The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) continues to support those affected by the North Queensland floods in early 2019 as part of a whole-of-government effort to help people get back on their feet. The ATO is aware that many small businesses and farmers in the region are still doing it tough.

Assistant Commissioner Andrew Watson said that people affected by the disaster should contact the ATO if they are struggling to meet their tax or superannuation obligations.

“The ATO automatically deferred payments and lodgments due from January to May 2019 until 31 May 2019. However, we recognise the floods are still impacting many people in the region and we are committed to assisting people to get back on track. Whether you’re an individual, business owner or primary producer, we want to work with you to help sort out your tax affairs.” Mr Watson said.

“If you’re struggling with your tax or 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”.

If taxpayers are having trouble meeting their tax and super obligations, or did not meet the deferred due date, the ATO can help. Depending on individual circumstances, the ATO may:

  • give people extra time to pay their debt or lodge tax forms such as activity statements
  • re-issue income tax returns, activity statements and notices of assessment
  • help re-construct  tax records that are lost or damage
  • fast track refunds
  • set up a payment plan tailored to individual circumstances, including interest free periods
  • 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. 

The ATO has more information about help and support options on its website: ato.gov.au/NaturalDisasters