Businesses urged to get moving on quarterly BAS

Businesses that have yet to begin their preparations for their first quarterly Business Activity Statement (BAS) reporting period must get moving now, Chairman of The New Tax system Advisory Board, Chris Jordan said today.

"November 11 is the date that should be circled on business calenders," Chris Jordan said, "It is important that businesses have a go at filling in their first quarterly BAS.

"If any business is still unsure about what they have to do, pick up the phone and call 13 24 78 or get on to the internet on www.ato.gov.au and access the help that is available," Chris Jordan said.

For businesses needing help in completing their BAS there is a range of assistance measures available from either the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) or the GST Start-up Assistance Office.

The help includes ‘hands on’ workshops which are being conducted throughout metropolitan and regional Australia that provide practical information on how to complete BAS forms. These workshops are being run by industry associations. Details on dates and locations for these can be obtained by calling 13 30 88 or by visiting the GST Start-up Assistance Office website on www.gststartup.gov.au

This help is in addition to the comprehensive BAS Instruction booklet, a ‘How to’ video and a CD-ROM called ‘Understanding The New Tax System’ that businesses should have received in the mail from the ATO to help them understand how to complete their BAS. If businesses haven’t received this information they should call 13 24 78 to get their free copies.

Most queries can be answered quickly by calling 13 24 78, however, as a safety net measure one-on-one help will be available also for those people who, notwithstanding their best efforts, require more detailed assistance. The one-on-one consultations will be offered from 1 – 8 November when the ATO will be conducting a BAS Help Week throughout Australia. Business can make appointments by calling 1300 138 990 or by visiting the ATO website at www.ato.gov.au

"The ATO is committed to helping all businesses understand what is required of them," Chris Jordan said.

"Where genuine mistakes are made in completing a BAS form the ATO’s priority is to help businesses correct any errors rather than impose penalties.

"The Commissioner of Taxation, Michael Carmody, has made clear the ATO’s desire to engage with businesses and tax agents in a cooperative manner. Businesses that make a genuine attempt to meet their obligations under the new tax system will get fair and helpful assistance from the ATO," Chris Jordan said.

Media Inquiries: Anita Shooks, The New Tax System Advisory Board on (02) 6216 2318 or 0407 406 765