The Federal Government is supporting the Australian economy through the current pandemic, providing broad relief through a variety of stimulus and economic support measures.
Above and beyond this, Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA) is continuing to advocate for the extension of financial relief measures to support members – refer HERE
IMPORT DUTY
While the Government has not announced a specific relief measure in relation to Import Duty, the Department of Home Affairs has advised FTA / APSA that they may consider modification of payment terms and conditions (payment plans and deferrals) where an entity is experiencing financial hardship.
"This entity would need to propose a payment plan or deferral and provide financial statements for at least the current financial year to date and the previous financial year.
Other documentation and additional information may also be required to support any application which must be provided in order to make an assessment.
Whilst any payment plan is being assessed, that entity will be expected to comply with the proposed payment plan and ensure that all other ongoing payments are kept up to date. Each entity will be assessed based upon their individual circumstances, but must be able to demonstrate financial hardship.
The Department may consider any proposed payment plan but does not guarantee acceptance."
If specific circumstances require consideration, importers should contact the Revenue Management Section at Home Affairs at revenue@homeaffairs.gov.au
AGRICULTURE FEES
At last weeks' Department of Agriculture Cargo Consultative Committee (DCCC) meeting, industry representatives were given a briefing on the department's cost recovery performance and outstanding debts.
The department appreciates the difficult financial position facing many sectors of industry and will assess requests for appropriate payment plans on a 'case by case' basis. Members looking to request a variation to normal payment arrangements should contact the department at ARhelpdesk@awe.gov.au or call 1800 647 531. |
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