Australia consults on adopting OECD crypto reporting framework

As a seasoned researcher with a keen interest in the intersection of technology and finance, I find Australia’s decision to adopt the OECD’s Crypto Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) an exciting development. Having followed the global trend towards increased regulation of cryptocurrencies, it is refreshing to see more countries taking a proactive stance against tax evasion using digital assets.


Australia has put forth a discussion document, inviting opinions about adopting a global accounting standard for cryptocurrencies.

On November 21st, Australia’s Department of the Treasury initiated discussions about the methods they plan to use in adopting the Crypto Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) created by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). This framework is a collection of standardized guidelines designed for gathering tax data on crypto transactions and facilitating information sharing between tax authorities.

The paper presents two different options for implementing CARF. This includes adopting the framework into Australian tax law or taking a more tailored approach that will target the needs of the Australian Taxation Office. 

Adopting an international standard on crypto reporting

As a researcher in 2022, I was part of the team that helped develop and release the Common Reporting Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information for Tax (CARF) by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). This framework was designed to combat global tax evasion associated with crypto assets. The CARF provides enhanced visibility to tax authorities, enabling them to better track crypto users and transactions.

In the year 2023, a total of 47 nations committed to incorporating the Common Reporting Standard (CARF) into their local legal frameworks, thereby adopting a universal standard for data sharing. These countries consented to establish information exchange agreements, with the actual exchanges set to commence by the year 2027.

Australia, being among those countries, has committed to adopting a fresh regulatory structure for cryptocurrencies. As a result, the nation is progressing towards its objective of incorporating CARF into its tax system by engaging with relevant parties for their input.

According to the OECD’s Common Reporting Framework, cryptocurrency platforms and digital wallet services are required to share details of certain transactions with the appropriate tax agencies. These details will encompass records of crypto asset acquisitions.

As per the proposed guidelines, it’s possible that CARF reporting obligations could begin as early as 2026, according to the Treasury’s documentation.

“Subject to a final decision of Government, it is envisaged that CARF reporting requirements would commence from 2026, to ensure the first exchanges between the ATO and other tax authorities could take place by 2027. This timeframe would also be subject to future legislative priorities.”

This timeline allows sufficient advance notice for crypto service providers to make necessary adjustments to their systems before the changes take effect.

Other countries implementing CARF into tax laws

Beyond Australia, other regions are adopting CARF into their national regulations as well. Canada declared on April 18 that they will adopt this system by 2026. Switzerland followed suit by launching a public discussion on May 18 regarding the application of these standards to local tax laws. They also plan to implement this framework to boost transparency in taxes related to cryptocurrencies.

In a recent development, New Zealand has proposed implementing a new tax framework for cryptocurrencies in a bill submitted last August. This proposal is set to become law. The implementation date is April 1, 2026, and all crypto providers are expected to start collecting relevant information by this date. By June 30, 2027, they must submit these collected data.

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2024-11-24 11:54