Every year, more than 10 million Australians go through the ordeal of the tax season, hoping to get their refunds while avoiding some common pitfalls like denied deductions.
The receipts accumulate, the income slips through the cracks, and the deadlines approaching—soon, filing tax returns feels like a maze to solve. Whether you are working part-time or claiming home office hours, one mistake can cut your tax payout or raise concerns with the ATO.
This guide makes it simple to understand how to lodge tax return in Australia, who is eligible, key deadlines, tax agent extensions, and easy prep tips must. You’ll also learn how to claim the right deductions, keep clear records, and file your tax return in Australia with confidence and less stress.
Do You Need to Lodge a Tax Return?
Not everyone in Australia must lodge an ATO online tax return, but most working adults do. The rule is simple: if you earned income during the financial year or had tax withheld from your pay, you must lodge.
You Need to Lodge If You:
- Earned more than $18,200 in taxable income.
- Had tax withheld from any of your earnings, even if below the threshold.
- Received government payments, allowances, or pensions.
- Ran a small business, side hustle, or earned from freelancing.
- Made a capital gain from selling assets like property, shares, or crypto.
- Claimed deductions or offsets and want your refund processed
When You Don’t Need to Lodge
You can skip lodging if your total income was below the tax-free threshold, you had no tax withheld, and you’re not claiming any deductions or offsets. In that case, you must submit a Non-Lodgment Advice to the ATO, so they know you’re exempt.
Key Deadlines to Note
Being aware of your tax due dates could mean that you avoid penalties. The tax year for Australia is from 1 July to 30 June annually, and every year, the ATO begins to accept tax lodgements from early July.
Key Dates to Remember
- 1 July: The tax season begins.
- 31 October: Tax deadline for most individuals who file their own returns.
- 15 May (next year): Extended deadline if you are a client of a registered tax agent, but you need to register with them before 31 October.
If you are late in observing the deadline, ATO may impose the Fee for Failure to Lodge on Time (FTL). This begins at approximately $222 for every 28 days that you are late, up to a maximum of $1,110.
4 Ways to Lodge Your Return
To lodge tax return online is now easier than ever. You can choose from several methods depending on how complex your finances are and how confident you feel about doing it yourself.
1. myTax via myGov
This is the fastest and most popular option for most people.
- Cost: Free
- How it works: Log into your myGov account and link it to the ATO. Most of your details—like income, interest, and private health—are already pre-filled.
- Best for: People with simple tax affairs who prefer to lodge online.
- Processing time: Usually within two weeks.
2. Registered Tax Agent
A registered tax agent can prepare and lodge your return for you.
- Cost: Around $100–$400 (tax-deductible next year).
- Benefits: Agents know ATO rules, find hidden deductions, and help avoid mistakes.
- Bonus: If you register before 31 October, agents often get extended deadlines up to 15 May next year.
For ATO-compliant lodgment, Aupod’s online tax service is a trusted choice. Our registered tax accountants handle everything—from income checks to deduction claims—so you can file your return accurately and on time.
3. Paper Lodgment
If you prefer paper, you can still request a tax return form from the ATO.
- Cost: Free
- Downside: It’s slower and can take up to 50 days to process.
- Best for: People who are not comfortable with digital tools.
4. ATO Tax Help Program
If you earn around $60,000 or less, the ATO offers a Tax Help Program run by trained volunteers.
- Cost: Free
- Benefit: Free guidance on simple returns, step by step
The right option largely depends on the complexity of your situation. Using a tax agent will be worth the investment if your income, deductions, or assets are complicated.
Your Tax Prep Checklist Before Deadlines Hit
Early preparation makes the tax season smooth and stress-free. Small tips can save you from those last-minute errors and delays when you lodge tax return online in Australia or choose a lodge tax return near you.
1. Gather All Income Records
Collect documents that show what you earned during the financial year:
- PAYG summaries or income statements from employers
- Bank interest and dividend statements
- Investment income and rental property details
- Government payments or allowances
- Business or freelance income if you worked for yourself
2. Organize Deduction Receipts
Keep receipts or invoices for every expense you plan to claim. Common deductions include:
- Work-related expenses (tools, uniforms, home office costs)
- Car and travel records if used for work
- Donations to registered charities
- Self-education or training expenses
- Tax agent fees from last year
3. Review Your Super and Private Health
Check your super contributions and private health insurance details. These records may qualify you for rebates or reduce your tax bill.
4. Wait for ATO Pre-Fill
Most information from employers, banks, and insurers appears in myTax by late July. Waiting ensures accuracy and reduces the chance of missing data or needing amendments later.
5. Update Bank and Contact Details
Your bank account and contact information must be correct so your refund reaches you without delay.
Lodging Late Tax Return in Australia? Here’s How to Fix
Missed the deadline? Don’t panic. Many Australians lodge late each year, and the ATO allows you to catch up if you act fast and stay honest about your situation.
1. Lodge as Soon as Possible
Even if you can’t pay right away, it’s better to lodge first. The ATO issues penalties for late lodgement starting from about $222 for every 28 days overdue, up to $1,110.
2. Contact the ATO or Use a Tax Agent
If you’re more than one year behind, call the Australian Taxation Office or reach out to a registered tax agent. Agents often have direct ATO channels and can negotiate extensions or payment plans on your behalf.
3. Gather Old Records
Collect your old income statements, bank records, and deduction receipts for each missed year. Even if you’ve lost some, your employer or bank can usually help retrieve them.
4. Use myTax or Professional Help
You can lodge past returns through myTax for up to five years. However, if you owe money or multiple returns are pending, a professional agent can guide you safely through the backlog and reduce ATO penalties.
5. Plan for Next Year
Once your late return is accepted, mark the new deadlines in your calendar. Consider using a tax agent next year for automatic reminders and extended time frames.
Get Help from a Registered Tax Agent
Filing ATO online tax return doesn’t need to be complicated. Professional tax agents make the process faster, safer, and more accurate by checking every detail before you lodge.
With Aupod’s registered tax agents, you get expert help to lodge tax return in Australia peacefully. Our team prepares, reviews, and lodges your return online with complete ATO compliance. Whether you’re early or running late, we help you claim all eligible deductions, avoid penalties, and maximize your refund — quickly and securely.
