Your 2025–26 return, made simple
The key dates, who needs to lodge, and the deductions Australians most often miss — plus a faster way to get your refund.
Key dates
Tax time opens
The 2025–26 income year (1 July 2025 – 30 June 2026) is done. You can lodge from 1 July — though waiting a couple of weeks lets ATO pre-fill finalise.
Pre-fill ready
Most employer, bank and health-fund data is pre-filled by the ATO, making your return faster and more accurate.
Self-lodge deadline
If you lodge your own return, this is the ATO deadline.
Registered-agent concession
Clients who lodge through a registered tax agent (and are on the agent's list before the deadline) generally get a later concessional due date.
Dates are general guidance. Always confirm your personal due date with the ATO or your tax agent — penalties can apply to late lodgement.
Deductions people miss
Every return we lodge gets a full deduction review. Here are the ones most often left unclaimed.
- Working-from-home running costs
- Car & work-related travel
- Uniforms, protective clothing & laundry
- Tools, equipment & devices
- Self-education & professional development
- Union fees & professional memberships
- Income protection insurance premiums
- Donations to registered charities
- Last year's tax agent fee
Most people do
You generally need to lodge a return if any of these apply to the 2025–26 year:
- You had tax withheld from your pay
- You earned over the $18,200 tax-free threshold
- You're a sole trader or had business/ABN income
- You had investment, rental or crypto income
- You want to claim deductions or a refund you're owed
Not sure? Start online and your consultant will confirm it with you — free.
Lodge your 2025–26 return today
Start online in two minutes. No payment until your return is lodged.