The Commonwealth Ombudsman, Mr Ron McLeod, who is also the Tax Ombudsman, today responded to concerns being raised about the private rulings system in the wake of fraud charges being laid against a former senior tax officer, Nick Petroulias.

Mr McLeod advised that he and his Special Tax Adviser, Ms Catherine McPherson, had been kept informed of the investigation leading up to Nick Petroulias being charged.

They were aware of the implications this raised for taxpayers who may have received private binding rulings from Mr Petroulias.

Mr McLeod said ‘Public confidence in the taxation system is of critical importance to effective tax administration. My Special Tax Adviser will be watching the ATO’s approach to individual taxpayers affected. Anyone who is not satisfied with how the ATO deals with them may lodge their concerns with the Ombudsman’s Office.’

Background

The Commonwealth Ombudsman is an independent officer who can investigate complaints about the actions of Commonwealth departments and agencies, including the ATO. The Commonwealth Ombudsman’s Office can be contacted on: 1300 362 072 for the cost of a local call, or by writing to:

The Special Tax Adviser
Commonwealth Ombudsman
GPO Box 442
CANBERRA ACT 2601

Media Contact

Catherine McPherson, Special Tax Adviser
Media 02 6276 3759
Email – Media@ombudsman.gov.au

Date of release: 4 April 2000