The first to take delivery of the program were the members of the Port Vila Community Handicraft at the Colardeau area. The initiative, to an extent, coincides with the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) Ambassadors Program which was launched earlier this year.
Unlike what has been the practice in the past, this year, Inland Revenue has decided to make its presence felt by having its officers visit the various industry association members in person.
The aim of the awareness program is to foster closer working relationship with all the mamas in the trade so to improve voluntary compliance. It was evident that when the mamas understand their tax obligations, they comply on time, and as a result avoid unnecessary penalty charges.
Apart from providing the mamas with first hand information about their tax obligations, the awareness team also took the opportunity to relay in brief the benefits that citizens and residents alike get from the taxes they pay to the Government. It was apparent people always have negative views when it comes to taxes, but without realizing the benefits they or their families/friends are getting through various government services every day.
However, despite some concerns that the mamas have highlighted, which the team had noted for referrals to appropriate authorities, the outcome of the awareness in the end was hailed a success. The team will continue with the program with the remaining handicraft associations in the coming days.
Other industry associations with links to the tourism industry will also be provided the same awareness, but likely early next year, 2015. However, apart from the tourism businesses, awareness targeting businesses involving sale of kava and food within the Port Vila municipality will instead be carried out in partnership with the Port Vila Municipal Council and the Department of Health.
For more information please contact the Rates and Taxes Office by phone: 00678 24969 (Port Vila), 00678 36386 (Santo), 00678 66784 (Lenakel) or visit us at our Office in Carnot Street, Port Vila or at Millennium Building in Luganville or Commercial Center Building in Lenakel.
