Helen Coonan Outlines Tax Inspector-General's Powers

by Mary Swire, Tax-News.com, Hong Kong

17 September 2002

In a statement released this week, Australian Revenue Minister and Assistant Treasurer, Helen Coonan detailed the responsibilities and powers which will be afforded to the Inspector-General of Taxation, when appointed.

'As Minister for Revenue, my key priorities are to improve the responsiveness of the tax system to the genuine concerns of taxpayers and to ensure that the tax system is fair,' the Assistant Treasurer explained on Monday. She continued:

'A vital part of the Government's election platform to improve the tax system is the establishment of the Inspector-General of Taxation as a new advocate for taxpayers and an independent adviser to government on tax administration issues.'

Releasing recommendations made in reponse to a Consultation Paper published at the end of May, Senator Coonan announced that the new Inspector-General will have a great deal of discretion in prioritising areas of concern, and will be able to undertake reviews on an 'own motion' basis. However, the new official will also be obliged to respond to directions from Treasury Ministers.

The statement went on to reveal that although the Inspector-General of Taxation will be required to report annually to Parliament, in order to 'avoid speculation and uncertainty about the taxation system...it is proposed that the Treasury Ministers would have the responsibility for releasing reports by the Inspector-General.'

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