In the latest speaker profile in our series, we sit down with Paul Sokolowski from Arnold Bloch Leibler who is presenting the Penalty Provisions session at the upcoming 29th National Convention in Hobart.
Tell us about yourself
I am a Partner of Arnold Bloch Leibler and the practice leader of the firm’s taxation practice. I provide strategic and technical advice to a diverse range of Australian and international clients, with an emphasis on significant and complex audits, disputes and litigation.
How long have you been affiliated with The Tax Institute?
I have been affiliated with The Tax Institute for 15 years now.
What does National Convention mean to you, and more broadly, to the tax industry?
The National Convention provides opportunity to learn about, and discuss, topical technical and administrative tax issues. Importantly, it provides the opportunity to catch up with old, and meet new, professional colleagues from around the country.
What is the topic that you are presenting at the 29th National Convention?
I will be presenting the administrative penalty regime session.
What can attendees expect to learn from your session?
Attendees of my session can learn about:
- the different administrative penalties that can be imposed and how the ATO apply them
- the different standards relating to “reasonable care” and reasonably arguable positions and the timing of advice
- safe harbour – practical limitations, and
- issues associated with requests for remission.
What new or hot topics will you cover?
I will be covering recent court and Tribunal decisions affecting our understanding of the imposition of penalties.
How will attending your session help delegates help their clients?
Understanding these provisions will assist practitioners in better informing their clients of the risks associated with certain behaviour and, importantly, may affect the way and manner in which any tax advice is provided to clients.
Which other sessions at the conference are you most interested in attending?
I am looking forward to the sessions on:
- Division 7A – Choice of Entity and Restructuring for SME Clients
- Trusts – State of Play
- Restructuring – Avoiding Harm’s Way
What do you like to do when you’re not knee-deep in tax?
I enjoy spending time with my family, reading and watching movies (particularly from the 60's and 70's).
You’re invited to join us in Hobart for the 29th National Convention 26-28 March 2014. The Tax Institute’s National Convention is widely recognised as the essential annual event for tax professionals. But hurry! Advanced pricing ends this Friday!
Find out more about the conference and register now.
