1. The main purpose of taxation is to raise revenue for the services and income supports the community needs. Public revenues should be adequate for that purpose.2. Tax should, as far as possible, be levied equitably, according to ability to pay.The level of income and assets available to an individual are the best measure of...

Background Since the mid-1980s, Australian tax reforms have been aimed mainly at increasing tax neutrality through base broadening and rate reductions. In addition, improved operational efficiency and system integrity were sought through improve ments in tax legislation, administration and compliance.

This paper offers four broad objections to the Henry Tax Review from a classical liberal perspective. The public release of Australia’s Future Tax System—known as the Henry review—in May 2010 sparked an ongoing debate in Australia about the structure and efficiency of the country’s tax system. The review recommended substantial reforms be made to state...

This discussion paper outlines the Government's plan for Australian tax reform, presented at the October 2011 Tax Forum. The Government has embarked on an ambitious tax reform agenda to reward hard work and boost participation, to support families and the disadvantaged, and to address the demands of the mining boom. But there is more to...

The Henry Tax Review report spelt out a series of tax reforms that would increase environmental and social sustainability. The author argues it’s great ammunition for a debate that needs a fresh start.