This proposal creates an Approved Information Sharing Arrangement between Inland Revenue Department and Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to expand the sharing of sensitive taxpayer and business data. It would cover multiple categories of information, including financial data, company records, and contact details.
We oppose the proposal in its current form, arguing that such sweeping data-sharing powers should be set through legislation and proper parliamentary scrutiny. While limited sharing for enforcement purposes could be acceptable, we reject any use of taxpayer data for marketing or broad, undefined investigations.
Using compelled taxpayer data beyond its original purpose risks undermining trust in the tax system and weakening privacy protections. It also sets a precedent for government agencies to access and repurpose sensitive information without sufficient oversight or accountability.
