The director penalty regime ensures that directors are personally liable for certain debts of the company if
the debts are not actively managed. The liability applies to both current and former directors.
To recover this debt, the ATO will issue a director penalty notice to the individual directors. The ATO can then take action to recover the
unpaid amount, including:
These letters are a warning shot and should not be ignored.
IN SOME CASES
In some cases it is possible for the penalty to be remitted but this depends on when the PAYG, GST or SGC amounts are reported to the ATO. For example, in some cases the penalty can be remitted if an administrator or small business restructuring practitioner is appointed to the company, or the company begins to be wound up. However, this is normally only possible for PAYG and GST amounts if they are reported to the ATO within 3 months of the due date. For SGC amounts this is only possible if the unpaid amount is reported by the due date of the SGC statement.
If the unpaid amounts are not reported to the ATO by the relevant deadline then the only way for the penalty to be remitted is for the debt to be paid in full. Winding up the company at this stage will not make the liability of the directors go away.
If you have received a warning letter from the ATO or a director penalty notice then please contact us immediately.
Lunch & Learn Workshop // 4 September, 2026 - 12:00 - 1:30pm
$35pp includes lunch
Many business owners believe growth comes from more sales. But in reality, the strongest and most profitable
businesses grow by improving how the business works, not just by selling more. This session is designed to change that. The
5-Critical Financial Metrics
is a practical workshop that shows you where small, targeted changes can create disproportionately big improvements in profit, cashflow and
sustainability.
Lunch & Learn Workshop // 26 June, 2026 - 12:00 - 1:30pm
$35pp includes lunch
This session is designed to change that. Pricing, Profit &
Your Ideal Client
is a practical workshop that helps you understand where your
profit really comes from,
how pricing decisions affect margins, and why working with clients that align with your business makes a measurable difference to both
profit and cashflow.
Lunch & Learn Workshop // 27 March, 2026 - 12:00 - 1:30pm
$35pp includes lunch
Many business owners are surprised to learn that most businesses don’t fail because they’re unprofitable - they fail because they run
out of cash. This session is designed to change that. Cashflow Essentials is a
practical workshop that shows you how cash really moves through your business, why cash pressure happens, and how to stay in control
- even while you’re growing.
Excellence in Inclusivity and Accessibility recognises businesses for their leadership in creating welcoming, inclusive spaces and ensuring accessibility for all. In this episode, the award-winnings share how inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do - it’s a smart business move.
The Local Community Connection Award recognises businesses with a commitment to strengthening the Mornington Peninsula community through networks, partnerships and social contributions. This episode features the award-winners as they share practical strategies, proven approaches, and inspiring stories that show how community connection isn’t just good for people - it’s sound business practice.
