The ATO has provided a novel, though important, reason for businesses to update their ABN details: to help businesses to manage the coming disaster season.

ABN details are used by emergency services and government agencies to help identify and contact businesses during times of emergency and potential disaster.

The Australian Business Registrar (ABR) utilises ABR data to help and provide support for their communities, the environment, infrastructure and the economy during times of disaster.

Read some case studies here about how ABR data has been used in previous disasters.

Therefore, to make sure businesses don’t miss out on receiving important information, the ATO asks that businesses update their ABN details, including:

• authorised contacts
• postal address
• physical location
• email and
• phone number

Also, if a taxpayer is no longer in business, the ATO asks they cancel their ABN so they aren’t contacted unnecessarily. This can be done online and takes effect immediately.

To update or cancel your ABN details, visit the ABR’s website here.