ATO Review

The Ombudsman

The Tax Ombudsman is the independent ‘watchdog’ that can investigate problems with the actions and systems of the tax office, and can help with complaints from community members about how the tax office dealt with their cases.

The Ombudsman operates independently – it is not the tax office and is not in any way involved in collecting tax. The Ombudsman was set up to ensure fairness and transparency in the Australian tax system.

The Review

The Tax Ombudsman took a close look at how the tax office works with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and where things may need to be improved.

They ran a big review to find improvements and make recommendations for both the ATO and maybe the Government. That includes potential changes to tax rules, as well as practical improvements to how the ATO works with Aboriginal communities.

Jindawayni’s role

The Tax Ombudsman asked Jindawayni to help create space for mob to share their experiences dealing with the tax office.

We were there to listen, and to pass on what we heard – the good, the bad and everything in between – so the Ombudsman could understand what needs to change in the tax system.

We held yarning sessions right across Australia, from Nyoongar to Jawoyn to Gadigal to Palawa to Wirangu Country, and everywhere in between. We also hosted an survey for mob to have their say online.

The process

The Ombudsman has finished listening to feedback and ideas from mob, organisations, businesses and others, and is currently writing a report with recommendations about what needs to change in the tax system and how services could work better.

The Ombudsman can’t make the changes themselves or force anyone to accept the recommendations but they do present the report to the tax office and to the Government, and they meet directly with key decision-makers to push for change.

Your involvement

Mob could have a say via an online survey or at community yarning sessions.

Anything you shared will be kept strictly confidential. Your name and other details won’t be included in the report or shared with the tax office.

Only the Jindawayni team will have your contact details, and that’s just in case we need to follow up or let you know about other opportunities you might be interested in.

The Ombudsman is completely independent from the tax office and has nothing to do with collecting tax or compliance. Information obtained by the Tax Ombudsman cannot be shared or used for any other purpose.

Jindawayni

Jindawayni is a small Aboriginal-owned consultancy, led by Kokatha woman Amy Rust.

Our approach to this project was straightforward and community-led. Jindawayni created safe, relaxed spaces for mob to yarn, share experiences and speak honestly.

The focus was on listening properly and making sure what community says is heard by the people with the power to make change.

Respecting your privacy

We take your privacy seriously. We only collect what we need and we’re careful with it. For details, please read the Jindawayni Privacy Policy.

More information about this project

Visit the Tax Ombudsman’s website for more details about the Review.

Community Yarning session dates

Lismore – Monday 4 May ✓
Brisbane – Wednesday 6 May ✓
Gladstone – Friday 8 May ✓
Shepparton – Monday 18 May ✓
Bendigo – Tuesday 19 May ✓
Melbourne – Thursday 21 May ✓
Wagga Wagga – Thursday 4 June ✓
Canberra – Friday 5 June ✓
Sydney – Tuesday 9 June ✓
Port Augusta – Friday 26 June ✓
Ceduna – Monday 29 June ✓
Kalgoorlie – Wednesday 1 July ✓
Port Hedland – Friday 3 July ✓
Perth – Thursday 9 July ✓
Adelaide – Friday 24 July ✓
Alice Springs – Monday 27 July ✓
Katherine – Wednesday 29 July ✓
Hobart – Tuesday 18 August ✓
Launceston – Wednesday 19 August ✓
Devonport – Thursday 20 August ✓
Darwin – Tuesday 25 August ✓