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ATO to Review 2015 Tax Remission for Former Prime Minister’s Company

It aims to bolster transparency by scrutinizing how the office canceled almost $1 million in penalties and interest for a former prime minister’s investment company.

Overview

  • The ATO has opened an internal and independent probe into its 2015 write-off of $953,396 owed by Brenlex Pty Ltd.
  • The review follows an ABC Four Corners exposé that uncovered an abrupt cancellation after three years of talks over unreported profits from a 2004 share sale.
  • In its statement, the tax office pledged to tighten oversight, refine general interest charge remission protocols and improve system checks.
  • Due to taxpayer confidentiality laws, the ATO cannot comment on specific details but has vowed procedural enhancements where necessary.
  • Academics argue that unexplained concessions for high-profile taxpayers erode public trust and demand clearer criteria and accountability.