The TPB has released a media release stating that the Federal Court, following the TPB’s application, has ordered an unregistered tax agent to stop preparing and lodging income tax returns while not a registered tax agent with the TPB. The unregistered tax agent is alleged to have illegally charged clients fees to lodge returns on their behalf. [LTN 169, 2/9/21]
On 23 August 2021, following an application from the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB), Justice McKerracher of the Federal Court ordered Jessa Van Stroe (also known as Jessa Layola) to stop preparing and lodging income tax returns while not a registered tax agent with the TPB.
The TPB provided evidence from a number of taxpayers that indicated Ms Van Stroe illegally charged clients fees to lodge returns on their behalf. If Ms Van Stroe does not stop providing these services, she may face fines, imprisonment, and even seizure of property for contempt of court. The proceeding against Ms Van Stroe continues, and this order will remain in place until the TPB’s application for penalties is heard. [Media Release]