Howard buys into Tax Office Dispute

Date: 06 May 2000

The Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) has welcomed the Prime Minister's acknowledgment that tax officers are doing a tremendous job to implement the tax new system.

John Howard said of ATO staff on ABC Radio today, "The government knows that you are under a great deal of strain because it's a big, new system [and] I thank you very warmly for the work that you have done,"

The PM also acknowledged that ATO staff are introducing the biggest economic and tax change in this country's history. He then went on to ask tax officers not to engage in industrial action next week in support of their wage claim.

However Shane O'Connell, Secretary of the CPSU Tax Section, says Howard government budget reductions, which lead to staff cuts of 3500 over the last four years, have not helped the ATO get ready for the new system.

"We call on the government to ensure there is adequate funding for the ATO so a more realistic pay offer can be made to staff.

"If the government helps improve the offer, the ATO will be able to recruit and retain the right people and ensure that the government's reform agenda is delivered.

"They are spending untold millions on advertising the GST, how about some consideration for the
staff actually delivering it?"

Despite the Prime Minister's kind words, it appears certain ATO staff will impose work bans and stoppages from Tuesday next in support of their 8% pay claim, unless the ATO improves their offer to the CPSU. It is anticipated that this action will effect the implementation of the GST and ABN registrations.

For Comment
Tax Section Secretary
Shane O'Connell
0418 304 953 pager 016 372 348

Tax Section Assistant Secretary
Michael Tull
0418 557 380 pager 016 372 348

For further information

Contact:	Dermott Browne
Union:	CPSU - National Office
Phone:	93349200

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