In Australia, a multi-tiered sales tax known as the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is imposed by the Federal Government. Established on 1 July 2000 by the Howard Liberal administration, this 10% tax applies to the majority of goods and services offered by GST-registered businesses.

Exceptions to GST

While most items are subjected to the GST, there are certain exceptions. For instance, key food items, specific medical and educational services, and exports are typically GST-free. Additionally, other categories like residential accommodation and financial services fall under the input-taxed bracket. Certain government-related charges are either exempt from the GST or lie outside its purview.

Revenue Distribution

Funds generated from this tax are channeled to the individual states within Australia. It's notable that while the federal government imposes the GST, state governments do not have a separate sales tax. They do, however, impose duties on certain transactions, such as stamp duties.

Implications for Businesses

Essentially, if a business is GST-registered, a 10% GST rate should be incorporated into the price of most goods and services they sell. Concurrently, these businesses can offset this by claiming GST credits on their operational expenses. The net GST amount— which is the difference between the GST charged on sales and GST credits— needs to be remitted to the Tax Office at regular intervals.

Special Cases:

• Businesses selling GST-free items won't be liable for GST on these sales, but they can claim GST credits.
• For businesses trading in input taxed goods or services, while they aren't required to charge GST on these sales, they can't claim GST credits on the input purchases.