ATO offers tax relief for people, businesses

The Australian Taxation Office has promised relief measures to help those affected by COVID-19.

The ATO will “work with individuals experiencing financial hardship” and will “apply appropriate tax relief measures for serious and exceptional circumstances, such as where people cannot pay for food or accommodation”.

The tax office also offered support to coronavirus-affected businesses, with measures including:

• Tailored support plans
• Deferral of tax payments by up to six months
• Faster access to GST refunds
• Low-interest repayment plans for businesses with tax liabilities

Anyone impacted by COVID-19 can call the ATO’s emergency support infoline on 1800 806 218.