The Assistant Treasurer, Senator Nick Sherry, has today released the wide-ranging terms of reference for the Inspector-General of Taxation's review of the implementation of the Australian Taxation Office's Change Program.
"As I announced last week, I want a comprehensive review of what has been occurring with the implementation of the Tax Office's IT upgrade, known as the Change Program," the Assistant Treasurer said.
"The Tax Office is completely independent so I personally cannot direct in relation to the issues that have been brought to my attention, that's why I have directed the Inspector General to step in and immediately review the program."
"The Terms of Reference are wide-reaching to ensure that all aspects of the program are investigated."
"In particular, I want a clear understanding on how taxpayers have been affected."
The Terms of Reference are set out below:
In accordance with subsection 8(2) of the Inspector-General of Taxation Act 2003, I, Senator the Hon Nick Sherry, Assistant Treasurer direct you to conduct a comprehensive review of the implementation of the Australian Taxation Office's Change Program.
The review should include an examination of:
(a) the impacts of the Change Program on taxpayers, taxpayer representatives and other external clients of the Australian Taxation Office;
(b) the impacts of the Change Program within the Australian Taxation Office;
(c) the resources used to implement the Change Program and whether these resources have been efficiently applied; and
(d) any other related matters.
"I have asked the Inspector-General to consider engaging relevant technical expertise to assist him with the review and to consult broadly with the community and other relevant stakeholders," the Assistant Treasurer said.
"I've required that these consultations include discussions with the key private sector project providers and all third party assurance assessors involved in the project."
"An appropriate timeline for the completion of the review will be decided in conjunction with the Inspector General and will be made public by the Inspector General in due course," the Assistant Treasurer said.