Filing Tax in Australia as an International Student

If you study in Australia for longer than six months and work, you are generally considered a resident for tax purposes. This means you pay income tax at the same rate as other Australian residents.

• Your employer will pay tax to the Australian Tax Office (ATO) on your earnings.
• Income below AU$18,200 annually is typically tax-free for tax residents.
• You can claim tax deductions for work-related expenses, just like other Australian residents.

If your course finishes in under six months and you plan to leave Australia, you may be considered a non-resident for tax purposes, which has different tax implications.

A Tax File Number (TFN) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). You need a TFN if you plan to work in Australia. It's essential for:

• Ensuring your employer can pay you correctly and withhold the right amount of tax.
• Lodging your income tax return.
• Accessing government benefits (if eligible).

You can apply for a TFN once you have arrived in Australia. It's free to apply through the ATO website.

An income tax return is a form you lodge with the ATO to declare your income and expenses for the financial year. The Australian financial year runs from 1 July to 30 June.

• By 14 July, your employer will provide you with a Payment Summary (or Income Statement via myGov) detailing your earnings and the tax paid.
• The deadline to lodge your tax return is 31 October each year.
• You can lodge your tax return online through myGov or on paper.
• If there's a difference between the tax paid and the amount owed, the ATO will either issue you a refund or request additional payment.
• You can claim tax deductions for eligible work-related expenses, such as uniforms or specific study materials.

Superannuation (often called 'super') is a system of compulsory retirement savings in Australia. If you earn over a certain amount (currently AU$450 per month, though this threshold can change), your employer must contribute superannuation to a super fund on your behalf, in addition to your regular salary.

• This money is generally not accessible until you retire.
• However, if you are a temporary resident (like an international student) and permanently leave Australia, you may be able to claim your super back as a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP).
• It's important to track your super fund and consolidate multiple funds if you have more than one.

For more information on superannuation, visit the ATO website on Super.

Navigating tax and superannuation can be complex, but help is available:

• Education Provider Student Services: Your university or college's international student support team can offer basic advice or direct you to appropriate resources.
• ATO Tax Help Program: If you earn AU$60,000 or less per year and have straightforward tax affairs, you might be eligible for the ATO's free Tax Help Program, where trained volunteers can help you lodge your tax return.
• Registered Tax Agents or Accountants: For more complex situations, consider using a registered tax agent or accountant. Their fees may even be tax-deductible in your next tax return. You can find a registered agent on the Tax Practitioners Board website.
• Fair Work Ombudsman: For any workplace issues related to pay or entitlements, the Fair Work Ombudsman provides free advice and assistance.

Don't hesitate to seek help if you're unsure about your tax obligations.