EMRS Polling Confirms Need for State Tax Review

www.tas.greens.org.au
The Tasmanian Greens today weighed into the land tax debate by calling for an extension of the appeal period relating to re-evaluation of land, saying that many people and small businesses are shocked to discover that they cannot appeal any increase in their land tax bill that is based upon property re-evaluation.

Greens Leader and Treasury spokesperson Nick McKim MP that while comprehensive and long term structural reform of the state’s taxation base is needed, action should be taken now in some areas which would assist those struggling under the land tax burden, without impacting on critical service delivery.

“Property owners currently have the right to appeal when re-evaluation of their property occurs , but many are not aware of the implications of their re-evaluation until they receive their land tax bill, by which time it is too late,” Mr McKim said.

“The Greens are proposing that the property re-evaluation appeal rights be extended up to 60 days from receipt of the land tax bill rather than from receipt of their re-evaluation.”

“This is about making the process as fair as possible, and understanding the difficulty faced by many families and small business owners facing massive increases in land tax.”

“People’s rates are also based on property valuation, so it is important that this process is as fair and as equitable as possible.”

“Many people are unaware of the valuation and appeal process. The arrival of their land tax bill serves as both a valuation update and also the trigger for some to seek an appeal mechanism, only to discover that door had closed on them without their understanding or knowledge.”

Mr McKim also said that the EMRS polling data released by TasCOSS today reinforced reiterated the need for the Greens’ call for a full review of Tasmania’s taxation system to be commissioned, with the aim of reducing or eliminating taxes on positives such as jobs and investment, and instead generating revenue by taxing things that are negatives, like pollution.

“The Greens are committed to delivering a fairer and contemporary tax base for individuals and businesses, better outcomes for people, and improved service delivery across critical areas including health, education, and public housing.”
Nick McKim MP Greens Leader and Treasury spokesperson