To do your own tax return online in Australia, sign in to your myGov account, link it to the ATO, and use the pre-filled information to lodge your tax return accurately and securely.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) provides a free and user-friendly online service via myGov, allowing residents in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and regional areas to lodge their taxes without a tax agent. Once your ATO account is linked, most of your income, health, and superannuation details are automatically filled in, saving you time. All you need to do is review the information, add any missing details, and submit, typically between 1 July and 31 October 2025.
Why Should You Lodge Your Own Tax Return Online in Australia?
Lodging your own tax return online helps you save money by avoiding accountant fees, gives you full control over your finances, enables faster processing and refunds, and allows you to file from anywhere with internet access. Some reasons include:
- You avoid paying fees to accountants or tax agents.
- You have full control and understanding of your income, expenses, and deductions.
- The Australian Taxation Office typically processes online returns within two weeks, speeding up refunds.
- You can lodge your tax return from anywhere in Australia as long as you have internet access.
What You Need to Lodge a Tax Return Online?
Before starting your myGov tax return, make sure you have:
- Your Tax File Number (TFN).
- Access to your myGov account linked with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
- Your income statement or PAYG summary (usually provided by your employer through Single Touch Payroll).
- Details of any additional income, such as freelance work, investments, or other earnings.
- Records of any deductible expenses you plan to claim.
- Your bank account details for receiving any tax refund.
Take help for tax return services from the experts and professional tax agent.
Step-by-Step: How Do You Do Your Tax Return Using MyGov?
You can do your tax return online easily by logging into your myGov account linked to the ATO, reviewing pre-filled information, adding any extra income or deductions, and submitting your return securely online.
Log in to myGov and Link Your ATO Account
If you don’t have a myGov account yet, it’s easy to create one. Once you’re logged in, make sure to link your ATO services by confirming your identity. This helps keep everything secure and connected.
Choose ‘Lodge Tax Return’
Head over to the ATO section inside your myGov account. Look for the option that says “Lodge” under Income Tax, and click on it to get started.
Review the Pre-Filled Information
The ATO does a lot of the work for you by filling in details like your income, tax withheld, and employer info. Take a moment to carefully check that everything looks right.
Add Any Extra Income
If you’ve earned money from side gigs, freelance work, bank interest, or cryptocurrency, be sure to add those details in so your return is complete.
Claim Your Deductions
Go to the deductions section and include things like work-related expenses, home office costs, travel, or education. Don’t worry! the ATO gives helpful guidance along the way, especially if it’s your first time.
Double-Check and Submit
Before submitting, review all your entries one last time to make sure everything’s accurate. Once you’re happy, hit submit. You’ll get a confirmation and can keep an eye on your Notice of Assessment right from your myGov account.
Recommended Read: Overdue Tax Returns: What You Need to Do If You Missed the Deadline?
Common Deductions to Claim (Don't Miss These!)
If you’re eligible, don’t forget to claim deductions like:
- Internet and phone (if used for work)
- Professional development or certifications
- Tools and equipment
- Work-related travel (public transport, fuel)
These apply to individuals filing tax returns in any part of Australia—from Melbourne freelancers to Brisbane office workers.
Always keep receipts and documentation for at least 5 years.
When Will You Get Your Tax Refund?
Once you submit your tax return online through myGov, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) typically processes it within 7 to 14 business days. After processing, you will receive a notification in your myGov inbox when your Notice of Assessment is ready. If you’re eligible for a refund, it’s usually paid within a few days after the notice.
Can I Do My Own Tax Return Without an Accountant?
Yes! If your tax situation is simple such as having one job and no complex investments, you can easily file your tax return yourself using the ATO’s myTax service through myGov. Many Australians successfully lodge their returns this way every year.
However, if you are self-employed, have rental properties, investments, or run a small business, it might be wise to get professional advice to ensure you claim everything correctly and comply with tax laws. This applies whether you live in a major city like Sydney or Canberra or in rural Australia.
Recommended Read: Difference Between Accountant and Tax Agent
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Your Own Tax Return
- Forgetting to report all sources of income.
- Claiming tax deductions you are not eligible for.
- Entering incorrect bank account details for your refund.
- Failing to keep receipts and documentation organized.
- Not double-checking all entered information before submitting.
Being careful with these will help you avoid delays or issues with your tax return.
How to Fix Errors in Your Submitted Tax Return?
If you realise you made a mistake or left out some information after submitting your tax return, don’t worry, it’s easy to fix. Simply log in to your myGov account linked to the ATO, find your lodged tax return, and follow the prompts to amend the details. The Australian Taxation Office usually processes these amendments quickly, so you can correct errors with minimal hassle and keep your tax records accurate and up to date.
10 Tips for First-Time Own Tax Returns Filers
- Take your time and carefully read the ATO’s explanations while completing the forms.
- Use the myDeductions app throughout the year to keep track of your work-related expenses.
- Lodge your tax return early but only after your employer has marked your income statement as “Tax Ready.”
- The ATO’s online system works the same nationwide, so whether you live in Adelaide, Hobart, or elsewhere in Australia, you can follow these steps.
- Keep all your receipts and documentation for at least five years in case the ATO requests proof.
- Make sure to double-check your bank details so any refund goes straight to the right account.
- Remember to include all your income sources, like freelance gigs, investments, or government payments.
- If you’re ever unsure about something on your return, don’t hesitate to use the ATO’s online help tools or reach out to their support team.
- Setting reminders for important tax deadlines can really help you avoid missing anything.
- And if anything changes during the year, like starting a new job or moving house; be sure to update your details in myGov.
Pros and Cons of Doing Your Own Tax Return
Doing your own tax return online can be a good idea, but it’s worth thinking about the ups and downs before you jump in.
The good stuff:
- You save money because you don’t have to pay an accountant.
- You get a better handle on your own money and what you can claim back.
- It’s super convenient, you can do it anytime, wherever you are, as long as you have internet.
- Usually, you’ll get your refund faster than if you go through other methods.
The tricky bits:
- If your taxes are a bit complicated, it’s easy to make mistakes that could cause trouble later.
- It can take a while to gather all your paperwork and figure out what you need to do.
- You might miss some tax deductions if you’re not sure what to look for.
- Tax stuff can get stressful, especially if you’ve got different income sources or if you’re not used to the process.
Recommended Read: Australian Tax Law
When to Contact an Expert Tax Accountant?
If you have a complex tax situation, such as being self-employed, owning a business, managing investments, or dealing with rental properties, it’s a good idea to seek professional help. Expert tax accountants can maximize your deductions, ensure compliance, and save you from costly mistakes.
For trusted, experienced assistance, choose ISM Accountants. Our professional team provides personalised tax solutions tailored to your needs, making tax time simple, accurate, and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Filing your own tax return online in Australia is easier than ever, thanks to the helpful tools offered by the ATO. With the right guidance, you can save money, stay in control, and complete your return from the comfort of your home—no matter where you live.
Pressed for time or just want peace of mind that everything’s done correctly? ISM Accountants has your back. From straightforward tax returns to more detailed cases, we make the process simple, stress-free, and accurate.
Reach out to ISM Accountants today and lodge your tax return with confidence.
FAQs
Yes, myGov and the ATO use secure portals that protect your personal and financial information.
The deadline for individuals lodging their own tax return is October 31 for the financial year ending June 30.
You can easily amend your tax return through your myGov account after submission.
Yes, you can lodge from July 1, but you should wait until your income statement is marked “Tax Ready” by your employer.
It’s completely free to lodge your tax return online using ATO myTax through your myGov account.
Yes, as long as you have internet access and a linked myGov account, you can lodge your return from anywhere in Australia.
