The Australian Tax Office will use technology to put its Taxation Law Amendment Bill No 5 regarding tax on computer sales into action quickly. A computer-sales tax retrieval program, complete with an electronic authorization system that will use the internet and interactive voice technology, will be up and running by July says the tax office. Computer system sales currently net the Tax Office around $500m a year, and the department estimates than an additional $80m-$100m a year is lost through sales tax evasion. Mike Cebalo, assistant commissioner (withholding tax), told reporters that after the Bill is given Royal Assent, the tax office will launch a two week public education campaign. Dealer accreditation will then move into full swing. After discussions with the IT industry, the ATO will then start using its authorization system, which can track taxable transactions through the channel. Dealers buying from an unaccredited source will be required by law to withhold sales tax and submit it to the Australian tax office.
