Hunter and Central Coast GP clinics could benefit with the NSW Government announcing it will pause payroll tax audits for 12 months.
There will also be a 12 month pause on tax penalties and interest accrued on outstanding payroll tax debts incurred before and at the commencement of the 12-month period.
The move will ensure practices can continue to serve their community and will allow for ongoing consultation with GPs, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and Australian Medical Association to find a long-term solution.
Minister for the Hunter and Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley and Minister for the Central Coast and Member for Wyong David Harris welcomed the plan which was announced by Minister for Finance Courtney Houssos.
They said local practices are already face rising costs due to the former Federal Liberal Government’s decision to freeze rebates, with the NSW Government acknowledging further cost pressures could put pressure on GPs and already-stretched hospital emergency departments.
“Many of our GP practices are small, family-run businesses and our area already has one of the lowest bulk-billing rates in the state,” Catley said.
“This is an important announcement for local clinics and patients.
“Everyone knows there’s a crisis in retaining GPs in regional areas.
“This will help doctors in our region.”
Harris said the move was a win for the Coast.
“We can’t afford to lose our essential services and we can’t afford extra pressure on our hospital system,” he said.
“I know our community relies on affordable and accessible healthcare, that’s why rebuilding and restoring our essential services is a priority for this government.”
The pause to payroll tax audits will be implemented through an amendment to the Revenue, Fines and Other Legislation Bill.
Source:
NSW Government