Posted by Reen [Maureen] on November 08, 1999 at 12:54:19 {Nq8EnQ8RVAGyVFW8x0fwj33WEKyZD.}:
In Reply to: ***Lit now free in Australia posted by J.H. on November 07, 1999 at 09:58:42:
Hi JH,
The Goods and Services Tax does not come into effect until July 2000. The Australian branch have to register with the Australian Taxation Office as an entity or enterprise. That means, every month or every quarter, they have to report ALL income and outgoings and pay 10% GST on all items goods and services sold.
But, yes, I agree with others, the society will use the donation system as of 1st Jan. 2000 in readiness for the GST - that is, JWs will "give away" their literature if a householder does not want to give a donation. Up front, the literature is already paid for by the JW isn't it. If the JW doesn't put enough money in the coffers - the congregation of JWs have to make up the shortfall to pay Brooklyn - so nothing is free! Brooklyn heirarchy are still receiving their money.
Thanks for the congrats. I stayed up and watched the rugby match - not a terribly exciting one, as those Frenchies played a little dirty. Tough game though. Looks like Tim Horan will be retiring, I guess it's a good way to go out on high.
And yes, we do keep Her Majesty!! I would guess not for many more years though. Australia must become a republic one day.
We know the cricket has started - it's raining... LOL. Cricket being my favourite game.