Farzeen Anwar
Partner, Melbourne
As a Partner in MinterEllison’s Tax Controversy team, I assist large businesses and high-wealth individuals through all stages of taxation disputes, from Australian Taxation Office (ATO) risk reviews and audits through to litigation.

As part of my practice, I also represent the ATO in tax appeals in the Federal Court of Australia and the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). This includes appeals under Part IVC of the Taxation Administration Act 1953 (Cth). I am also experienced in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) of taxation disputes and ADR processes.

Whether acting for or against, I maintain a strong working relationship with the ATO. This ensures I can help my clients effectively manage their relationship with the ATO and resolve disputes at the earliest opportunity.

Career highlights

  • Acted as instructing solicitor for the Commissioner of Taxation in various proceedings in the Federal Court and the AAT
  • Prepared objections to assessments in relation to Part IVA and other anti-avoidance provisions
  • Advised and represented clients in relation to ATO compliance risk reviews and audits, including providing strategic audit advice, preparing submissions and resolving ATO enquiries
  • Mediated disputes with the ATO and settled negotiations
  • Worked on major transfer pricing disputes, including gathering audit evidence and managing litigation
  • Advised high-wealth individuals and small and medium-sized enterprises on ATO position papers
  • Provided strategic advice and conducted litigation at the AAT and the Federal Court on behalf of the ATO in the following matters:
    • Sole Luna Pty Ltd as Trustee for the PA Wade No 2 Settlement Trust and Another v Commissioner of Taxation [2019] FCA 1195
    • GYBW v Commissioner of Taxation [2019] AATA 4262
    • Nguyen v Commissioner of Taxation [2018] FCA 1420
    • Deputy Commissioner of Taxation v Arico (No.2) [2017] VSC 746
    • Nguyen v Commissioner of Taxation [2016] AATA 1041
    • Commissioner of Taxation v Haritos & Ors – Special leave application to the High Court
    • Haritos & Ors v Commissioner of Taxation [2015] FCAFC 92
    • Haritos & Ors v Commissioner of Taxation [2014] FCA
    • Confidential v Commissioner of Taxation [2013] AATA12
    • Mitsui & Co (Australia) v Federal Commissioner of Taxation [2012] FCAFC 109
    • Mitsui & Co (Australia) v Federal Commissioner of Taxation [2011] FCA 1423