How to complete your Australian tax return

Now that the financial year in Australia has ended, it’s time to start thinking about your tax return. This guide will explain who needs to lodge a tax return and how to complete it.  

Do I need to lodge a tax return?  

If you’ve earned money in Australia, you will most likely need to lodge a tax return. This includes all kinds of work – part-time, full-time and casual.  

The tax-free threshold is currently set at $18,200. This means that you don’t pay any income tax on earning up to $18,200 or less in a financial year (1 July – 30 June). You need to lodge a tax return if:  

• you had any tax taken out of your pay 
• you want to claim any tax deductions. 

When you may not need to lodge a tax return 

• If you didn't earn any income. 
• If your total income is below the tax-free threshold and no tax was withheld by your employer.  
• If all your income is exempt from tax (for example, some scholarships) you may not need to lodge a tax return. 

What if I’m here for less than 6 months? 

If you are studying in Australia for less than 6 months, you will probably be considered a non-resident for Australian tax purposes.  

• You will still need to lodge a tax return declaring any Australian income you earned.  
• You won't be entitled to the tax-free threshold. This means, you will pay tax at a higher rate than non-residents.  

Find out if you are considered a non-resident here.  

When and how to lodge your tax return 

The Australian financial year runs from 1 July to 30 June. You need to lodge your tax return between 30 June – 31 October. It’s important to lodge your tax return on time. If you don’t, the ATO may apply a penalty.

Here are some steps to get you started:  

1. Gather your documents: You’ll need your PAYG payment summary, which is usually found in your myGov account after 1 July. If not, ask your employer. You will also need receipts for any work-related expenses. (See below to find out what types of expenses you can claim.) 
2. Use myTax: Lodge your tax return online using the Australian Taxation Office’s (ATO) myTax system. You will need to access myTax through your myGov account.  
3. Complete your return: Follow the prompts to enter your income, deductions and other relevant information. 
4. Submit your return: Once you have completed the details you can submit it online. You will receive a Notice of Assessment from the ATO which will tell you if you owe any tax or if you will get a refund.