More Support for Vulnerable Taxpayers
Expanded National Tax Clinic program assists record number of Australians unable to afford professional tax advice.
Cost of living
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The Albanese Labor Government's expanded National Tax Clinic program helped a record number of vulnerable Australians in 2024, with 6,533 individuals and small businesses receiving assistance. The latest annual report shows significant increases following the government's 2023 Budget boost to the program.
Tax clinics assisted 6,533 vulnerable individuals and small businesses in 2024, a 24 per cent increase from 2023. The university-based and TAFE-based clinics completed 7,909 lodgements (a 24 per cent increase) and provided 2,878 taxpayers with advice and support, including those in dispute with the ATO (a 20 per cent increase). The clinics provide free tax assistance to people who cannot afford professional advice due to economic, social or personal circumstances.
The government provided a major boost to the program in the 2023 Budget, with funding for five new clinics opening in January 2025, support for outreach to Indigenous and remote communities, and dedicated funding to assist Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) workers with tax and superannuation matters. The PALM worker program, funded through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, is expected to reach approximately 500 individual workers by the end of 2025.
Tax clinics serve diverse vulnerable populations, including victims of financial abuse left with substantial tax debts, individuals with brain injuries requiring patient support, and victims of identity theft where false ABNs were registered in their names. The clinics also provide valuable learning opportunities for students undertaking tax-related courses, with students reporting the experience taught them about empathy and making a genuine impact through their work.
6,533 vulnerable individuals and small businesses assisted in 2024, a 24 per cent increase from 2023
7,909 tax lodgements completed and 2,878 taxpayers received advice and dispute support with the ATO
Five new clinics opened in January 2025, plus dedicated programs for PALM workers and Indigenous communities
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