The OECD has renewed its call for Australia to broaden and potentially raise the GST to improve fiscal sustainability. It recommends expanding the tax base and considering a rate increase above the current 10%, possibly up to 15% if paired with income‑tax cuts, and estimates a 1.6% boost to output over ten years. The recommendation comes ahead of the May federal budget and follows a mid‑year budget update that confirmed persistent deficits.
It suggests broadening the GST base and considering raising the rate above the current 10%, potentially up to around 15% if paired with income‑tax cuts.
It was published ahead of Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ fifth federal budget in May 2026.
It confirmed that deficits are forecast to persist across much of the next decade.
It estimates that doing so could raise Australia’s economic output by about 1.6% over a ten‑year horizon.
Get VAT and indirect tax news delivered to your inbox twice a week.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Australian Financial Review · 25 days ago
The article argues that Australia should increase its GST rate and broaden the tax base to reduce reliance on income tax, following the OECD’s latest health check recommendation.
The Guardian · about 1 month ago
The OECD’s economic survey of Australia urges the Albanese government to broaden the GST and consider raising the rate above 10%, using the proceeds to reduce reliance on personal income tax. It also recommends replacing stamp duties with a land tax and boosting social housing funding. The report estimates the reform would add 1.6% to Australia’s GDP over a decade.
Stripe · about 2 months ago
This guide explains Australia's e-invoicing landscape, including the Peppol network, current compliance requirements, and projected market growth. It highlights that while private businesses are not yet mandated to use e-invoicing, government entities must, with deadlines set for 2026, and outlines funding and efficiency gains. The article also details the standard format and benefits such as faster payments and reduced errors.
EEA Advisory · 2 months ago
The ATO is moving non-compliant small businesses from quarterly to monthly GST reporting from April 2025, while mandating Peppol e-invoice acceptance for businesses already exchanging e-invoices by July 2025.
VatCalc · 1 day ago
From 23 August 2026, non‑resident providers of digital services to Azerbaijani consumers must register with the tax administration and charge 18% VAT, replacing the previous withholding‑tax regime. The VAT registration threshold is AZN 17,000 per annum, and the current VAT rate of 18% applies to all domestically supplied digital services. Implementation guidance and FAQs are expected before the August deadline.
PV Tech · 1 day ago
China has removed the 9% export VAT rebate on PV modules, marking a shift from price‑led subsidies to value‑based competition. The change is expected to raise costs for manufacturers and influence module pricing across markets. The policy reflects industry maturity and a focus on quality, efficiency, and long‑term bankability.
