The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) remains committed to engaging with taxpayers about unpaid debts as the economy emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic. The ATO is offering tailored support and assistance to taxpayers with overdue debts.
During the early days of COVID-19, the ATO deliberately shifted its focus away from firmer debt collection action to help and assist businesses and the community experiencing challenges because of the pandemic.
ATO Deputy Commissioner Vivek Chaudhary confirmed the ATO's preferred approach is always to work with taxpayers to resolve their situation through engagement rather than enforcement.
"We have a range of support and assistance we can provide, and we can tailor a solution to a taxpayer's unique circumstances. What is critical is that taxpayers or their representatives talk to us and respond to our calls."
