What does "pay as you go" (PAYG) withholding involve in the ATO Green Book?

"Pay as you go" (PAYG) withholding is primarily a system where employers are required to withhold a portion of an employee's income for tax purposes. This mechanism is integral to the tax system in Australia, as it helps ensure that individuals pay their tax liabilities gradually throughout the year instead of in a lump sum at year-end. By withholding tax from salaries, employers effectively act as intermediaries between the employees and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), remitting these withheld amounts to the ATO on behalf of their employees.

This process aids in maintaining a steady cash flow into the government’s revenue system and reduces the financial burden on employees when they file their tax returns, as taxes are already partially prepaid. It contrasts with other options which relate to different aspects of the tax system, such as self-reporting or year-end payment methods.