Tax year and lodgment deadlines
| Deadline | What is due | Who it affects |
|---|---|---|
| 30 June | End of the financial year | Everyone |
| 31 October | Individual tax return if you lodge it yourself | Individuals and sole traders lodging without a tax agent |
| Later dates on the agent program | Return lodged through a registered tax agent | People on a tax agent's list before 31 October |
| 28th of the month after each quarter (usually) | Business activity statement (BAS) and PAYG instalments | Businesses registered for GST or in the PAYG instalment system |
What can I claim as a deduction?
You can claim expenses directly related to earning your income, as long as you were not reimbursed and you have records. Common claims include:
- Work-from-home costs, using the method the ATO allows for the year.
- Vehicle and travel costs for work, not for commuting.
- Tools, equipment and self-education related to your current job.
- Gifts to deductible gift recipients and the cost of managing your tax affairs.
Upload receipts to TaxOrch and it sorts them into claims with the ATO rule behind each. Try the deduction finder.
Sole traders and your ABN
A sole trader uses an Australian Business Number (ABN) and reports business income and expenses in the business schedule of their individual return. Tax is not withheld from most ABN income, so the ATO may put you into PAYG instalments once you have a tax bill.
- Quote your ABN on invoices so clients do not withhold tax at the top rate.
- Keep records for five years.
- Set money aside for income tax, the Medicare levy and any GST you collect.
TaxOrch estimates your tax from year-to-date figures. More in tax help for freelancers.
When do I need to register for GST?
You must register for GST when your GST turnover reaches $75,000 a year, and taxi and ride-sourcing drivers must register from their first dollar. GST is 10% on most goods and services, and registered businesses report it on a BAS. TaxOrch tracks your turnover against the threshold and reminds you before each BAS is due.
How TaxOrch helps with Australian taxes
- 1Upload your recordsIncome statements, invoices and receipts are read and checked for gaps.
- 2Get an estimateSee your likely refund or tax payable, with the working shown.
- 3Stay on scheduleThe dates for 31 October and each BAS due date, each with its official source.
TaxOrch does not lodge your return: you lodge through myTax, a registered tax agent or authorised software. Firms can book a demo, request a demo account or offer TaxOrch under their own brand with a White-label licence.
When to talk to a registered tax agent
- The ATO has contacted you about a review or audit.
- You are choosing between a sole trader, company or trust structure.
- You have capital gains from property, shares or crypto.
- You have income from overseas or have changed residency.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Australian tax return due?
- 31 October after the financial year ends on 30 June, if you lodge it yourself. If you are on a registered tax agent's client list before 31 October, you may have until a later date.
When does the Australian tax year start and end?
- The Australian financial year runs from 1 July to 30 June.
Can TaxOrch lodge my return with the ATO?
- No. TaxOrch does not lodge returns. It reads your records, estimates your result and prepares a draft marked as not lodged. You lodge through myTax, a registered tax agent or authorised software.
Do I need to register for GST as a sole trader?
- You must register once your GST turnover reaches $75,000 a year, or from the start if you drive for a taxi or ride-sourcing service. Below the threshold registration is optional.
Sources
Related on TaxOrch
- AI tax software for Australian accountantsCited answers, withholding and review for firms.
- Deduction finderClaims matched to the ATO rule behind each.
- Tax help for freelancersPAYG instalments, expenses and GST.
- Tax deadlinesEvery ATO due date, with its source.
- All countriesCountry guides and coverage levels.