We’ve all been there. It’s that time of the year again. Your inbox is flooding with reminders, your desk is cluttered with receipts, and your brain just can’t wrap around the idea of doing your tax return.
But here’s the thing—it doesn’t have to be a nightmare.
Whether you’re an employee, a freelancer, a business owner, or just someone trying to make sense of it all, this guide will help you break down everything you need to know about tax returns in Australia—in plain English.
What Is a Tax Return?
A tax return is basically a form you submit to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) every year to report your income, expenses, and any deductions you might be entitled to. Based on the info you provide, the ATO works out whether you’ve paid too much tax (in which case you’ll get a refund) or too little (and owe them some money).
Sounds simple? It kind of is—when you have the right help!
Anecdote Time
Sarah, a freelance graphic designer from Melbourne, used to dread tax season. She’d spend hours trying to figure out what she could claim, often ending up frustrated. Then, she found Perfect Accounting PTY Ltd. With their expert help, she not only saved time but also got the biggest refund she’d ever received.
Who Needs to Lodge a Tax Return?
Not everyone has to lodge a tax return, but most people who earn money in Australia do. Here’s a simple checklist:
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You earned more than $18,200 during the financial year (July 1 to June 30)
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You had tax withheld from any income
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You ran a business or earned freelance/contractor income
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You received government payments or allowances
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You want to claim deductions or are due a refund
If you’re unsure, you can use the ATO’s Do I need to lodge a tax return? tool.
Step-by-Step: How to Lodge Your Tax Return
Let’s make this easy with a quick step-by-step guide:
1. Collect Your Documents
Start with gathering your:
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PAYG summaries from employers
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Bank interest statements
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Records of work-related expenses, such as uniforms, travel, or home office costs
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Health insurance details
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Dividend and investment income records
2. Decide How You Want to Lodge
There are three main ways:
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MyTax via the ATO online portal (for straightforward returns)
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A registered tax agent (recommended for complex returns or to maximize deductions)
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Through accounting software that connects with the ATO
Tip: Most people choose a registered tax agent like Perfect Accounting PTY Ltd because it saves time and stress.
3. Lodge Before the Deadline
For most people, the deadline is October 31. If you’re using a registered agent, you often get an extension.
4. Claim Your Deductions
This is the golden ticket to a bigger refund. Here are common deductions:
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Work-related travel
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Home office expenses
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Internet and phone bills (proportional to work use)
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Education or training directly related to your job
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Uniforms and laundry
Check the ATO deduction guide for more.
5. Wait for Your Refund (or Pay Any Tax Owed)
If you’re entitled to a tax refund, it usually arrives within 2 weeks of lodging. If you owe tax, the ATO will give you instructions on how to pay.
Why Use a Professional for Your Tax Return?
Let’s be real—tax is complicated. The laws change, deductions aren’t always obvious, and mistakes can cost you.
That’s where Perfect Accounting PTY Ltd comes in. Their experienced team helps individuals and businesses across Australia file their tax returns quickly, correctly, and with maximum refunds in mind.
✅ Here’s What You Get:
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Personalised service
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Expert advice on deductions and income
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Peace of mind knowing it’s done right
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Extended deadline for lodgment
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Affordable pricing
Testimonial
“Perfect Accounting saved me over $3,000 in taxes last year! I never even knew I could claim half the things they found. Lifesavers!” – James T., Sydney
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to tax returns, there are some traps to watch out for:
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Forgetting to include all income (yes, even side gigs!)
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Claiming deductions without proper receipts
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Missing the deadline
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Not using your full entitlements
Avoiding these mistakes can save you money, stress, and potentially penalties from the ATO.
Wrapping It Up
Doing your tax return doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right preparation and professional help, it can actually be—dare we say—easy.
Whether you’re an employee, a small business owner, or working the gig economy, getting your tax return right is key to keeping your finances in shape. And if you’re looking for expert help you can trust, reach out to the team at Perfect Accounting PTY Ltd today. Their friendly agents are ready to guide you every step of the way.
Visit Perfect Accounting to get started and claim your maximum refund—stress-free.
