24 June 2010

Parliament Passes Bill Streaming GST

The Parliament has today passed legislation that streamlines the administration of the goods and services tax (GST) and reduces compliance costs for taxpayers.

"I welcome the passage of this legislation which demonstrates the Government's commitment to addressing taxpayers' concerns about compliance costs and providing certainty for taxpayers,” the Assistant Treasurer said.

The measures contained in Tax Laws Amendment (2010 GST Administration Measures No. 3) Bill 2010:

  • streamline compliance costs for taxpayers for cross border transport supplies;
  • ensure that the GST treatment of global roaming in Australia is consistent with Australia's treaty obligations; and
  • ensure appropriate treatment for GST groups under the recent amendments concerning third party payments.

The Government has worked closely with a range of stakeholder groups to deliver the measures contained in this legislation.

The amendment to the GST treatment of global roaming applies from 1 July 2000. The other reforms apply from 1 July 2010.