The Australian Taxation Office on Monday asked for community consultation on a ‘digital by default’ initiative aimed at improving the way taxpayers interact with the organisation.
Deputy commissioner, Michelle Crosby, said the initiative will require most taxpayers to use ATO digital services to send and receive information and payments, except where they do not have the ability to do so.
The ATO has released a consultation paper and is seeking feedback from all sections of the community, Crosby said.
Read: Tax office CIO outlines plan for delivering 'digital by default'
“We want to make we have a fully-rounded understanding of the support needed to transition to digital services, the approach we take for those who cannot use digital services, and any concerns people might have,” she said.
Crosby said there were benefits to a digital approach, such as improved access to information at convenient times on the device or software of choice and faster turnaround times.
However, the ATO realised that it may be a big change for people who rely on paper.
“The ATO-led initiative will require people still using paper products to switch to ATO digital services. We’ll be providing time and support for those who need help to make the shift from paper to digital,” Crosby said.
She said there would be some instances where it would not be possible for some people to use digital services and the ATO would ensure alternative services would be available to this small group.
Citizens can provide feedback up until January 15, 2016.
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