you’re struggling with your tax and super obligations as a result of the floods, give us a call on 1800 806 218 to discuss how we can support you. You can also discuss your options with your registered tax professional if you have one.”

Depending on individual circumstances, the ATO may:

  • give people extra time to pay their debt or lodge tax forms such as activity statements;
  • help re-construct tax records that are lost or damaged;
  • fast track refunds;
  • set up a payment plan tailored to individual circumstances, including interest free periods; and
  • remit penalties or interest charged during the time people have been affected.

The ATO is also reminding business owners that it is important to keep their Australian business number (ABN) information up to date, as it is:

  • used by Emergency Services and other government agencies during times of natural disaster;
  • used by the Government to identify where financial disaster relief is needed to help businesses recover in disaster affected areas; and
  • likely to be checked if they are applying for a grant or loan for their business.

Business owners can access, change or cancel their ABN details online at abr.gov.au. All changes made to their ABN online will take effect immediately.

Subscribe to Public Accountant

Receive the latest news, opinion and features directly to your inbox