Tax Return Deadlines in Australia: What You Need to Know
Tax season comes around every year, yet the deadlines still catch plenty of people off guard. At My Tax Time, we believe a little planning goes a long way — so here's a clear rundown of the key dates and what they mean for you.
When is the tax return deadline?
If you're lodging your own individual tax return, the deadline is 31 October following the end of the financial year (which runs 1 July to 30 June). Miss it, and the ATO can apply failure-to-lodge penalties, even if you don't owe any tax.
The good news: lodging through a registered tax agent
When you lodge through a registered tax agent like My Tax Time, you generally qualify for an extended deadline — often as late as May the following year. To be eligible, you simply need to be on our client list before 31 October. This extra time can be a real relief if your situation is complex or you're still gathering documents.
What about small businesses?
Business owners have a few more dates to track — including quarterly BAS lodgements, PAYG instalments, and superannuation guarantee deadlines. Getting these wrong can mean interest charges, so it pays to have a system (or an accountant) keeping you on schedule.
A few simple tips to stay ahead:
- Keep receipts and records throughout the year, not just at tax time
- Set reminders for quarterly obligations if you run a business
- Reach out early — the sooner we have your details, the smoother the process
Whether you're an individual after a stress-free return or a business juggling multiple deadlines, the My Tax Time team is here to keep you compliant and on time. Get in touch and let's make this tax season the easiest one yet.
