I am absolutely delighted that the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has decided to maintain its presence in Geelong.
The ATO’s commitment to a vibrant and viable future in Geelong is wonderful news. This is a big win not just for the ATO’s local workforce but for the entire Geelong community.
I am very pleased to have helped lead the community fight against the closure of the Geelong ATO office.
Following an internal review, I thank the Commissioner of Taxation for recognising the importance of the ATO’s continuing presence in Geelong.
While I recognise this was an operational matter, I fought extremely hard to ensure this closure did not proceed. I made numerous strong representations to the Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer as well as to the ATO Commissioner and his team.
I also thank the many ATO Geelong staff who wrote to me for their advocacy, as well as key stakeholders such as the Committee for Geelong, the City of Greater Geelong and G21.
The ATO office has been a vital part of Geelong’s social and economic fabric for more than 50 years. Losing these jobs from Geelong would not only have meant upheaval for staff but caused damage to our local economy.
For the ATO to close its Geelong office during a pandemic would have been particularly distressing. There has never been a more important time to invest in regional communities.
Geelong ATO staff are playing a vital role in assisting Australians with their ATO matters at this very difficult time, including with the efficient delivery of new programs such as JobKeeper.
I look forward to providing Geelong ATO staff with any support they need with their aspirations for the future.
Since I was first elected in 2013, I have fought very hard for local jobs on behalf of the Liberal National Government. Each and every day, I am honoured to stand up and fight for regional communities as a Liberal Senator for Victoria.
17 August 2020