Applying for a Tax File Number (TFN)
Applying for a TFN is an essential first step, because to receive an income in Australia, you need a Tax File Number (TFN). This is a unique number issued to individuals or organisations by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
Online (i.e. Internet) registration is the fastest way to obtain your TFN. Online TFN registration is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You need to provide your passport details and your Australian address. After 10-15 days (typically), you should receive your new TFN in the post. Application forms are also available from Centrelink offices. You could also print the form from the ATO website or by contacting the TFN Helpline.
When you start work, your employer will ask you to complete a TFN Declaration Form on which you need to provide your TFN details. If you do not already have your TFN, the employer is not allowed to deduct more than the normal amount of tax until the standard TFN processing time has elapsed.
If you earn any income in a financial year (between 1 July and 30 June), you must lodge an Income Tax Return by 31 October of that year, unless other arrangements have been made. As a resident you are subject to Australian laws and are generally required to disclose all income received from inside or outside Australia when completing your income tax return.
Australia has a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10 percent on most items. The GST is included in the price you are asked to pay. Some things such as basic food, most education and health services, eligible child care and nursing home care are GST-free. (Please check ATO website if you require more specific information on GST and Taxation.)
If you operate a business you will need an Australian Business Number (ABN) for your dealings with the Australian Taxation Office and other businesses.
For more information, contact the Australian Taxation Office.
Australian Taxation Office (ATO) contact details:
Tax File Number Helpline 13 2861 (select option 2)
Business and GST enquiries 13 2866
Personal Tax Information Line 13 2861 (select option 4)
TFN online registration www.ato.gov.au/individuals
Tax Office website www.ato.gov.au
Please contact us to discuss your requirements or click here for a detailed assessment of your particulars towards migration to Australia.
Early Days
- Settling in Australia
- the housing process
- the employment scene
- what not to carry
- common Australian expressions
- the cost of living
- culture tips
A Newcomer’s Checklist
- Register with Medicare
- Open a bank account
- Register with Centrelink
- Apply for a driver’s licence
- Enrol, if needed, for English classes
- Enrol children into school
