The debate about the future of our tax system was discussed last Thursday in Walcha with Independent Member for New England Tony Windsor and Independent Member for Lyne Rob Oakeshott hosting a Regional Tax Forum.
Around 50 representatives from local government, industry bodies and the local community put forward their cases for a more simplified tax system. Topics covered included Personal Income Tax and Superannuation, Business Income and Rent on Resources and Land, Private Consumption Tax and State Taxes, Extra Targeted Taxes and Making the Tax System more responsive.
The forum was an opportunity for the two Independents to engage with the community and arm themselves with a series of recommendations when the Tax Summit is held in October.
“The GST issue does appear to be the elephant in the room,” said Mr Windsor.
“If we are really serious about simplifying the system, so that there is revenue flowing through to the various spending needs of the community, in my view we really do have to look at the Goods and Services Tax.
“One of the things in terms of a formation of government was that local government be looked at seriously in terms of constitutional recognition. It may not be as important in the city, but there are some crucial issues in the country,” said Mr Windsor.
The overall tone of the discussion was the unnecessary complexity of the current tax system.
“Of the 125 taxes in this country, 10 generate 90 per cent of revenue,” said Mr Oakeshott.
“We need to significantly reduce the inefficient, nuisance taxes.”
Tim Cotter, Regional Manager for AusIndustry in Tamworth, believed the forum was particularly informative.
“There was a lot of vested interest in the room that wanted to bring up topics in and around their areas of interest, but I think the forum was handled well,” said Mr Cotter.
“Most people got to have a say and everyone contributed well.
“The summary that both Independents provided today showed the audience that they listened and that they want to seek further information and represent the people’s interests, which is their job.
“Most people would be happy that they got their voice across today and, as Tony Windsor said, if you don’t turn up, you don’t get to have your say.”
Story: Jo Harrison
