Australia's Future Tax System The Prospects After Henry

The Review of Australia's Future Tax System, led by the Secretary to the Treasury Ken Henry and undertaken in 2008 and 2009, was a major and unique event in the context of taxation policy in Australia. It has already - indirectly and inadvertently - contributed to the downfall of at least one Prime Minister in 2010 through its ill-fated proposal for a minerals resources rent tax. But its implications go well beyond short term politics. It promises to have significant influence on the course of tax reform and the shape of Australian society over the years ahead. Its vision projects well into the middle years of the twenty first century. This volume brings together the thoughts of leading tax economists and other specialists from Australia and around the world on the future prospects for the Australian tax system based upon a "warts and all" review of the Review from a variety of perspectives. In a wide-ranging analysis it highlights the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead, lays bare some of the shortcomings of the Review, identifies real strengths, compares the process of tax reform in Australia with developments in other countries, and explores the likely implications of the proposals set out in the Review for the equity, efficiency and simplicity of the Australian tax system. All those interested in an understanding of the Australian tax system and its future prospects will find this a stimulating and rewarding read.