The Tax Ombudsman is undertaking a review of the Australian Taxation Office’s (ATO) decision making in relation to the general interest charges (GIC) on tax debts. In particular, the watchdog is reviewing where the ATO agrees (or does not agree) to requests for the interest to be reduced or removed (remitted) when taxpayers are seeking to pay their debts.

The Tax Ombudsman will examine whether the ATO’s GIC decisions are:

  • consistent with the law
  • meeting community expectations
  • meeting the principles of good tax administration, and
  • supporting taxpayers with empathy and respect.

Submissions are open until 5pm (AEDT) Friday, 10 October 2025. The review report is expected to be published in early 2026.

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