ATO Fuel Response Plan – What you need to know

Rising fuel prices continue to place pressure on many Australian businesses — particularly those reliant on transport, logistics and supply chains. In response, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has introduced a targeted payment plan initiative to support eligible businesses struggling to meet their tax obligations due to these increased costs.

Who is eligible?

To access this support, businesses must hold an ABN and be able to demonstrate that:

• Increased operating costs are directly or indirectly linked to high fuel prices

• They have a tax debt (new or existing) that they are currently unable to service

• Their reduced capacity to pay is specifically due to fuel costs — not a broader downturn in business activity

• All lodgments will be brought up to date within three months of the payment plan commencing

What support is available?

Approved applicants may benefit from a structured and manageable payment arrangement, including:

• No upfront payment required

• 36 equal monthly instalments spread over three years

• General Interest Charge (GIC) remission from the date of application through to the third instalment — provided the first three payments are made on time and lodgments are up to date

How to apply

Applications can be lodged via the ATO’s Online services for business, ATO Fuel Response or through your registered tax or BAS agent with your written authority.

What this means for your business

If your business operates in a fuel-sensitive industry and rising fuel costs have impacted your cash flow, this initiative may provide valuable breathing room. However, eligibility criteria are specific, and timely action is important — applications close 30 June 2026.

If you think this may apply to you, we encourage you to reach out to our team to assess your eligibility and assist with the application process.