Banking & Money

Tax Returns for Students: Simple Guide

How to lodge your Australian tax return as an international student: myGov + ATO setup, deadlines, common deductions and refunds you might be missing out on.

Published 2025-09-12 · Updated 2026-02-14 · 7 min read

Tax time can seem intimidating, but for most students it's straightforward. Here's what you need to know.

Do I Need to Lodge?

Yes, Lodge If:

  • You earned ANY income from employment
  • You had tax withheld from your pay
  • You earned above the tax-free threshold ($18,200/year)
  • You want a refund of withheld tax

Maybe Not Required If:

  • You only earned below threshold and NO tax was withheld

When in doubt: Lodge anyway — it's free and you might get money back.

Australian Tax Year

Financial Year: 1 July to 30 June Tax Return Due: 31 October (individuals)

Example: For 2025-26 financial year (July 2025 - June 2026), lodge by 31 October 2026.

Tax-Free Threshold

The first $18,200 you earn each year is tax-free.

What this means for students:

  • Working part-time, you might pay no tax or very little
  • But tax is still withheld from each pay
  • Lodge a return to get excess tax back as a refund

How to Lodge

Option 1: MyTax (Recommended)

Steps:

  1. Log into myGov (link ATO first)
  2. Access the ATO portal
  3. Start your tax return
  4. Most info is pre-filled (income, tax withheld)
  5. Add deductions
  6. Review and submit

Cost: Free

Processing: Usually 2-3 weeks for refund

Option 2: Tax Agent

Consider if:

  • Complex situation (business income, investments)
  • Need advice
  • Don't want to do it yourself

Cost: $50-200+ depending on complexity

Note: Agents have extended deadlines (often into next year)

What's Pre-Filled

The ATO automatically receives:

  • Your employment income (from employers)
  • Tax withheld
  • Interest earned (from banks)
  • Private health insurance info
  • Dividends

Wait until mid-August for most pre-fill data to be ready.

Deductions for Students

Common Deductions

Work-Related:

  • Uniforms required by employer
  • Tools and equipment for work
  • Work-related courses
  • Work-related travel (not commuting)

Study-Related (if course related to current work):

  • Course fees (only if related to current job)
  • Textbooks and stationery
  • Computer and internet (work portion)

What You CAN'T Claim

❌ Living expenses ❌ Rent (usually) ❌ Regular groceries ❌ Course fees for future job (not related to current work) ❌ Commuting to work

Keep Records

For every claim:

  • Receipts
  • Bank statements
  • Clear connection to work/income

International Student Specific

Residency for Tax

Different from visa residency! Tax residency depends on:

  • How long you're in Australia
  • Ties to Australia (home, family)
  • Intention to stay

Most international students: Tax resident of Australia (eligible for tax-free threshold).

When Leaving Australia

If leaving permanently:

  • Lodge return for period you worked
  • May need to file early
  • Update address with ATO for any correspondence

Common Questions

Q: When will I get my refund? Usually 2-3 weeks after lodging if everything is straightforward.

Q: What if I owe money? You'll be notified. Payment plans available if needed.

Q: Can I lodge early? Yes, but wait until mid-August for pre-fill data to avoid errors.

Top tip: Keep all work-related receipts throughout the year. Even small deductions add up. A folder or app to store receipts makes tax time much easier.