Data matching is one way the ATO ensures compliance with the tax system and, with improvements to IT systems, they are getting really good at it.

So its noteworthy that, with the express intention of checking taxpayers’ residency status, the ATO have gazetted this week that they will be accessing travel records from the Department of Home Affairs on passenger movements from the 2016-17 year onwards. This is new, and means that anyone who has been commuting whilst employed overseas needs to be ready to defend their position.

The data the ATO will have access to includes arrival and departure dates, along with passport information. For further details click here.

Lindsay 0413 952 180