Topic Tax reform remains an ongoing topic of debate in Australia. On 9 May 2017 the Honorable Kelly O’Dwyer MP, Minister for Revenue and Financial Services, released the interim report of the Black Economy Taskforce. The report, and related links, can be accessed through the Treasury (treasury.gov.au) website. It is stated on page 1 of the Executive Summary of the Black Economy Taskforce Interim Report “The black economy is a significant, complex and growing economic and social problem. Black economy activities: undermine the community’s trust in the tax system; create an unfair commercial environment which penalises businesses and individuals doing the right thing; enable and entrench the exploitation of vulnerable workers; undermine tax revenue; and enable abuse of the welfare system.” Also included in the Executive Summary is a recognition that, amongst other things, increasing use of new business models such as the sharing economy are contributing to the problem of the black economy. Task A. Explain what is meant by the terms ‘the black economy’; and ‘the sharing economy’ (10+10 marks) B. Identify a business operating in Australia under a ‘sharing economy’ business model – and one operating under a more traditional business model. Both businesses must operate in the same industry (e.g. accommodation services) and must operate in Australia (although they may also operate in other countries). Research and describe the two businesses you have chosen; describing their business structures and how they operate. Identify key differences between them that may affect taxation outcomes. Explain the tax consequences of these differences under existing Australian tax law. (60 marks) C. Read the Black Economy Taskforce Interim Report – published by the Australian Treasury. Which of the identified proposals or initiatives do you think would be successful in reducing the contribution of the sharing economy to the problem of the black economy? Give reasons for your response. (20 marks) Hint – focus on pages 32-34, 37, 46-47