29 Nov 2016
The Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) report into the collection of North West Shelf royalty revenue has made no findings or recommendations suggesting the project’s participants had any intention to falsely claim deductions.
“Any attempt to suggest otherwise is either a misreading of the report or a deliberate misrepresentation of the facts,” said APPEA Chief Executive Dr Malcolm Roberts.
“Indeed, the report highlights instances where deductions have been under-claimed.
“The audit’s focus was to assess whether the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science (DIIS) has effectively and efficiently administered the collection of NWS royalty revenue.
“These collections are undertaken on its behalf by the WA Department of Mines and Petroleum (DMP), with the state receiving a significant share of royalty income from the project.
“It is also clear in its response to the report that the DMP is concerned that it was not adequately consulted in the preparation of the report, and considers its royalty revenue verification processes to be both robust and adequate.
“It is important that all tax collections – whether at the national, state or local government level – be undertaken on a transparent and efficient basis, reflecting the risks associated with the relevant activity. The industry will continue to work with all governments to achieve that outcome.”
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