New tax measures to support businesses

Published on 21 March 2020

The Victorian Government has announced a range of tax measures to support businesses through Victoria’s State of Emergency, as part of a broader economic survival package to support business and jobs in response to coronavirus (COVID-19). 

Payroll tax waived

Businesses with annual taxable wages up to $3 million will have their payroll tax for the 2019-20 financial year waived.

Eligible businesses must continue to lodge returns but do not need to make further payments for this financial year.

The State Revenue Office will directly contact eligible businesses in relation to reimbursement for payroll tax already paid in the financial year.

These businesses can also defer paying payroll tax for the first quarter of the 2020-21 financial year.

More information about the administration of these relief measures will be sent directly to eligible businesses.

Liquor licence fees waived

Businesses that have paid for a renewable liquor licence for 2020 will be reimbursed their licence fee and those yet to pay will have the fee waived.

The State Revenue Office will administer the reimbursement, regardless of whether the licence fee was paid to it or the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation.

Land tax deferral

Land owners due to pay 2020 land tax that have at least one non-residential property and total taxable landholdings below $1 million have the option of deferring their 2020 land tax payment until 31 March 2021.

The State Revenue Office will contact all taxpayers who are eligible for this deferral.

Businesses across the state can now access information on dealing with coronavirus by calling the Business Victoria hotline on 13 22 15.

Australian Government measures

The Australian Government has also announced an economic response to coronavirus, including initiatives to assist individuals and households, businesses, and to support the flow of credit.