Andrew Leigh

INVESTIGATION INTO THE AUSTRALIAN TAX OFFICE

This morning, Bill Shorten called for an investigation into the Australian Tax Office, following matters raised by a joint Fairfax Media-Four Corners investigation.

This afternoon, the Turnbull Government has heeded our call, announcing that the Turnbull Government will launch an investigation into the Australian Tax Office.

Genuine concerns have been raised and Labor will ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted.

While an investigation into the tax office must be conducted, Labor also recognises that tax office staff have been left struggling as a result of staffing cuts by the Coalition.

Under the Abbott-Turnbull Government, around 4,700 jobs have been slashed from the tax office, making life harder for Australians who just want to pay their taxes and get on with their work.

Labor has announced additional resources for the Australian Tax Office as part of our tax measures. We are committed to appropriate resourcing for regulators and enforcement agencies.

The Coalition always try to blame public servants. But after literally decimating the public service, the Coalition cannot shirk responsibility when things go wrong.

Authorised by Noah Carroll, ALP, Canberra