The ATO know that most people are responsible and try to do the right thing in meeting their tax obligations. They understand the importance of paying tax and the role it plays in providing essential services to our community.

However, there are some people and businesses that deliberately do the wrong thing, by misleading and taking advantage of others, or by misreporting their business activities and income.

Serious consequences for those behaving in this way include penalties, criminal convictions, fines, and prison sentences. Other impacts include unwanted media attention, damaged reputation, a bad credit rating, loss of trust, and damaged relationships with customers, friends, and family.

Read more about one of the ATO's largest GST fraud investigations and the outcome for some of those caught doing the wrong thing.