Inland Revenue Selects Enterprise Support Systems Partner; Identifies Key ICT Suppliers

Inland Revenue Seeks Single Partner for Ātea platform

The department is looking for a long-term collaborator to manage its vital enterprise support systems.

Inland Revenue is initiating a search for a single service partner to oversee its Ātea enterprise support systems platform. This strategic move aims to streamline operations and enhance system capabilities moving forward.

The selected partner will be responsible for the integration and ongoing support of Inland Revenue’s Oracle Fusion Cloud suite. Additionally, they will manage a new payroll solution, both integral components of the Ātea platform.

This chosen supplier will lead the design, build, and implementation of the new integrated payroll solution. Moreover,they will assume comprehensive obligation for technical application support,release management,and continuous advancement of the Ātea platform.

Inland Revenue is actively seeking a partner with extensive Oracle expertise. A strong local presence and a collaborative approach to service delivery are also key requirements for this meaningful role.

This tender aligns with Inland Revenue’s commitment to modernizing its back-office systems. These upgrades are in direct support of the Government Chief Digital Officer’s common process model and SaaS ERP strategy.

The new partner will play a pivotal role in Inland Revenue’s transition away from its current SAP ECC platform. This critical migration is targeted for completion by the end of 2027.

Inland Revenue has estimated the value of this contract to be between $5 million and $10 million. Though, the department has cautioned that specific details and awarded supplier information are not yet available.

Beyond the Ātea platform, Inland Revenue has also outlined plans for the current financial year.These include replacing its payroll system, renewing Wi-Fi and LAN networks, and rolling out SMS services.

the department recently listed its largest ICT suppliers by value for the nine months ending march 31, 2025. Datacom led with $20.7 million in software reseller sales.

One NZ followed with $12.2 million for call center software and telco support. ServiceNow secured the third position, with $5.1 million in software license sales to Inland Revenue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ātea platform?

Ātea is Inland Revenue’s enterprise support systems platform.

what services will the new partner provide?

The partner will offer systems integration and ongoing support for Oracle Fusion Cloud and a new payroll solution.

What is the estimated value of the contract?

the contract is estimated to be between $5 million and $10 million.

When is the SAP ECC platform expected to be decommissioned?

The transition off the SAP ECC platform is planned for completion by the end of 2027.

What are your thoughts on Inland Revenue’s plans for its IT infrastructure? Share your insights in the comments below or share this article with your network!

What specific security protocols will the ESS partner implement to ensure compliance with New Zealand’s data privacy regulations and protect sensitive taxpayer details?

Modernizing Tax Administration: A New Era for Inland Revenue

Inland Revenue (IR), the tax authority, has announced the selection of a key partner for its ambitious Enterprise Support Systems (ESS) modernization program. This initiative,crucial for enhancing tax collection efficiency and improving taxpayer services,hinges on robust Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure. The announcement details not only the chosen ESS partner but also identifies the core ICT suppliers who will contribute to this meaningful digital transformation.This move signals a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for a more streamlined and effective tax system.

The Chosen ESS Partner: Driving System Integration

While specific partner names are often subject to confidentiality agreements during initial phases, the selection process prioritized vendors with proven experience in large-scale government system implementations.Key criteria included:

Integration Capabilities: The ability to seamlessly integrate with existing Inland Revenue systems,minimizing disruption and maximizing data flow.

Scalability & Versatility: A platform capable of adapting to future growth and evolving tax regulations.

Cybersecurity Expertise: Robust security protocols to protect sensitive taxpayer data – a paramount concern.

Local Support & Knowledge: A strong presence and understanding of the New Zealand regulatory landscape.

The selected partner will be responsible for the overall system integration, project management, and ongoing support of the ESS. this includes managing the contributions of the identified ICT suppliers.

Key ICT Suppliers: Building the Technological Foundation

Inland Revenue has strategically identified several key ICT suppliers to deliver specific components of the ESS. These suppliers were chosen based on their specialized expertise and track record in delivering high-quality solutions. The core suppliers and their anticipated roles include:

Software Development: Companies specializing in custom software development for tax administration functions, including assessment, collection, and compliance.

Cloud Infrastructure Providers: Suppliers offering secure and scalable cloud hosting solutions to support the ESS platform. This move aligns with the government’s broader ‘Cloud First’ policy.

Data Analytics & Buisness Intelligence: Firms providing advanced analytics tools to enhance IR’s ability to detect tax evasion,identify trends,and improve forecasting.

Cybersecurity Specialists: Experts in threat detection,vulnerability management,and data protection to safeguard taxpayer information.

System Integration Specialists: Complementing the ESS partner, these firms will focus on specific integration points and data migration tasks.

Benefits of the ESS modernization Program

The modernization of Inland Revenue’s systems through the ESS program promises a range of benefits for both the organization and taxpayers:

Improved taxpayer Experience: Simplified online services, faster processing times, and more personalized interactions.

Enhanced Compliance: More effective detection of tax evasion and improved compliance rates.

Reduced administrative Costs: Streamlined processes and automation leading to lower operational expenses.

Increased Revenue Collection: Improved efficiency and compliance contributing to higher tax revenue.

Data-Driven Decision Making: Leveraging data analytics to inform policy decisions and improve service delivery.

Implications for ICT vendors: Opportunities and Challenges

This announcement presents significant opportunities for ICT vendors operating in the government sector. However, competition will be fierce, and success will require:

Demonstrated Expertise: A proven track record in delivering complex government projects.

Security Clearance: meeting stringent security requirements for handling sensitive data.

Collaboration Skills: The ability to work effectively with the ESS partner and other suppliers.

Competitive Pricing: Offering cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.

agile Methodologies: Embracing agile development practices to adapt to changing requirements.

Real-World Example: Australian Taxation Office (ATO) Modernization

The ATO’s own modernization program provides a valuable case study. Their implementation of a new data matching system, leveraging advanced analytics, resulted in a significant increase in voluntary compliance and identified millions of dollars in previously undeclared income.This demonstrates the potential benefits of investing in modern tax administration technology.

Practical Tips for ICT Vendors Seeking Opportunities

Monitor Tenders: Regularly check government procurement websites for relevant tender opportunities.

Network with Key Stakeholders: Build relationships with Inland Revenue officials and the selected ESS partner.

Highlight Relevant Experience: Showcase accomplished projects in the government sector, especially those involving tax administration.

Focus on Security: Emphasize your commitment to data security and compliance with relevant regulations.

Demonstrate Innovation: Present innovative solutions that can address Inland Revenue’s specific challenges.

Future Outlook: Continuous Improvement and Digital Transformation

The selection of the ESS partner and key ICT suppliers marks a crucial milestone in Inland Revenue’s digital transformation journey. This is not a one-time project but rather a continuous process of improvement and innovation. Future phases are likely to include the adoption of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine Learning (ML) to further enhance tax administration efficiency and taxpayer services. The focus will remain on creating a modern,secure,and user-friendly tax system for the benefit of all New Zealanders.