The Assistant Treasurer, Senator Rod Kemp, today launched a new series of ethnic radio programs from the Australian Taxation Office to be aired on SBS Radio.
The programs will be run in Arabic, Cantonese, Spanish and Vietnamese.
"For reasons of language and culture, many people from these communities have been reluctant to approach government organisations for information. The Tax Office radio programs will give information to people in a medium they are comfortable with and in a language they fully understand," Senator Kemp said.
"Providing services like this recognises that a nation like Australia has many diverse ethnic backgrounds and services need to be provided to assist Australians whose first language is not English."
The programs will cover important areas such as personal tax, small business tax and superannuation and the Superannuation Guarantee and will be supported by fact sheets and other information in relevant languages that is also available on the ATO’s internet site at www.ato.gov.au.
"The Tax Office programs are a practical example of how the Federal Government is ensuring that all Australians have access to information regarding their rights and obligations under the tax system."
SYDNEY
16 July 1999
Contact Officers: Matthew Guy
Assistant Treasurer’s Office
0419 482 497