TPB cracks down on unregistered Darwin tax practice

The Tax Shop had also been found to have unlawfully accessed and altered ATO taxpayer records without authorisation and failed to account for client refunds held on trust.

Peter de Cure, TPB chair, said despite the termination, the TPB continued to receive community reports indicating The Tax Shop and Fong had continued to provide tax agent services while unregistered.

“In response, the TPB has issued a cease-to-desist notice to both The Tax Shop and Mr Fong requiring them to stop providing tax agent services,” he said.

“The TPB also interviewed and commenced an investigation into a number of registered tax agents suspected of facilitating unregistered preparer activities.”

De Cure reminded the community that registered tax practitioners who enabled unregistered individuals to provide tax agent advice services also risked serious sanctions.

“The TPB reminds all tax practitioners of their obligation to maintain appropriate supervision and control over their practice,” de Cure said.

“We take allegations of unregistered tax agent services very seriously. Matters like these undermine public confidence in the tax profession and pose a risk to vulnerable Australians. Our action sends a clear message, the TPB will not hesitate to intervene when public trust and consumer protection is at stake.”

The TPB said this enforcement action reflected its ongoing commitment to protecting consumers and upholding the integrity of Australia’s tax system.

“The TPB continues to prioritise action against unregistered preparers and advisers as part of its ongoing compliance focus and urges the public to verify the registration status of their tax practitioner via their Register.”

“If concerns remain, contact the TPB directly to report suspected unregistered activity.”