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Ethan James

Former Liberal politician facing tax offences

Adam Brooks has pleaded not guilty to allegations he didn't file tax income documents. (Rob Blakers/AAP PHOTOS)

A former Tasmanian Liberal government minister is facing charges for allegedly failing to file income tax returns as legally required.

Adam Richard Brooks has pleaded not guilty to four counts of failing to comply with a requirement under taxation law. 

He served as an MP in the seat of Braddon from 2010 to 2019 and was re-elected in 2021 but stood down directly after the poll following a tumultuous campaign. 

The complaint, brought by the Australian Taxation Office, alleged Brooks failed to provide his income tax returns for financial years ending in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021. 

Rapid Fleet Management, a company where Brooks had held the role of director, is facing 26 counts of failing to furnish an approved form. 

The matter was mentioned alongside Brooks' in Devonport Magistrates Court on Wednesday. 

The company also pleaded not guilty to all charges, with both matters adjourned until July 2. 

Rapid Fleet Management is accused of failing to provide GST returns from 2017 to 2021. 

Brooks, who was granted bail, held the mining, racing and building and construction portfolios during his time in politics.

He stepped down from ministerial positions in 2016 after conflict of interest concerns which were subsequently cleared by an independent inquiry. 

Brooks resigned from parliament in 2019 after a report by Tasmania's Integrity Commission was critical of his use of a business email.

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