Tax Law
Considered tax planning begins well before the assessment arrives.
Australia's tax system is characterised by a sophisticated and evolving legal framework that requires strict compliance while offering avenues for strategic planning. Harvard Legal advises corporations, domestic enterprises, high-net-worth individuals and not-for-profit organisations on that framework.
The landscape is further complicated by international treaties, transfer pricing regulation and anti-avoidance provisions. Continuing legislative reform, including changes driven by the OECD's Base Erosion and Profit Shifting initiatives, has increased the complexity of both compliance and planning.
Core tax services
- Tax advisory and planning
- We provide tailored strategies aligned with commercial objectives, analysing a client's financial and operational structure to identify efficiencies through transaction structuring, available incentives and corporate arrangements. For international clients this includes transfer pricing, double tax treaties and global compliance requirements; for individuals and families it includes estate and succession planning.
- Tax dispute resolution and litigation
- We represent clients during audits, objections and litigation initiated by the ATO, emphasising early intervention, strategic negotiation and, where required, advocacy in courts and tribunals supported by detailed legal analysis and statutory interpretation.
- Compliance and due diligence
- We assist with the timely and accurate lodgement of returns, GST reporting and FBT obligations, and conduct internal reviews and due diligence for mergers, acquisitions and restructures to identify potential liabilities in advance.
- International and cross-border taxation
- We advise on the tax implications of international operations, including transfer pricing, repatriation of profits, structuring foreign investment and compliance with Australia's treaties and OECD standards.
Our approach
- Holistic analysis: integrating legal, financial and operational factors when developing a solution.
- Proactive planning: advising on emerging legislative trends so risks are addressed before they materialise.
- Customised solutions: strategies aligned to each client's specific objectives, whether compliance, structuring or dispute resolution.
- Regulatory foresight: monitoring legislative amendments and judicial decisions so clients are prepared for change.
Frequently asked questions
Can you assist with an ATO audit or review?
Yes. We assist clients through audits, objections and, where necessary, litigation, and we engage with the ATO and Revenue NSW on their behalf. Early advice generally improves the options available.
Do you advise on cross-border tax matters?
Yes. We advise on transfer pricing, double tax treaties, repatriation of profits and the structuring of foreign investment consistent with Australian law and OECD standards.
Discuss your matter with Harvard Legal.
We will explain your options, the process ahead and how we can assist.