Do You Need to Lodge a Tax Return?

Most Australian residents who earn income during a financial year (1 July to 30 June) are required to lodge a tax return with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). This includes employees, self-employed individuals, investors, and some retirees. Even if your income is below the tax-free threshold, you may still need to lodge to receive a refund of withheld tax or to confirm you owe nothing.

If you're unsure whether you need to lodge, the ATO's online tool "Do I need to lodge a tax return?" can help you work it out.

Key Dates to Know

  • Financial year end: 30 June
  • Deadline to lodge yourself: 31 October (for the previous financial year)
  • Extended deadline with a registered tax agent: May be extended — confirm with your agent

Ways to Lodge Your Tax Return

1. myTax (Online via myGov)

The easiest and most common method for individuals is myTax, the ATO's free online lodgement tool. You access it through your myGov account. myTax pre-fills much of your information — including employer income, bank interest, and government payments — saving you time and reducing errors.

2. Registered Tax Agent

A registered tax agent (accountant) can lodge on your behalf. This is particularly useful for complex tax situations, such as investment properties, business income, or significant work-related deductions. Tax agents must be registered with the Tax Practitioners Board.

3. Paper Tax Return

You can request a paper tax return from the ATO, though this is increasingly uncommon and takes longer to process.

What You'll Need Before You Start

  • Your Tax File Number (TFN)
  • Income statements or payment summaries from employers
  • Bank interest statements
  • Records of government payments (e.g., Centrelink)
  • Private health insurance statement (if applicable)
  • Receipts or records for deductions you intend to claim

Common Deductions You May Be Able to Claim

Deductions reduce your taxable income, which can lower the amount of tax you owe or increase your refund. Common deductions include:

  • Work-related expenses – tools, uniforms, protective clothing, home office expenses
  • Self-education expenses – course fees and materials that relate directly to your current job
  • Vehicle and travel expenses – travel between work sites (not home to work)
  • Union or professional association fees
  • Donations – gifts of $2 or more to deductible gift recipients (DGRs)
  • Tax agent fees – the cost of preparing last year's return

Important: You must have records (receipts, invoices, or diary entries) to substantiate any deduction you claim. The ATO can request evidence during an audit.

The Low Income Tax Offset (LITO) and Medicare Levy

The Low Income Tax Offset reduces the amount of tax payable for lower-income earners. It is automatically applied when you lodge your return. Separately, the Medicare Levy (currently 2% of taxable income) funds Australia's public healthcare system. If your income is below a certain threshold, you may be exempt or receive a reduction.

What Happens After You Lodge?

After lodging, the ATO will process your return and issue a Notice of Assessment. This document shows your taxable income, the tax payable, and whether you're due a refund or owe a tax debt. Refunds are generally deposited into your nominated bank account within two weeks for online lodgements.

Getting Help

The ATO offers free tax help through the Tax Help program — a network of community volunteers who assist people with simple tax affairs, particularly those on low incomes, seniors, and people with limited English. Visit the ATO website (ato.gov.au) to find a Tax Help centre near you.