Goods and Services Tax Ruling

GSTR 2003/13

Goods and services tax: general law partnerships

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  A draft addendum for this ruling issued for comment on 11 June 2008. Comments period for the draft addendum closes 25 July 2008.
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Preamble

What this Ruling is about

1. This Ruling explains how the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999 (GST Act) applies to transactions involving general law partnerships.^[F1]

2. In particular, this Ruling explains:

•

the GST consequences of supplies and acquisitions made between a general law partnership and its partners, specifically:

-

on formation of the partnership;

-

during its operation; and

-

on its dissolution.

•

the meaning of an interest in or under the capital of a partnership in Subregulation 40-5.09(3) of the A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Regulations 1999 (GST regulations);

•

the GST consequences of:

-

a reconstitution of a general law partnership;

-

in kind capital contributions to a general law partnership by its partners; and

-

in kind distributions by a general law partnership to its partners.

3. This Ruling does not apply to tax law partnerships.^[F2]

4. This Ruling does not apply to limited partnerships.

5. This Ruling also does not apply to partial assignments of interests in a partnership of the kind described in Federal Commissioner of Taxation v. Everett.^[F3]

6. Unless otherwise stated, all legislative references in this Ruling are to the GST Act, and all references to the regulations are to the GST regulations.

Date of effect

7. This Ruling explains our view of the law as it applied from 1 July 2000. You can rely upon this Ruling on and from its date of issue for the purposes of section 37 of the Taxation Administration Act 1953 (TAA 1953). Goods and Services Tax Ruling GSTR 1999/1 explains the GST rulings system and our view of when you can rely on our interpretation of the law in GST public and private rulings.

8. If this Ruling conflicts with a previous private ruling that you have obtained, this public ruling prevails. However, if you have relied on a private ruling, you are protected in respect of what you have done up to the date of issue of this public ruling. This means that if you have underpaid an amount of GST, you are not liable for the shortfall prior to the date of issue of this later ruling. Similarly, you are not liable to repay an amount overpaid by the Commissioner as a refund.

Note: The Addendum to this Ruling that issued on 15 August 2007, explains our view of the law as it applied from 1 July 2007. You can rely upon the Addendum on and from its date of issue for the purposes of section 105-60 of Schedule 1 to the Taxation Administration Act 1953.

If this Addendum conflicts with a previous private ruling that you have obtained or a previous public ruling, this Addendum prevails. However, if you have relied on a previous ruling (including the public Ruling that the Addendum amends), you are protected in respect of what you have done up to the date of issue of the Addendum or, if there is a change to the legislation, you are protected in respect of what you have done up to the date the legislative change takes effect. This means that if you have relied on the earlier ruling and have underpaid an amount of GST, you are not liable for the shortfall prior to either the issue date of the Addendum or the date the legislative change takes effect, as appropriate. Similarly, if you have relied on the earlier ruling you are not liable to repay an amount overpaid by the Commissioner as a refund.

Background

9. A partnership is defined in section 195-1 by reference to the definition of a partnership in section 995-1 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997). That definition states that a partnership is:

an association of persons carrying on business as partners or in receipt of ordinary income or statutory income jointly, but does not include a company.

10. The first limb of the definition refers to 'an association of persons carrying on business as partners'. This reflects the general law definition of a partnership, which is 'the relation which subsists between persons carrying on a business in common with a view of profit'.^[F4] We refer to this type of partnership as a general law partnership.

11. The second limb refers to an association of persons that is not in business, but that is nevertheless in receipt of ordinary income or statutory income jointly. We refer to an association of persons under the second limb as a tax law partnership.

12. A general law partnership is formed when persons commence carrying on business together with a view of profit under an agreement, either written or oral. The 'relation' or the 'association' is one that arises under an agreement.

13. Under general law, a partnership is not an entity. The general law regards the business as being carried on by the persons that are in partnership. The term 'partnership' is merely descriptive of the relation between persons carrying on business with a view of profit.

14. The position under the GST Act is different. The definition of an entity includes a partnership.^[F5] A consequence of this is that the GST Act applies to partnership transactions, in particular dealings between partners and the partnership, in a manner that does not reflect the general law treatment of those transactions. Against this background, we have applied the GST law to general law partnerships in a way that best promotes the purpose or object of the GST Act and produces a sensible result.^[F6]

15. In this Ruling, unless otherwise stated:

•

a reference to a partnership is a reference to a general law partnership as defined in paragraph 10 of this Ruling;

•

a reference to a registered partnership is a reference to a partnership that is either registered or required to be registered for GST. Similarly, a reference to an unregistered partnership is a reference to a partnership that is neither registered nor required to be registered;

•

a reference to a registered partner is a reference to a partner who is registered or required to be registered for GST because they carry on a separate enterprise;

•

a reference to a member of a partnership is a reference to a partner of a partnership;

•

a reference to supplies and acquisitions is a reference, where appropriate, to supplies, acquisitions and importations; and

•

all supplies and acquisitions are connected with Australia.

Ruling with explanation

What is a general law partnership?

16. A general law partnership, as described in the first limb of the definition of a partnership, is 'an association of persons carrying on business as partners ... but does not include a company'.

Formation of a general law partnership

How and when a general law partnership is formed

17. A partnership is formed when two or more entities commence carrying on a business as partners. Whether and from what date a general law partnership exists are questions of fact. They are determined having regard to the partnership agreement and the circumstances surrounding the partnership's formation. The execution of a partnership agreement is the strongest evidence of a partnership being formed at a particular time.

18. The partnership agreement does not have to be in writing. Where there is no written agreement, the question of when a partnership is formed is determined having regard to the intention of the parties as evidenced by their conduct, the manner in which they deal with each other and with other parties, and other circumstances. Other circumstances may include the date of registration of a business or firm name, and the date on which partnership bank accounts are opened.

Intention not to form a general law partnership

19. Mutual assent and intention to act as partners is the essential element in demonstrating the existence of a partnership between two or more persons. A lack of intention to be in partnership may mean that a partnership does not exist at law.^[F7]

20. However, an express intention not to form a partnership, although a strong indicator that the relationship is not a partnership, will not be determinative in all cases. Even a declaration in an agreement between the parties not to form a partnership will be ineffective if all the indicia of a partnership are present.^[F8] Nevertheless, such a declaration may be used to rebut inferences that could otherwise be drawn from other clauses of any agreement the parties have between themselves.^[F9] If there is no written agreement, then the intention of the parties may be implied by their words and conduct.^[F10]

General law partnership as an entity for GST purposes

21. The GST Act definition of entity includes a partnership. The moment that a partnership is formed, it is an entity for GST purposes.

22. At general law, a partnership is not recognised as an entity distinct from its partners.^[F11] The general law definition of a partnership refers to the relationship that exists between persons carrying on business in common with a view of profit. It is the partners that carry on a business together and not the partnership as an entity separate from the partners. As was stated by William J in FC of T v. Happ:^[F12]

Businesses are carried on by the individuals who are in partnership and not by the partnership firm as a separate conception.

23. A partnership is treated as a separate entity for some income tax purposes. For example, under section 90 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 (ITAA 1936), the net income of the partnership is calculated 'as if the partnership was a taxpayer'. The assessable income or deductions of a partner must include their individual interest in the net income or partnership loss, respectively.

24. There is judicial authority for this proposition. In Rowe v. Federal Commissioner of Taxation,^[F13] the Full Federal Court recognised that:^[F14]

The ITAA 1936 does, for some purposes, treat a partnership as if it were a distinct entity from those who constitute it. Section 91 of the ITAA 1936 requires that a partnership shall furnish a return of the income of the partnership. Section 92 includes in the assessable income of a partner not a share of the gross income derived but 'his individual interest in the net income of the partnership of the year of income'. Section 90 defines the net income of a partnership as meaning the assessable income of the partnership, calculated as if the partnership were a taxpayer, less allowable deductions other than concessional deductions and deductions in respect of past losses. These provisions of the Act are, however, essentially for accounting purposes.

25. Similar observations were made by Taylor J in FC of T v. Beville,^[F15] by Lockhart J in FC of T v. Sahhar^[F16] and by Stephen J in Tikva Investments Pty. Ltd. v. FC of T.^[F17]

26. The concept of a partnership as an entity separate from the partners has been extended under the GST Act. We consider that the GST Act treats a partnership as an entity for all purposes of the Act.^[F18]

Supplies and acquisitions in the capacity as partner

27. As an entity, a general law partnership may register for GST, is liable for GST on taxable supplies that it makes,^[F19] and is entitled to input tax credits for creditable acquisitions it makes.

28. Supplies and acquisitions that are made by or on behalf of partners in their capacity as partners are treated as supplies and acquisitions by the partnership. This position is confirmed by subsection 184-5(1) which provides:

For the avoidance of doubt, a supply, acquisition or importation made by or on behalf of a partner of a partnership in his or her capacity as a partner:

(a)

is taken to be a supply, acquisition or importation made by the partnership; and

(b)

is not taken to be a supply, acquisition or importation made by that partner or any other partner of the partnership.

29. Whether a partner makes a supply or acquisition in the capacity as a partner is a question of fact. Factors that may indicate that a supply is made by a partner in that capacity include:

•

the consideration for the supply is paid to a common fund, or to all the partners;

•

the supply is of a kind typically made in the type of enterprise carried on by the partnership; and

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the invoice or tax invoice shows the firm or business name, or the names of all the partners as supplier.

30. Factors that may indicate that an acquisition is made by a partner in that capacity include:

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the acquisition is used in the enterprise of the partnership;

•

the acquisition is made with the consent of all the partners;

•

the acquisition is paid for out of partnership profits or from a partnership account; and

•

the invoice or tax invoice shows the firm or business name, or the names of all the partners as recipient.

Carrying on an enterprise

31. Under paragraph 9-20(1)(a), an enterprise includes an activity or activities done 'in the form of a business'.^[F20] Enterprise has a wider meaning than the concept of 'carrying on a business' in the definition of a partnership. A general law partnership, therefore, carries on an enterprise^[F21] and may register for GST from the time of its formation.

Supplies and acquisitions made by the partnership on formation

32. Upon formation of a partnership, the partners acquire interests in the partnership. The consideration for those interests can encompass capital contributions and the mutual obligations that each partner undertakes, including promises to provide labour, skills or services in the conduct of the partnership business.

Interests in a partnership

33. Upon a partnership coming into existence, its partners hold interests in the partnership. A partner's interest in the partnership may increase or decrease over time. A partner's interest is extinguished if the partner exits the partnership, unless the partner sells or assigns their interest to another entity. No interests in the partnership are held once the partnership ceases to exist.

34. An interest in a partnership includes a right to a proportion of the surplus after the realisation of the assets and payment of the debts and other liabilities of the partnership,^[F22] and is inclusive of a partner's entitlement to a share in the capital of the partnership.^[F23]

35. For GST purposes, transactions involving the acquisition, disposal, or changes in the level of interests held in a partnership are considered in the context of financial supplies.

Financial supplies

36. Section 40-5 provides that financial supplies are input taxed and that their meaning is given by the GST regulations. Subdivision 40-A of the GST regulations is about financial supplies. Under Subregulation 40-5.09(1), the provision, acquisition or disposal of an interest in or under securities, including the capital of a partnership, is a financial supply if:

(a)

the provision, acquisition or disposal is:

(i)

for consideration;

(ii)

in the course or furtherance of an enterprise; and

(iii)

connected with Australia.

(b)

the supplier is:

(i)

registered or required to be registered; and

(ii)

a financial supply provider in relation to supply of the interest.^[F24]

37. For GST purposes, an 'interest' is anything that is recognised at law or in equity as property in any form.^[F25]

38. Goods and Services Tax Ruling GSTR 2002/2, dealing with the GST treatment of financial supplies and related supplies and acquisitions, explains and clarifies when something is a financial supply. GSTR 2002/2 uses the term 'financial interest' to describe a supply that may be a financial supply because it is mentioned in an item in the table in Subregulation 40-5.09(3) and is capable of satisfying the tests in Subregulation 40-5.09(1).^[F26]

39. Item 10 in the table in Subregulation 40-5.09(3) (item 10) includes as securities 'the capital of a partnership or trust'.^[F27] Part 8 of Schedule 7 to the GST regulations includes 'interests in a partnership' within its list of examples for item 10. Neither an interest in a partnership, nor an interest in or under the capital of a partnership is a security as defined in subsection 92(1) of the Corporations Act 2001.^[F28]

40. As 'an interest in or under the capital of a partnership' and 'interests in a partnership' are each mentioned in the GST regulations, it is important to understand the meaning of the two expressions for the purpose of applying the GST provisions.

Interest in or under the capital of a partnership and interests in a partnership

41. The capital of a partnership, as described by Lord Lindley,^[F29] is:

the aggregate of the sums contributed by its members for the purpose of commencing or carrying on the partnership business, and intended to be risked by them in that business. The capital of a partnership is not therefore the same as its property: the capital is a sum fixed by the agreement of the partners; whilst the actual assets of the firm vary from day to day, and includes everything belonging to the firm and having any money value.

42. This description has been referred to with approval in both Rowella Pty Ltd v. Abfam Nominees Pty Ltd^[F30] and in Federal Commissioner of Taxation v. J.D. Roberts, Federal Commissioner of Taxation v. Smith (Roberts and Smith).^[F31]

43. In addition, the comments by Hill J in Roberts and Smith support our view that the expression 'capital of a partnership' in Subregulation 40-5.09(3) is consistent with the Lord Lindley description of capital, and comprises:

•

initial and subsequent capital contributions;

•

undrawn profit distributions; and

•

advances by the partners or other funds which have actually been invested in the partnership, less amounts of capital that are withdrawn by the partners from time to time.

44. Therefore, a partner's interest in the capital of a partnership is, for the purposes of item 10, a reference to the amounts ventured by the partners. This is commonly represented by the balance of the partner's capital account.

45. One view is that the expression 'interest in a partnership' is not synonymous with the expression 'interest in the capital of a partnership', and has a wider meaning. However, as item 10 refers to securities including the capital of a partnership or trust, an interest in a partnership can be a financial interest if it is an interest in or under the capital of a partnership.

46. Under this view, an interest in a partnership is an interest under the capital of a partnership in the sense that an interest in a partnership is secured by a partner upon the undertaking of obligations by each partner. These are the obligations to contribute capital, or the making of a promise to provide labour, skills or services in the conduct of the partnership business. This gives effect to the clear intention, expressed in Part 8 of Schedule 7 to the GST regulations, for the supply of an interest in a partnership to be a financial supply if the requirements of Subregulation 40-5.09(1) are met.^[F32]

47. Alternatively, the inclusion of interests in a partnership in the examples indicates a legislative intent that the expression 'capital of a partnership' is to be interpreted widely. Therefore, in the context of Subregulation 40-5.09(3), the expression 'capital of a partnership' has a wider meaning than the Lord Lindley description of capital, and refers to other interests including the net assets (or value) of the partnership. An interest in a partnership includes a partner's right to a proportion of the surplus after realisation of the assets and payment of the debts and other liabilities. In a subsisting partnership, that right is represented by their interest in the net assets of the partnership. The reference to an interest in or under the capital of a partnership is therefore, a reference to an interest in a partnership.

48. Under either view, the expression 'interest in or under the capital of a partnership' in item 10 includes all the interests that a partner acquires from the partnership as a consequence of being a partner of that partnership. Therefore, an interest in a partnership is an interest in or under a security under item 10(d).

49. We acknowledge that, in interpreting item 10(d), the regulation can be read literally or more purposively. We do not consider it appropriate to adopt a narrow meaning of the expression 'interest in or under the capital of a partnership' in that item. If the expression is interpreted literally and narrowly, something (an interest in a partnership) that is intended to be a financial supply might not be a financial supply. Such an interpretative approach would give rise to an absurd result, in that, what is regarded as an element of other interests in a partnership (an interest in the capital of a partnership) would be within the ambit of item 10(d), but the interest in the partnership itself would not. Having regard to this, we read the relevant provisions more purposively to give effect to what was intended.

50. Regulation 40-5.11 provides that something mentioned in a Part of Schedule 7 to the GST regulations that relates to a financial supply mentioned in an item in the table in Regulation 40-5.09 is an example of a financial supply mentioned in the item. Note 2 to Regulation 40-5.11 states that if an example is inconsistent with the description of the financial supply to which the example relates, the description prevails.

51. In our view, the example in Part 8 of Schedule 7 is not inconsistent with the description in item 10(d) of Subregulation 40-5.09(3), as the expression 'an interest in or under the capital of a partnership' is broader than the expression 'interest in the capital of a partnership' and encompasses an 'interest in a partnership'.

52. In this Ruling, we use the expression 'interest in a partnership' rather than 'interest in or under the capital of a partnership' to describe all the interests that are within the scope of item 10(d) as it is a more commonly used and understood expression.

Supply of an interest in a partnership as a financial supply

53. An interest in a partnership is a financial interest under Subregulation 40-5.09(3). It will be a financial supply if the requirements of Subregulation 40-5.09(1) are met. These requirements are listed at paragraph 36, and are explained further in paragraphs 56 to 64.

Partnership as supplier of the interest in the partnership

54. In determining the GST consequences of supplies of interests in a partnership, it is important to determine whether these are supplies made by the partners to each other under the terms of the partnership agreement, or whether they are supplies by the partnership to the partners.

55. We consider the better view to be that the interests in a partnership are supplied by the partnership and not by the partners to each other.

General law partnership as a financial supply provider

56. For the purposes of Subdivision 40-A of the GST regulations, a general law partnership is a financial supply provider. We consider that the partnership entity creates an interest in the partnership in making the supply of that interest. This is a consequence of the acceptance of a partnership as an entity, and the fact that partners may act in the capacity of partners.^[F33] Therefore, the partnership is a financial supply provider under paragraph 40-5.06(1)(b) of the GST regulations.

57. Subregulation 40-5.06(2) specifies that the entity acquiring a financial interest is also the financial supply provider in relation to that interest. As a result, in acquiring an interest, a partner may also make a financial supply. GSTR 2002/2 refers to this as an acquisition-supply.^[F34]

Consideration for the supply of an interest in a partnership

58. The obligations that each partner undertakes, including capital contributions, or the promise to provide labour, skills or services in the conduct of the partnership business, are consideration for the supply of interests in the partnership.

Supply of an interest in a partnership made in the course or furtherance of an enterprise

59. We take the view that the supply of an interest in a partnership is made in the course or furtherance of the enterprise that the partnership carries on. It is consideration for the acquisition of capital, or the promise to provide labour, skills or services in the conduct of the partnership business, from the partners to enable the partnership enterprise to be carried on. The supply of the interest in the partnership has the necessary connection with the enterprise to make the supply 'in the course or furtherance of the enterprise'.

60. The Explanatory Memorandum to A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) Bill 1999 supports this view. The Explanatory Memorandum, at paragraph 3.10 states:

'In the course or furtherance' is not defined, but is broad enough to cover any supplies made in connection with your enterprise. An act done for the purpose or object of furthering an enterprise, or achieving its goals, is a furtherance of an enterprise although it may not always be in the course of that enterprise.

61. The above view is also supported by New Zealand's Taxation Review Authority (TRA) Case 28, Case N 43,^[F35] in which Bathgate DJ found:^[F36]

An act done for the purpose or object of furthering the taxable activity, or achieving its goal, can be to help, achieve, or advance, and thus a 'furtherance' of a taxable activity.^[F37]

Registration

62. Where its projected GST turnover meets the registration turnover threshold,^[F38] a partnership is required to be registered upon formation. The registration turnover threshold is $75,000 (or a higher amount as specified in the GST regulations).^[F39]

63. A partnership may be registered for GST from a particular date^[F40] which is not earlier than when the partnership undertakes activities in the commencement of its enterprise. In the event that the enterprise does not proceed, there is a cessation of the enterprise. The partnership is dissolved and it will need to apply for the cancellation of its registration.

64. A partnership whose registration has been cancelled may still have assets in respect of which it was, or is, entitled to an input tax credit. This may result in increasing adjustments for the partnership under Division 138 to cancel those input tax credits.^[F41]

Acquisitions by a partnership upon formation

65. Upon formation, a general law partnership, as an entity for GST purposes, acquires capital from the partners. This may be either in money or in kind, or the promise to provide labour, skills or services in the conduct of the partnership's business.

66. When a partnership acquires an in kind capital contribution, it has been suggested that the acquisition is either not for or only partly for a creditable purpose because it relates to the supply of a partnership interest which would be input taxed.^[F42]

67. We consider that the in kind contribution is consideration for the supply of the partnership interest. However, the acquisition relates to the actual operation of the partnership and, therefore, relates to the making of supplies by a partnership in the course of the partnership's ordinary or general business. Any claim, therefore, for input tax credits is determined by reference to the use of the in kind capital contribution in the partnership's business activities and will be a creditable acquisition if the requirements of section 11-5 are met.

Example 1: In kind capital acquisition relates to taxable supply by partnership

68. George and Claudia form a partnership to run a coffee shop. George is registered for GST in respect of a wholesale restaurant supplies business he conducts. He has an espresso coffee machine which he contributes as an in kind capital contribution. The market value of the coffee machine is $5,500.

69. The consideration provided by the partnership for the coffee machine is the interest in the partnership. The supply of the espresso coffee machine is a taxable supply by George.

70. Although the coffee machine is consideration for the supply of the partnership interest, the acquisition relates to the taxable supplies of coffee in the coffee shop. The partnership is able to claim an input tax credit of $500.

Supplies and acquisitions made by the partners on formation

71. A partner does not carry on an enterprise as a partner in a partnership. Therefore, a partner cannot register for GST in relation to the enterprise of the partnership.

72. Where a registered partner enters into the partnership and makes an in kind capital contribution in the course or furtherance of their own enterprise, the in kind capital contribution is a supply that may be taxable, input taxed or GST-free. A capital contribution of money is not a supply.^[F43]

Example 2: Formation of the partnership and GST consequences

73. Kate and Sydney form a partnership operating a wholesale pie business and they register the partnership for GST. They acquire equal interests in the partnership. In Kate's case, this is for a capital contribution of $22,000 in money, which is not a supply by Kate. Sydney's capital contribution is a delivery van with a GST inclusive market value of $22,000. This is a supply made by Sydney for consideration, being the interest in the partnership.

74. In the partnership accounts, Kate's and Sydney's capital contributions are recorded as being $22,000 each - a total of $44,000 contributed. However, the partnership is able to claim an input tax credit of $2,000 in respect of the delivery van (assuming 100% creditable purpose) and the partnership assets are shown as: Van - $20,000, Cash - $24,000, a total of $44,000.

75. It has been suggested that the supply as an in kind capital contribution of a thing acquired in the partner's own enterprise is not made in the course or furtherance of that partner's own enterprise. We consider that the supply, sale or disposal of business assets will be in the course or furtherance of the enterprise in which those assets are used. There is support for this view in TRA Case 6, Case K55,^[F44] in which Bathgate DJ noted:^[F45]

If capital assets are used in the carrying on of a taxable activity the sale of those assets, or some of them, can readily be in the course or furtherance of that activity... 'In the course or furtherance of' a taxable activity is not an altogether different concept from the income tax situation of '... in gaining or producing, assessable income'. It may be that to discover whether a supply is in the course or furtherance of a taxable activity some discernible nexus should be apparent between the activity and the supply. It would not appear inappropriate. ...it is a question of fact and degree as to whether a supply is in the course or furtherance of a taxable activity carried on by the person concerned. There must obviously be a discernable relationship between the supply and the activity in the form of a nexus for the supply to be in the course or furtherance of the activity.

Example 3: Taxable supply of in kind capital contribution

76. Sydney, from Example 2, is registered in relation to a separate enterprise he carries on. He acquired the van in carrying on that enterprise. The subsequent supply of the van as an in kind capital contribution to the partnership is a supply that Sydney makes in the course of his separate enterprise. As the supply is for consideration, being the interest in the partnership, and Sydney is registered, the supply of the van to the partnership is a taxable supply.

77. The acquisition by a partner of an interest in the partnership is not a creditable acquisition as its supply to the partner is not a taxable supply.^[F46] The partner, in acquiring a financial interest, also makes an acquisition-supply.^[F47]

Example 4: Supplies of interests in a partnership

78. Kate and Sydney, from Example 2, have each been supplied with an interest in the partnership. These supplies of financial interests by the partnership are financial supplies because the requirements of Subregulation 40-5.09(1) are met. In acquiring these financial supplies, Kate and Sydney also make acquisition-supplies.

In kind capital contribution - change in creditable purpose?

79. A partner making an in kind capital contribution is making two supplies to the partnership, being the supply of the in kind capital contribution and the acquisition-supply of the interest in the partnership. Where the thing supplied by the partner to the partnership was a creditable acquisition by the partner in carrying on a separate enterprise, it has been suggested that there is a change in the partner's creditable purpose. The change relates to making the acquisition-supply, which is an input taxed supply.^[F48]

80. We consider that the acquisition by the partner has a more direct and immediate link with, and therefore relates to, the supply of the in kind capital contribution made by the partner than with the acquisition-supply of a partnership interest. The partner's entitlement to input tax credits, therefore, is not affected by the acquisition-supply of a partnership interest.

Example 5: In kind capital contribution - no change in creditable purpose

81. Sydney, from Examples 2, 3 and 4, acquired the van in carrying on his separate enterprise, solely for a creditable purpose. His capital contribution of the van to the partnership is made in return for the interest in the partnership, and is connected to the acquisition-supply he makes. However, the acquisition of the van has a more direct and immediate link with Sydney's taxable supply of the van to the partnership, than with making the acquisition-supply. There is no change in Sydney's application of the van for a creditable purpose.

Single entity selling an interest in its enterprise to form a partnership

82. When a single entity takes a partner into its business, the agreement to do so frequently provides for the new partner to purchase a share of the business or a share of the assets of the business.

83. For GST purposes, this transaction results in the formation of a partnership and an acquisition of an interest in the partnership by each partner. The consideration provided by the 'purchaser' for the interest in the partnership is the amount payable to the 'vendor' in respect of the acquisition of the interest in the business.

84. We regard this transaction as the supply of an enterprise to the partnership by the entity selling the business, with the consideration being a supply of an interest in the partnership, together with a payment of money.

85. If the supply of the enterprise meets the requirements of section 38-325, it is a supply of a going concern that is GST-free.^[F49]

Operation of the partnership

The application of Division 72

86. If a partnership makes supplies to the partners or their associates in the course or furtherance of its enterprise without consideration or for inadequate consideration, Division 72 may apply. This also extends to in kind supplies made as part of a distribution of profits.

87. Division 72 ensures that supplies to, and acquisitions from, associates without consideration are brought within the GST system, and that supplies to associates for inadequate consideration are properly valued for GST purposes.^[F50] As a partnership and its partners are associates under the GST Act,^[F51] Division 72 may apply to supplies between a partnership and its partners.

88. Subdivision 72-A may apply to a supply made between a partnership and its partners where the supply is without consideration.^[F52] A requirement is that the supply would have been a taxable supply but for the fact that the supply was for no consideration. The Subdivision will not apply if the acquirer is both registered and makes the acquisition for a solely creditable purpose.

89. Subdivision 72-C may apply to a supply made between a partnership and its partners where the consideration for the supply is inadequate.^[F53] The Subdivision does not apply if the recipient is both registered and makes the acquisition for a solely creditable purpose.

90. Where Division 72 applies to a supply that is made without consideration or for inadequate consideration, the value of the supply is its GST exclusive market value.^[F54]

Example 6: Supply by a partnership to a partner for no consideration

91. Shylock and Partners, a firm of solicitors, supplies conveyancing services to clients in the course of the enterprise it carries on. The partnership does the conveyancing for Portia, a partner, on her purchase of a private residence. She provides no consideration to the partnership for the supply of the conveyancing services. The GST exclusive market value of the services supplied is $1,000.

92. The supply of the conveyancing services to Portia attracts the application of Division 72 because the supply was made in the course or furtherance of the partnership's enterprise without consideration, she is an associate of the partnership, and the acquisition is not for a creditable purpose. The partnership is liable for GST of $100.

Acquisition by a partnership for private or domestic use

93. If a general law partnership makes an acquisition that has an intended use that is partly for private or domestic purposes and partly in carrying on the partnership enterprise, the acquisition is partly for a creditable purpose. The partnership needs to apportion its claim for an input tax credit under section 11-30 to the extent that the acquisition is for a creditable purpose.

Example 7: Acquisition partly for a creditable purpose

94. Nigel and Sue are partners in a partnership. The partnership purchases a car that is intended to be used partly for partnership business and partly for private purposes. The partnership estimates that the business use of the car will be 60% and it claims an input tax credit based on this estimate of creditable purpose.^[F55] The partnership is not able to claim an input tax credit to the extent that the acquisition of the car is of a private or domestic nature, that is, 40%.

Changes in creditable purpose

95. A supply by a partnership of a thing acquired, to a partner, is an application of the thing by the partnership. Section 129-55 provides:

Apply, in relation to a thing acquired or imported, includes:

(a)

supply the thing; and

(b)

consume, dispose of or destroy the thing; and

(c)

allow another entity to consume, dispose of or destroy the thing.

96. Where a general law partnership allows a partner to use a thing for a private or domestic purpose that it acquired in carrying on its enterprise, the partnership applies the thing within the meaning of section 129-55.

97. If the extent of creditable purpose is changed from that originally intended upon acquisition, for instance private or domestic use changes, the partnership may need to make an adjustment under Division 129.

98. If the acquisition was of goods solely for a creditable purpose, but applied solely for a private or domestic purpose, Division 130 may apply instead.

Division 129

99. Division 129 may apply in relation to any thing that is acquired where there is a change in the extent of creditable purpose. If the actual application of the acquisition for a creditable purpose is less than the intended application for that purpose, the partnership may have an increasing adjustment for the adjustment period.^[F56] If the actual application of the acquisition for a creditable purpose is greater than its intended application for that purpose, the partnership may have a decreasing adjustment for the adjustment period. Division 129 does not apply if the partnership previously had an adjustment under Division 130 for the acquisition.

Example 8: Adjustment for change in extent of creditable purpose

100. Nigel and Sue, from Example 7, subsequently realise that the business use of the car is actually 70%. The partnership has a decreasing adjustment in its first adjustment period, which reflects the change in creditable purpose from 60% to 70%.^[F57]

Division 130

101. Division 130 applies only where goods acquired solely for a creditable purpose are subsequently applied^[F58] solely to a private or domestic use. Where this occurs, the partnership has an increasing adjustment under Division 130.^[F59] Division 130 does not apply if the partnership previously had an adjustment under Division 129 for the acquisition.

102. For the purposes of Division 130, it is the private or domestic use by the partnership that is relevant. We consider that when goods are removed by a partnership for private consumption by a partner, there is an application solely to private and domestic use by the partnership. The application to a private or domestic use by a partnership under Division 130 does not involve a supply made in the course or furtherance of the partnership's enterprise.^[F60]

Example 9: Goods own use

103. Duncan and Tracey in partnership run a business as retailers of fine china. The partnership claims input tax credits on the basis that all acquisitions of china are solely for a creditable purpose. The partnership subsequently allows Duncan to take home some of the china for his family's private usage. In doing this, the partnership's application of the china has changed from solely creditable to solely private or domestic. The partnership has an increasing adjustment under Division 130 for the china that Duncan takes home.

Supplies from a partner to the partnership

104. A supply that a registered partner makes to the partnership is a taxable supply if it satisfies the requirements of section 9-5. A supply may be of an in kind capital contribution,^[F61] or a business transaction that does not involve a contribution of capital.

Example 10: Supply by a registered partner to the partnership

105. William is a partner in a GST registered partnership, which manufactures model aeroplanes. He also carries on his own enterprise making parts for model aeroplanes and is registered for GST in relation to that enterprise. A film studio orders a specially designed model aeroplane from the partnership. William, from his own business, sells the parts to the partnership for the manufacture of the model.

106. As the supply meets all the requirements of section 9-5, William makes a taxable supply.

107. Where a registered partner makes a supply to the partnership without consideration, or for inadequate consideration, the supply may be taxable on application of Division 72.^[F62]

108. A supply by a partner to a partnership may also be GST-free or input taxed. A sale by a registered partner of an enterprise to a partnership may be the supply of a going concern that is GST-free if the requirements of section 38-325 are met.^[F63] A loan or advance made by a registered partner to a partnership may be a financial supply (under item 2 of Subregulation 40-5.09(3)).^[F64]

Example 11: Partner making a financial supply to the partnership

109. Paul and Art operate a music store in partnership. In order to fund a new stock of sheet music, Paul lends $5,000 to the partnership. Paul carries on a separately registered enterprise as a money lender. In making the loan, Paul is making a financial supply to the partnership of an interest in or under a credit arrangement, for consideration of an interest in a debt.

Reimbursements

110. A partner making an acquisition in relation to the enterprise of the partnership ordinarily makes it in the capacity as partner. However, partners may incur expenses that are directly related to their activities as partners of the partnership, but not actually incurred in their capacities as partners. An example is a partner making calls from a private telephone to partnership clients.

111. When the partnership reimburses the partner for the expense, Division 111 treats the reimbursement as consideration for an acquisition that the partnership makes from the partner. This Division allows registered entities to claim input tax credits on certain acquisitions made by their employees, agents, officers or partners where such expenses are reimbursed. A registered partnership is entitled to an input tax credit if the requirements of Division 111 are satisfied.

112. One of the requirements of this Division is that the supply to the partner must be taxable. The partner needs to provide the partnership with the tax invoice (except where the value is $75 or less)^[F65] it obtained for this supply, as the partnership may claim an input tax credit if it holds this tax invoice.^[F66]

113. Where a partner makes an acquisition and is acting in the capacity as a partner of the partnership, the acquisition is taken to be by the partnership.^[F67] The question of reimbursements in this instance will not arise (see subsection 111-5(3A)).

Tax Invoices

Acquisitions by the partnership

114. In most cases, where a partner makes a creditable acquisition in the capacity as a partner,^[F68] the partnership must hold a tax invoice to claim an input tax credit.^[F69] If the tax invoice is for supplies totalling $1,000 or more, Regulation 29-70.01 requires that it contains the name, and either the address or ABN of the recipient. Where the recipient is a partnership, the details required will be the name of the partnership and either its address or ABN. The name requirement will be met if the tax invoice shows the names of all the partners, or the business or trading name.^[F70]

115. However, there may be occasions when a document issued to the partnership as a tax invoice is for a total amount payable of $1,000 or more, but contains only the name of a partner. The Commissioner exercises his discretion under subsection 29-70(1) to treat the document as a tax invoice if it contains the name of a partner instead of the partnership, but otherwise complies with subsection 29-70(1). This gives practical effect to the operation of subsection 184-5(1), and provides a result which is consistent with the treatment of tax invoices relating to reimbursements, discussed in paragraphs 110 to 113 above.^[F71]

116. Where the tax invoice shows a total amount payable of less than $1,000, the fact that it shows the name of a partner and not the name of the partnership will make no difference. The name of the recipient is not a requirement for tax invoices for this amount.^[F72]

Supplies by the partnership

117. Similarly, where partners make supplies in their capacities as partners of a partnership, tax invoices issued by the partnership should show its name and ABN.^[F73] The name requirement will be met if the tax invoice shows the names of all the partners, or the business or trading name.^[F74] However, the Commissioner exercises his discretion to treat a document as a tax invoice if it only shows the name of a partner, where the supply was made on behalf of the partnership, provided the document otherwise complies with subsection 29-70(1).^[F75]

Adjustment notes

118. An adjustment may arise from an adjustment event that occurs in relation to an acquisition made by a partnership.^[F76] The adjustment note must show the name and either the address or ABN of the partnership as recipient,^[F77] unless the tax invoice for the acquisition showed a total amount payable of less than $1,000, or the price of a supply which becomes taxable was less than $1,000.^[F78]

119. Where the name and address or ABN of the partnership is required, the Commissioner exercises his discretion under subsection 29-75(1) to treat a document as an adjustment note if it shows the name of a partner instead of the partnership, and otherwise complies with subsection 29-75(1).

120. An adjustment event may also occur in relation to a supply made by the partnership.^[F79] Where an adjustment arises, the Commissioner will treat a document as an adjustment note if it shows the name of a partner as supplier instead of the partnership, provided the document otherwise complies with subsection 29-75(1).

Can a general law partnership make a supply of a going concern?

121. We consider that a general law partnership can make a supply of a going concern.^[F80] Under subsection 38-325(2), a partnership supplies a going concern if the supply is made under an arrangement where:

•

the partnership supplies to the recipient all of the things necessary for the continued operation of an enterprise; and

•

the partnership carries on or will carry on the enterprise until the day of the supply.

122. The supply of a going concern is GST-free if the requirements of subsection 38-325(1) are met. Those requirements are:

•

the supply is for consideration;

•

the recipient of the supply is registered or required to be registered; and

•

the supplier and the recipient have agreed in writing that the supply is of a going concern.

123. A general law partnership may make the supply of a going concern to another partnership comprising some of the same partners as the partnership making the supply. This may occur where a partner supplies their interest in the partnership to an incoming partner, or the existing partners.

124. The supply of an interest in a partnership is not, of itself, a supply of a going concern.^[F81] However, if a supply of an interest in a partnership results in the general dissolution and wind-up of the existing partnership (rather than a technical dissolution and reconstitution - see paragraphs 148-171 below), this has the effect of transferring the entire enterprise from the old partnership to the new partnership. The sale of an interest in a partnership under this arrangement results in the supply of a going concern by the 'old' partnership to the 'new' partnership, which may be GST-free if the requirements of subsection 38-325(1) are met.

125. Upon the supply of a going concern by the old partnership to the new partnership, the old partnership is dissolved and is required to cancel its GST registration. The new partnership needs to apply for a GST registration.

Dissolution of a partnership

126. At general law, dissolution of a partnership may be brought about in a number of different ways, including by a change in its membership or by a cessation of its business. Where the partnership no longer carries on a business, it is dissolved and wound up. However, on departure of a partner (upon resignation, retirement or death), the partnership is either wound up or the continuing partners agree that the business or firm may be carried on by the continuing partners, with or without new partners.^[F82] In the latter situation, there may be no change in the outward appearance of the partnership business or firm.

127. A dissolution leading to the winding up of the partnership is called a general dissolution. A dissolution that does not result in the winding up of a partnership is called a technical dissolution.^[F83] A technical dissolution occurs where the assets and liabilities of the partnership are taken over by the continuing partners (and any new partners) and the partnership business is continued without any apparent break.

General dissolution

128. A general dissolution of a partnership may be brought about in a number of ways. These include:

•

by mutual agreement between the partners;

•

upon the expiration of time if the partnership is for a fixed period of time;

•

by the death or bankruptcy of a partner; and

•

permanent cessation of the business carried on.^[F84]

129. When a partnership dissolution leads to its winding up, the partners retain their authority to bind the other members of the partnership for the purpose of winding up the affairs of the partnership, and only for that purpose. Their other rights and obligations also continue for this purpose. See for instance, subsection 41(1) of Queensland's Partnership Act 1891:

After the dissolution of a partnership the authority of each partner to bind the firm, and the other rights and obligations of the partners, continue notwithstanding the dissolution so far as may be necessary to wind up the affairs of the partnership, and to complete transactions begun but unfinished at the time of the dissolution, but not otherwise.^[F85]

130. Effectively, a partnership continues, although only for the purpose of winding up. As stated in Lindley & Banks:^[F86]

For the purposes of winding up, the partnership is deemed to continue; the good faith and honourable conduct due from every partner to his co-partners during the continuance of the partnership being equally due so long as its affairs remain unsettled; and that which was partnership property before, continuing to be so for the purpose of dissolution, as the rights of the partners require.

GST consequences of a general dissolution

131. Some or all of the partners may continue to carry on the enterprise of the partnership during its winding up. The definition of 'carrying on an enterprise' includes doing anything in the course of the termination of the enterprise.^[F87] The activities, including the final distribution, that are carried out as part of the winding up are in 'carrying on an enterprise'.

Supplies made by a partnership on winding up

132. Realising business assets as part of winding up a partnership involves the partnership making supplies in the course or furtherance of an enterprise that it carries on. Those supplies are taxable supplies if all the requirements of section 9-5 are satisfied.

133. Following the payment of the partnership debts and other liabilities after realisation of assets, any available surplus is applied in making distributions to the partners.^[F88]

134. Where not all of the assets^[F89] of the partnership are required to be sold in order to meet the debts and other liabilities of the partnership, remaining assets may be distributed to the partners.^[F90]

135. Where the partnership makes an in kind distribution to a partner in satisfaction of a partner's interest in the partnership, for GST purposes, it is something done in the course of the termination of the partnership's enterprise. We consider that the making of an in kind distribution is a supply in the course of the enterprise that the partnership carries on.

136. [Withdrawn]

137. [Withdrawn]

138. [Withdrawn]

139. [Withdrawn]

140. [Withdrawn]

141. [Withdrawn]

142. [Withdrawn]

143. [Withdrawn]

144. [Withdrawn]

145. [Withdrawn]

Supplies made by the partners on winding up a partnership

146. If, after payment of debts and other liabilities of the partnership, there is a surplus, the partners ordinarily would not make any supplies to the partnership. Where the partnership has a deficiency upon winding up, the partners may contribute money or other assets to ensure that the partnership meets its debts and other liabilities. In this case, the partners' interests in the partnership are not extinguished until the partnership has met its debts and other liabilities.

147. The contribution of money by a partner to make good a partnership deficiency is not a supply. The supply of other assets by a registered partner to the partnership, if made in the course or furtherance of their separate enterprise, is a taxable supply if all the requirements of section 9-5 are met. The partnership acquires the assets in the course of the termination of its enterprise, that is, in carrying on its enterprise. It therefore makes a creditable acquisition of the asset supplied by the partner.

Technical dissolution

148. Under general law, any change in the membership of a general law partnership leads to its dissolution. However, as previously discussed in paragraphs 126 and 127 of this ruling, the dissolution may not lead to the winding up of the partnership. The continuing partners and any new partner may conduct the business of the partnership without any break in its continuity. We refer to this as a reconstituted partnership.

149. Whether or not there is a reconstituted partnership depends on the intention of the parties and the terms and conditions of the partnership agreement.

150. A written partnership agreement may expressly provide for the continuation of the firm or business in the event of a change in the membership of the partnership. This provision is often referred to as a continuity or non-dissolution clause. In the absence of a written agreement, such a clause may be implied by the conduct of the partners following the retirement or death of a partner, or introduction of a new partner.

Effectiveness of continuity clauses

151. The effectiveness of continuity clauses has been discussed in a number of cases. In S.J. Mackie Pty Ltd v. Dalziell Medical Practice Pty Ltd (Dalziell),^[F91] two proprietary companies carried on the practice of radiology as partners, pursuant to an agreement. A radiologist who was employed by the partnership was offered a partnership. He accepted. Some months later, he was excluded from the partnership, and he sought an account of the profits and a share of the goodwill of the partnership. The original partnership deed included a clause stipulating that the partnership:

...shall be a continuing partnership and shall not be dissolved by the transfer or purported transfer of any unit or other interest in the partnership.

152. The Full Court of the Supreme Court of Queensland took the view that a non-dissolution clause did not negate the basic principle of partnership law that any change in membership 'destroyed'^[F92] the existing partnership. The court found it 'impossible to give literal effect to a provision ... that the partnership is a continuing partnership not dissolved by transfer of a unit or other interest in the partnership'.^[F93]

153. Similarly, in FC of T v. Jeffries,^[F94] the Court found that a partnership was dissolved when the outgoing partner assigned his interest in the partnership. In Hadlee and Sydney Bridge Nominees Ltd v. Commissioner of Inland Revenue (Hadlee),^[F95] Eichelbaum J expressed a similar view. The judgments in Dalziell and Hadlee drew on comments made in the House of Lords decision, Commissioners for General Purposes of Income Tax for City of London v. Gibbs and Others,^[F96] which held that the four remaining partners were a different partnership to the original five, with different rights, powers and division of property.

154. The Courts have, however, distinguished between a technical dissolution and a general dissolution. They have shown a reluctance to order a partnership to be wound up on a change of members where there is an express or implied continuity clause, and it is clear that the firm continues.

155. In Abbott v. Abbott (Abbott),^[F97] the Court considered the question of whether there was a general dissolution of a partnership between a father and his five sons when one of them retired. The partnership agreement provided that 'The death or retirement of any partner shall not terminate the partnership', and that 'If any partner shall ... do or suffer any act which would be a ground for the dissolution of the partnership by the court then he shall be considered as having retired.'^[F98]

156. Clauson J stated:^[F99]

If this were a partnership at will and one partner said, 'I am determined to go out of this partnership' the effect would be that the partnership would come to an end as between all the partners, although the others might form some new partnership amongst themselves if they so desired.

157. His Honour also said:

So there is some limitation upon this character of the partnership; it is subject to the express agreement that a single partner cannot determine the partnership although he can determine it as between himself and the others. This involves the fact that if one intimates his desire to go out, the partnership shall continue among the remaining partners. The partners have agreed that the partnership shall continue, notwithstanding that one partner goes out, and they have also agreed that notwithstanding that one partner dies, the partnership shall continue. That does not mean that the partnership shall continue when all but one of the partners has died or retired, because there cannot be a partnership with one partner.^[F100]

158. In Sobell v. Boston and Others (Sobell),^[F101] following an oral agreement between the plaintiff and the defendants, who were practising as solicitors, the plaintiff left the partnership and the defendants continued the business under the same name and from the same address. The plaintiff sought a declaration that the partnership was dissolved, an order for the sale of the assets and goodwill of the business and an account of sums due in respect of his share in the capital and profits.

159. The application was dismissed. Goff J considered that the determination that he had to make was whether, in light of the conduct of the parties, there was a general dissolution of the partnership or that the plaintiff had retired from the partnership leaving the partnership continuing between the remaining three partners. His Honour found that:^[F102]

...the true inference from their conduct is that the plaintiff retired ... and the agreement did not work a dissolution.

160. His Honour went on to say:^[F103]

...once given that it is found that a partner has retired, I do not see how, as a general rule he can be entitled to a sale which is inconsistent with retirement, involving as that does the other partners taking over the business for themselves ... In my judgment, what he is entitled to is the value of his share at the date of his retirement, including, of course, the then goodwill, the ascertainment of which must at all events normally be a matter of inquiry, accounting and valuation, not sale.

161. Sobell^[F104] was referred to with approval in Chia & Ors v. Ireland (Chia).^[F105] In Chia, the Court was dealing with a dispute between an outgoing partner (Dr. Ireland) and continuing partners about the value of the outgoing partner's share. The outgoing partner had brought an action claiming that the partnership of medical practitioners had been dissolved, and sought an order for winding up and for the taking of partnership accounts.

162. The appeal failed. The Court concluded that there had not been a general dissolution of the partnership, but a retirement by Dr Ireland from a continuing business. Williams J observed:

The distinction between a technical dissolution of partnership upon retirement of one partner from a continuing partnership and a general dissolution when the affairs of the business are fully wound up is of importance to this appeal. An appreciation of the distinction affects an understanding of the nature of the order under appeal and the rights of the outgoing partner with respect to the remaining partners in a continuing enterprise when the partnership agreement is silent as to the consequences of dissolution.

Continuity clauses - are they effective for GST purposes?

163. To regard a change in the membership of a partnership as leading to a winding up of an existing partnership and the formation of a new partnership would lead to administrative and compliance difficulties for the partnership and its partners. This would be the case particularly for partnerships that experience frequent membership changes. Every change in membership would require cancellation of the partnership's GST registration (and Australian Business Number (ABN)) and re-application for a new GST registration (and ABN) by the continuing partners.

164. We consider that, for GST purposes, it is open and appropriate for the Commissioner to accept that a change in membership does not necessarily result in the general dissolution and winding up of the partnership.

165. We acknowledge that there is judicial support for the view that a continuity clause is ineffective to override the fundamental principle that a change in the membership of a partnership dissolves the old and leads to the formation of a new partnership.

166. However, other cases support the notion of a reconstituted partnership. This, combined with the practical and administrative considerations and the purposive intent behind the treatment of a partnership as an entity for GST purposes, supports our view that, at least for GST purposes, a continuity clause (whether express or implied) is effective.

167. The view that there can be continuity of a partnership for GST purposes means that the partnership is dissolved only as far as a retiring or deceased partner is concerned.^[F106] The retiring or deceased partner's interest in the partnership crystallises as a debt owing by the partnership to that partner. The reconstituted partnership continues as far as the continuing partners are concerned.

168. We consider that, for a partnership to be treated as reconstituted, there needs to be an express or implied continuity clause in the partnership agreement, and there should be no break in the continuity of the enterprise or firm. Indicators of continuity of the enterprise or the firm include:

•

substantially all of the partnership assets remain with the continuing partnership;

•

the nature of the enterprise remains substantially unchanged;

•

the client or customer base remains substantially unchanged; and

•

the business name or name of the firm remains unchanged.

169. None of these indicators is conclusive evidence of a reconstituted partnership, nor is its absence necessarily indicative of a dissolution that results in the winding up of the partnership. The position is determined on the facts and circumstances of each case.

Change in the membership of a two-partner partnership

170. A partnership can be a reconstituted partnership only where two or more partners remain. In a two-partner partnership, the departure of one through retirement or death will normally lead to a general dissolution and winding up of that partnership. As noted in Abbott, 'there cannot be a partnership with one partner'.^[F107]

171. However, we accept that a two-person partnership can be reconstituted. This occurs where a partner in a two-partner partnership sells or assigns an interest in the partnership to an incoming partner, or where a partner dies and the partnership agreement allows for continuity of the partnership with either the executor, trustee or beneficiary of the deceased partner's estate. The continuity clause may be express, or implied by way of conduct. Where this happens and the firm continues without any break in the continuity of the enterprise, we consider there is a change in members and a reconstituted partnership.

GST consequences of a technical dissolution (reconstitution)

172. A reconstituted partnership retains its GST registration despite the change in its membership. As there is no winding up of the partnership, the change in membership does not give rise to any supplies or acquisition from one partnership to another partnership.

173. The GST consequences of a reconstituted partnership for the partners will depend on the circumstances of the reconstitution. A reconstitution may result from a partner selling or assigning their interest in the partnership. Alternatively, a change in membership may occur without any sale or assignment by a partner of their interest in the partnership.

Sale or assignment of an interest in a partnership - partner to partner transaction

174. A sale or assignment of an interest in a partnership may be made by a continuing partner to an incoming partner, or by an outgoing partner to either a continuing or an incoming partner. The supply is a partner-to-partner transaction and does not involve the creation or supply of any new interest by the partnership. Such a sale or assignment is a supply by the partner of a financial interest, and is a financial supply if the requirements of Subregulation 40-5.09(1) are satisfied. If the partner making the supply is unregistered, or the supply is not made in the course or furtherance of an enterprise carried on by the partner, no GST consequence arises in relation to the supply.^[F108]

No sale or assignment of interests - partnership transaction

175. A reconstituted partnership may also involve the creation and supply by the partnership of a new interest in the partnership, rather than the supply of an existing interest by a partner. The GST consequences of such a reconstitution for the partnership, the outgoing partner and the incoming partner are set out in the following paragraphs.

Outgoing partner and partnership

176. For a retiring or deceased partner (the outgoing partner), the crystallisation of their interest in the partnership as a debt is not as a consequence of a supply of any new financial interest by the partnership.^[F109] A partner's interest in a partnership includes a right to share the surplus (if any) after repayment of debts and other liabilities. This right is acquired when the partnership is formed, or when the partner joins the partnership. The crystallisation is of a right that the partner already has, and is not a new right that is acquired.

177. The crystallisation of the interest in the partnership as a debt results in the extinguishment of the outgoing partner's interest in the partnership. Following this extinguishment, there is an increase in each of the continuing partners' fractional interest in the partnership. This increase is a consequence of the extinguishment of the outgoing partner's interest and does not involve a supply of any new or additional interests in the partnership by the partnership.

Incoming partner and partnership

178. Where a reconstitution results from the addition of a new partner (the incoming partner), there is a supply of a new interest in the partnership by the partnership to the incoming partner. It is a supply of a financial interest in the course or furtherance of the enterprise carried on by the partnership. If the other requirements of Subregulation 40-5.09(1) are satisfied, it is a financial supply.

179. Consideration for the supply of the new interest is the capital contribution made by the incoming partner^[F110] or the promise to provide labour, skills or services in the conduct of the partnership business.

180. In these circumstances, there will be a reduction, by way of extinguishment, in the interests of the continuing partners, which does not involve a supply by them.

Change in the legal ownership of property upon a transfer of a partnership interest

181. As partnerships are not recognised as separate legal entities, legal title in partnership property is held by the partners. Regardless of legal title, each partner has a beneficial interest in each and every partnership asset. The partner or partners holding legal title do so on trust for themselves and the other partners, that is, the partnership.

182. A supply of an interest in a partnership by a partner may require the outgoing partner to effect a change in legal title or interest in partnership assets. The acquiring partner acquires the beneficial and legal interests under the supply of the interests in the partnership. For GST purposes, the transfer of the legal interest does not involve any separate supply by the outgoing partner.

183. Any supply of partnership property would be by the partnership. Therefore, where property stays in the partnership, there is no supply as the supply and acquisition would be by the partnership.

GST liabilities and obligations of partners before and after reconstitution

184. Retiring partners are only responsible for the GST liabilities and obligations of the partnership before reconstitution and not for any after its reconstitution. Similarly, new partners are only responsible for the GST liabilities and obligations of the partnership after its reconstitution and not for any liabilities and obligations before its reconstitution. However, the continuing partners are responsible for the GST liabilities and obligations of the partnership both before and after reconstitution.^[F111]

185. The acceptance of a reconstituted partnership and the fact that it retains its existing GST registration makes it prudent for reconstituted partnership and the retiring partner or partners to inform the Commissioner of the change in the membership of the partnership. Where there is a failure to notify the Commissioner of a change in the membership of a general law partnership, recovery action may be contemplated against a retired partner for any unpaid GST liabilities arising after the reconstitution of the partnership.

186. The notification may be made by the retiring partner, the personal representative of a deceased partner, or the continuing partners and any incoming partner, or by a person authorised by those parties to deal with the Commissioner in relation to their GST affairs. In the case of a large partnership, a managing partner with the consent and authorisation of all partners, retiring, continuing or incoming, may make the notification.

One partner acquires all the other interests in the partnership and continues as a single entity

187. Where one partner takes over the business of the partnership, this is usually achieved by the purchase of the other partners' interests in the partnership.

188. It makes no difference whether the sale or assignment of an interest in a partnership by an outgoing partner is to either an incoming or a continuing partner. Therefore, where one partner acquires the partnership interests of all the other partners, the outgoing partners make supplies of financial interests to the acquiring partner. The supplies by the outgoing partners, and the acquisition-supply by the acquiring partner, will be financial supplies if the requirements of Subregulation 40-5.09(1) are met.

189. By acquiring all of the other partnership interests, the acquiring partner effectively takes over all of the assets and liabilities of the partnership^[F112] and carries on the enterprise in its own right.

190. Upon the supply of all the other interests in the partnership to the acquiring partner, the partnership is dissolved. Since the partnership is no longer carrying on the enterprise, the partnership GST registration (and ABN) must be cancelled. The purchaser may apply for a new GST registration (and ABN) and must do so if it is required to be registered.

Cancellation of Registration

191. A partnership may choose to cancel its GST registration if it no longer meets the registration turnover threshold.^[F113] However, a partnership is entitled to retain its GST registration until it has ceased to carry on its enterprise. This will be when the final distributions are made to the partners upon the winding up of the partnership.^[F114] At this time, the partnership ceases to exist for the purposes of the GST Act.

192. Under subsection 25-55(2), the Commissioner must cancel the partnership's registration, even if no application is made:

•

if the Commissioner is satisfied that the partnership is not carrying on an enterprise; and

•

the Commissioner believes on reasonable grounds that the partnership is unlikely to carry on an enterprise for at least twelve months.

Detailed contents list

193. Below is a detailed contents list for this Goods and Services Tax Ruling:

Commissioner of Taxation
29 October 2003

Previously released in draft form as GSTR 2003/D4.

References

ATO references:
NO 2003/003276

Related Rulings/Determinations:

GSTR 1999/1
GSTB 2000/2
MT 2000/1
GSTD 2000/8
GSTD 2003/2
GSTR 2000/15
GSTR 2000/17
GSTR 2000/24
GSTR 2001/7
GSTR 2002/2
GSTR 2002/5
TR 94/8

Subject References:
acquisitions
acquisition-supplies
adjustments
adjustment notes
apply
associates
association of persons
cancellation of registration
capacity as a partner
carrying on an enterprise
carrying on business
change in creditable purpose
consideration
continuity clauses
creditable acquisitions
creditable purpose
entity
extinguishment of interest in a partnership
financial interest
financial supplies
financial supply provider
formation of a partnership
general dissolution of a partnership
general law partnership
going concerns
goods own use
GST
GST-free supplies
in kind capital contributions
in the course or furtherance of an enterprise
input taxed supplies
interests in a partnership
interest in the capital of a partnership
interest under the capital of a partnership
operation of partnership
partners
partnerships
private or domestic
projected GST turnover
receipt of income jointly
reconstituted partnership
registration
reimbursements
supplies
surrender of an interest in a partnership
tax invoices
tax law partnership
taxable supplies
technical dissolution of a partnership
winding up of a partnership

Legislative References:
ANTS(GST) A99 9-5
ANTS(GST) A99 9-10(4)
ANTS(GST) A99 9-15(1)
ANTS(GST) A99 9-20(1)(a)
ANTS(GST) A99 9-20(2)(c)
ANTS(GST) A99 11-5
ANTS(GST) A99 11-5(b)
ANTS(GST) A99 11-15(2)(a)
ANTS(GST) A99 11-30
ANTS(GST) A99 17
ANTS(GST) A99 19-40
ANTS(GST) A99 19-70
ANTS(GST) A99 23-5
ANTS(GST) A99 23-10(2)
ANTS(GST) A99 23-15
ANTS(GST) A99 25-54(5)
ANTS(GST) A99 25-55(2)
ANTS(GST) A99 27-40
ANTS(GST) A99 19-10(3)
ANTS(GST) A99 29-25
ANTS(GST) A99 29-70
ANTS(GST) A99 29-70(1)
ANTS(GST) A99 29-70(1)(b)
ANTS(GST) A99 29-75(1)
ANTS(GST) A99 29-80
ANTS(GST) A99 38-325
ANTS(GST) A99 38-325(1)
ANTS(GST) A99 38-325(2)
ANTS(GST) A99 Sub-div 40-A
ANTS(GST) A99 40-5
ANTS(GST) A99 Div 72
ANTS(GST) A99 Sub-div 72-A
ANTS(GST) A99 72-1
ANTS(GST) A99 72-10
ANTS(GST) A99 Sub-div 72-C
ANTS(GST) A99 72-70
ANTS(GST) A99 72-70(1)
ANTS(GST) A99 Div 111
ANTS(GST) A99 111-5(3A)
ANTS(GST) A99 111-15
ANTS(GST) A99 Div 129
ANTS(GST) A99 129-20
ANTS(GST) A99 129-50(2)(a)
ANTS(GST) A99 129-55
ANTS(GST) A99 Div 130
ANTS(GST) A99 Div 138
ANTS(GST) A99 138-5(1)
ANTS(GST) A99 184-1(1)
ANTS(GST) A99 184-1(1)(e)
ANTS(GST) A99 184-5(1)
ANTS(GST) A99 188-25
ANTS(GST) A99 195-1
ANTS(GST) R99 29-70.01
ANTS(GST) R99 29-70.01(2)
ANTS(GST) R99 29-70.01(3)
ANTS(GST) R99 29-70.01(3c)
ANTS(GST) R99 Div 40
ANTS(GST) R99 40-5.02
ANTS(GST) R99 40-5.06(1)(b)
ANTS(GST) R99 40-5.06(2)
ANTS(GST) R99 40-5.09
ANTS(GST) R99 40-5.09(1)
ANTS(GST) R99 40-5.09(3)
ANTS(GST) R99 40-5.09(3) item 2
ANTS(GST) R99 40-5.09(3) item 10
ANTS(GST) R99 40-5.11
ANTS(GSTT) A99 17
ITAA 1936 6(1)
ITAA 1936 90
ITAA 1936 91
ITAA 1936 92
ITAA 1936 318
ITAA 1997 995-1
TAA 1953 37
TAA 1953 50
Corporations Act 2001 92(1)
Acts Interpretation Act 15AA
Partnership Act ACT 6(1)
Partnership Act ACT 38(1)
Partnership Act ACT 44
Partnership Act NSW 1(1)
Partnership Act NSW 38
Partnership Act NSW 33(1)
Partnership Act NT 5(1)
Partnership Act NT 37(1)
Partnership Act NT 42
Partnership Act QLD 5(1)
Partnership Act QLD 36(1)
Partnership Act QLD 41(1)
Partnership Act SA 1(1)
Partnership Act SA 33(1)
Partnership Act SA 38
Partnership Act TAS 6(1)
Partnership Act TAS 38(1)
Partnership Act TAS 43
Partnership Act VIC 5(1)
Partnership Act VIC 37(1)
Partnership Act VIC 42
Partnership Act WA 7(1)
Partnership Act WA 44(1)
Partnership Act WA 49

Case References:
Abbott v. Abbott
(1936) 3 All ER 823

Adam v Newbigging
(1888) 13 App. Case 308 per Lord Halsbury at 315
A.R.M Constructions Corporation Ltd & Ors v. FC of T
87 ATC 4790
19 ATR 337
Bakewell v. DCT
(1937) 58 CLR 743
Cameron v. Murdoch
[1983] WAR 321
Cameron v. Murdoch
63 ALR 575
(1986) 60 ALJR 280
Canny Gabriel Castle Advertising Pty Ltd and anor v. Volume Sales (Finance) Pty Ltd
(1974) 131 CLR 321
3 ALR 409
Chia & Ors v. Ireland SCGRG-99-648
(2000) SASC 47 (3 March 2000)
Commissioners for General Purposes of Income Tax for City of London v. Gibbs and Others
[1942] AC 402
FC of T v. Beville
10 ATD 170
5 AITR 458
FC of T v. Everett
(1980) 143 CLR 440
80 ATC 4076
10 ATR 608
FC of T v. Jeffries
80 ATC 4659
11 ATR 429
49 FLR 385
FC of T v. J.D. Roberts, FC of T v. Smith
(1992) 108 ALR 385
92 ATC 4380
23 ATR 494
FC of T v. Sahhar
85 ATC 4072
5 FCR 247
59 ALR 98
16 ATR 208
FC of T v. Walsh (P.J. and B.J.)
83 ATC 4415
14 ATR 399
48 ALR 253
Hadlee and Sydney Bridge Nominees Ltd v. Commissioner of Inland Revenue M171/88
11 NZTC 6155
FC of T v. Happ
(1952) 5 AITR 290
9 ATD 449
Kelly v. IRC
(1970) NZLR 161
1 ATR 380
Ringthane Pty Ltd v Commissioner of State Taxation (WA)
93 ATC 4824
26 ATR 489
Rowe v. FC of T
82 ATC 4243
13 ATR 110
Rowella Pty Ltd v. Abfam Nominees Pty Ltd
(1989) 64 ALJR 121
89 ALR 513
(1989) 168 CLR 301
S.J. Mackie Pty Ltd v. Dalziell Medical Practice Pty Ltd
(1989) 2 QD. R 87
Sobell v. Boston and Others
(1975) 1WLR 1587
Swiss Air Transport Co Ltd v. Palmer
(1976)2 Lloyd's rep 604
Tikva Investments Pty Ltd v. FC of T
72 ATC 4231
128 CLR 158
3 ATR 458
United Dominions Corporation Ltd v. Brian Pty Ltd
(1985) 157 CLR 1
60 ALR 741
TRA Case 6
(1988) 12 TRNZ 107
Case K 55
10 NZTC 453
TRA Case 28
(1991) 15 TRNZ 952
Case N 48
13 NZTC 3361