If you are an international student studying in Australia for more than 6 months then you may be considered as an Australian resident for tax purposes. This means you will be paying your tax the same as other residents from your earnings.  

Should you lodge a tax return?

If you’ve earned more than $18,200 you will have to lodge a tax return. Studying for 6 months or more will automatically make you an Australian resident so you have to disclose your income on a tax return.

And if your earning is less than this amount and no tax was withheld in the last years financial year. Nonetheless, you earned underneath this limit and still paid the tax you should hold up a return as it is likely you will be qualified for a refund of the tax paid.

When do you have to lodge a tax return?

The period for lodging yourself is from July 1 to October 31.

How to lodge a tax return?

You can lodge a tax return through these ways:

1. Lodge online yourself or
2. Lodge with a registered tax agent or
3. Lodge a paper tax return

What do I need to lodge it?

1. Tax file number
2. Passport size photo
3. PAYG Payment Summaries

How much does time the processing take?

If the processing is online the period for your refund will only take about 2 weeks. Likewise, from the mail, it will take 6 weeks.

If the course you are enrolled in lasts less than 6 months then you will be regarded as a non-resident of Australia however, you will have to lodge the tax return disclosing the income. This won’t make the income-tax-free threshold resulting in you will have to pay a higher rate of tax compared to other residents.

Also, you are in Australia but working and earning from overseas you don’t need to declare your income on the tax return.

For more information, Please visit our Yes People website or you can also contact us on +61 2 8056 7110 or email us at info@yespeople.com.au.