The company behind Anason at Barangaroo, a Turkish restaurant established by MasterChef Turkiye judge Somer Sivrioglu, has entered voluntary administration owing over $2 million to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). The business, operated by Sivrioglu Pty Ltd, opened in 2015 and is known for its upscale Turkish-inspired cuisine.

Financial documents lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) reveal the company’s tax debt amounts to approximately $2.06 million. Sivrioglu, who manages his enterprises from Turkey, described his situation as one of prolonged financial difficulty spanning around five years. He characterised the restaurant as successful but acknowledged the challenges in meeting tax obligations during this period.

“I’ve been in survival mode and serious financial hardship,” Sivrioglu said, noting that efforts to restructure the business and negotiate with the ATO were unsuccessful. He explained that the company applied for small-business restructuring, incurring a $25,000 fee, but the application was declined without a clear explanation. Following this, a request for a 30-month repayment plan was made, but after waiting more than four months without response, wind-up proceedings were initiated by the ATO.

Faced with this situation, Sivrioglu appointed voluntary administrators to manage the company’s affairs. Despite entering administration, the restaurant continues to operate as usual. Sivrioglu emphasized that the business does not owe money to suppliers, employees, or any other creditors, with its sole outstanding liability being the tax debt owed to the ATO.

The developments highlight ongoing challenges faced by hospitality businesses managing financial and tax obligations amid economic pressures. While the company seeks to resolve its issues, the outcome of negotiations with the tax office and the administration process remains pending.