Your First Time Tax Return - A Simple Australian Guide

Feeling stressed about lodging your first tax return in Australia? Relax — if you earned over the $18,200 threshold or had tax withheld, it's straightforward. Plus, it could mean claiming a nice refund!

✅ Key Takeaways:

• ✅ Know the basics – You’re required to lodge if you earned over $18,200 or had any tax withheld.

• ✅ Get organised early – Gather your TFN, myGov records, income statements, bank interest, Centrelink payments, and private health insurer statements.

• ✅ Track deductions properly – Only claim work-related expenses you paid yourself, for your job, and have a record for (e.g., uniform, tools, self-education, WFH costs).

• ✅ Choose the right method – Go it alone using myTax (free, but you’re responsible), hire a registered tax agent (get pro help and extended deadlines), or submit a paper return (slow and outdated).

• ✅ Avoid common mistakes – Don’t forget minor income like side jobs, resist over-claiming deductions, lodge on time, and keep records for at least five years.

• ✅ Understand what happens next – Expect your Notice of Assessment within ~2 weeks; refunds or tax bills follow shortly. You can amend mistakes later via myGov.

• ✅ Get help if you need it – Tax agents can maximise your refund, reduce audit risk, and take the stress off your plate.

? Want the full breakdown? Read the complete guide with tips, checklists, and more: Your First-Time Tax Return: A Simple Australian Guide

? Explore more tax resources and accounting support at Baron Accounting: Baron Tax & Accounting Homepage

This primer gives everything a first-time Australian filer needs — clear, practical, and friendly. Perfect to guide you confidently through tax season!