The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) on Thursday revealed non-lodgment prosecutions against "dodgy shadow economy operators" had risen by 80 per cent over the past two years, as it said those who broke the rules would be held accountable.
In the 2025-26 financial year, Queensland accounted for 28 per cent of non-lodgment prosecutions, followed by Western Australia and NSW.
Of the prosecutions, more than 305 resulted in convictions, representing a nearly 60 per cent increase from 2024–25 and 2025–26 financial years.
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Summarized version
In the 2025-26 financial year, Queensland accounted for 28 per cent of non-lodgment prosecutions, followed by Western Australia and NSW.
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The article, shortened and in plain language
Hundreds of people and businesses have been prosecuted for tax offences, with millions of dollars in fines handed down as authorities crack down on the shadow economy.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) on Thursday revealed non-lodgment prosecutions against "dodgy shadow economy operators" had risen by 80 per cent over the past two years, as it said those who broke the rules would be held accountable.
The ATO said more than 350 people or businesses had been successfully prosecuted in the past two years, resulting in more than $2.7 million in fines.
In the 2025-26 financial year, Queensland accounted for 28 per cent of non-lodgment prosecutions, followed by Western Australia and NSW.
ATO assistant commissioner Tony Goding said avoiding tax and super obligations was seen by some as a victimless crime, but came at a cost to the community.
Of the prosecutions, more than 305 resulted in convictions, representing a nearly 60 per cent increase from 2024–25 and 2025–26 financial years.
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