Prosecutions

In referring matters for prosecution, we aim to deter fraudulent activity both in relation to taxation payments and grant and rebate applications. In line with this responsibility we recommended prosecution action be taken against three taxpayers/applicants in 2007–08. Each of these prosecutions is still before the courts or under investigation by Tasmania Police. Five prosecution matters were successfully resolved by the courts during the 2007–08 financial year.

Next year…

In 2008–09 we will continue to build our stakeholder relationships and will seek to expand our consultative arrangements with peak bodies and other interested parties. A communications strategy will be finalised which will include internal and external communications objectives supporting the Departmental Corporate Plan.

The Branch will continue to apply taxation legislation in a fair and transparent manner and will be fiscally responsible in its collection of revenue, aiming to keep operating expenses at or below 1.5 per cent of revenue collected.

We will continue to streamline our processes and improve our service delivery by commencing a major three-year project to implement the outcomes of the Business Process and IT Systems Review. This will improve information management within the branch, which will have beneficial effects on specific tasks, such as our audit targeting, as well as improve the quality of our client interactions. During 2008-09 we will undertake a review of our approach to compliance and develop new approaches to promoting taxpayer compliance.

Regulation and administration of liquor and gaming

(Budget Output 3.2)

Liquor and gaming administration

We have continued to streamline our administration to deliver client services efficiently in our Hobart and Launceston locations, through further development of the Gaming Licence Information System and the commencement of an e-business project.