Tax Return Deadlines in Australia
Knowing the Australian tax return deadlines can help individuals, sole traders, and businesses avoid late lodgement penalties. This calendar shows important income tax return due dates for any financial year.
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
| 30 June | End of the previous financial year. |
| 1 July | Start preparing new financial year tax returns. |
| 31 October | Deadline for individuals lodging their own tax return. |
| 15 May * | Deadline for tax agents lodging their clients' tax return (conditions apply). |
* Tax agent lodgement deadlines vary depending on circumstances and eligibility under the ATO lodgement program.
Who Must Lodge a Tax Return?
You may need to lodge a tax return if you:
- Earned income from employment.
- Operated a business or worked as a sole trader.
- Received investment income.
- Received rental property income.
- Had capital gains or other taxable income.
Late Tax Return Penalties
Missing a tax return deadline may result in:
- Failure-to-lodge penalties.
- Interest charges on outstanding tax debts.
- ATO compliance action.
If you cannot lodge on time, contact the ATO or your tax agent as soon as possible.
Learn more on preparing your tax return on the official ATO website.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the tax return deadline in Australia?
For most individuals lodging their own return, the deadline is 31 October following the end of the financial year.
What is the Australian financial year?
The Australian financial year runs from 1 July to 30 June.
Can I get an extension?
Taxpayers using a registered tax agent may qualify for extended lodgement deadlines.
Do sole traders have different tax return deadlines?
Sole traders generally follow the same individual tax return deadlines unless lodging through a registered tax agent.