Most individuals need to lodge by 31 October, but if you use a registered tax agent and you’re on their client list before that date, you may get an extended deadline – often into the following year.

You can claim expenses directly related to earning your income, such as work-related travel, tools, uniforms, self-education, and some home office costs – but they must be substantiated and not private.

Yes – all income, whether cash, banked, or from freelancing or side hustles, must be declared to the ATO.

The standard Medicare Levy is 2% of your taxable income. You may pay extra (the Medicare Levy Surcharge) if you earn above a threshold and don’t have private hospital cover.

You must register if your annual turnover is $75,000 or more (or $150,000 for non-profit organisations) or if you drive for Uber/rideshare, regardless of turnover.

Holding assets for over 12 months may qualify you for a 50% CGT discount if you’re an individual or trust. Strategic timing of sales and offsetting gains with losses are common planning tools.

Yes, for most expenses you need proof (receipts, invoices, statements). For certain claims, like laundry of work uniforms, you can claim up to set limits without receipts, but you still need to show how you calculated it.

Changes in income, withholding amounts, deductions, offsets, or tax rules can all affect your refund. Sometimes an ATO debt or HELP/HECS repayment also reduces it.

Yes – common ones include the low and middle income tax offset (when applicable), senior and pensioner offsets, and small business offsets. Eligibility depends on age, income, and circumstances.

You should keep all your tax-related records, such as receipts, invoices, bank statements, and work-related documents, for at least 5 years from the date you lodge your tax return. Good record keeping helps in case of an ATO review or audit.