The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service is working on changing the public’s perception towards tax collection.

Director Corporate Services, Fazrul Rahman says many tax payers view the Revenue and Customs as being out to get those who are non-compliant.

Rahman says they are working on changing this by enforcing more engagements with the tax paying community.

He adds the launching of the Compliance Strategic Document is one of the measures introduced.

“The document that was launched by FRCS has clearly stated the steps and approach that they will take for tax collection. FRCS has categorized tax payers into four streams ranging from those who need help with education and awareness on tax payments and then there are those small group of people who based on our evidence are determined to evade and avoid at any cost.”

Rahman says the new Income Tax Act empowers tax payers by giving them the right to object.

He adds the Act also ensures that tax payers are not dealt with any heavy handedness by the Revenue and Customs.