“The ATO pursues tax cheats to the full extent of the law to ensure people who pay their fair share of tax are not disadvantaged,” Tax Commissioner Michael D’Ascenzo said.

“The courts view these matters seriously with seven custodial sentences handed down this quarter, as well as a suspended jail sentence, good behaviour bonds and community service orders.”

“A record jail term of nine years was handed to Vanuatu based accountant Robert Agius for his role in promoting a tax minimisation scheme. He was the twenty-eighth person to be sentenced under Project Wickenby.”

“We don’t just prosecute complicated fraud schemes – this past quarter saw a range of offences including not lodging tax forms and making false and misleading statements.” Mr D’Ascenzo said.

From 1 July to 30 September 2012:

• 13 people were convicted of serious tax and superannuation related criminal offences, including two prosecuted under Project Wickenby
• 452 taxpayers were convicted of deliberately evading their tax and superannuation obligations, including 440 taxpayers who failed to lodge tax returns and activity statements despite reminders and notices demanding lodgement.

The ATO continues to improve automated detection methods and works closely with partners in government, law enforcement and industry to identify people avoiding their obligations.

“Our increasingly sophisticated information matching capabilities enable us to catch those cheating the system and protect the overall integrity,” said Mr D’Ascenzo.

“Tax dollars fund vital government services such as health care and schools and superannuation funds our retirement. Those who cheat the system cheat the community.”

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