ATO acting deputy commissioner Andrew Watson said over 70 per cent of businesses had made the switch by mid-July, with over 505,000 activity statements now lodged through Online services for business, but was concerned to see a number of industries continuing to lag behind.

These industries include building and construction; manufacturing; professional, scientific and technical services; retail and trade; and financial and insurance services.

Mr Watson has now urged businesses in these industries to transition before the deadline to familiarise themselves with the improved online experience.

“Compared to the Business Portal, those using Online services for business are gaining the benefits of improved navigation and greater functionality and a more contemporary service to manage their tax and super obligations faster and more securely online,” said Mr Watson.

“The ATO is continually striving to improve the end-to-end digital experience, and the sooner businesses make the switch, the more time they have to become acquainted with the new service and benefit from the improved features.”

According to the ATO, the new service will allow business owners to switch between ABNs with a single login, manage payments and create payment plans, and lodge and revise their business activity statements.

Businesses will also be able to view and print tax returns and income tax history, manage their tax registration details and view Single Touch Payroll reports.