I’m very pleased to report that Tax Time 2023 was a success. Although it had its own unique challenges, feedback from the DSP community has been overwhelmingly positive. We had 96% of DSP products ready for Tax Time 2023 PLS services for Individual and Non-Individual lodgments, and overall, you reported improved processes and fewer issues identified compared to previous tax time periods.
I’d also like to call out some of our other recent achievements. We delivered our first service, the Stapled super fund API, on the API Portal. Additionally, we took an important step towards removing duplication and decommissioned the product register on the SBR website, and now have just the one product register on the Software developers website.
Together we’ve made amazing progress in the Single Touch Payroll (STP) space. As of 10 September, there are over 887,000 (97%) employers reporting Phase 2 data for over 13.2 million (94%) individuals. 95% of DSP products expected to build for STP Phase 2 have been whitelisted for production.
Earlier this month I delivered the opening address for the annual Services for Tax Practitioners event. I hope those of you that attended found it informative, engaging and enjoyed the opportunity to connect with not only ATO staff but other DSPs as well. Many of the measures we spoke about are still in their early design stages, but this event is just one of the ways we want to demonstrate our commitment to bringing you visibility and using your insights to inform decision-making.
Most of you would have seen the announcement late last month on the cessation of the Modernising Business Registers (MBR) program following the independent review that was completed in July. It will take time to work through the full implications, but I would like to personally acknowledge and thank all who have contributed to the program for their valuable time and efforts. Despite this outcome I’m proud of the work that has been done and remain confident in the way we partner together to co-create services and solutions for the community.
I appreciate your openness in providing feedback to us and encourage you all to keep doing so. By working collaboratively, we can continue to deliver key priorities and meet the changing needs of the Australian community. I look forward to our continued partnership for the remainder of 2023 and into 2024.
Elly Stinchcombe
Assistant Commissioner
Digital Partnership Office
Australian Taxation Office