At Oculus Group, we know tax time can sometimes feel like a blur of deadlines, paperwork, and last-minute stress.
One of the easiest ways to stay on top of it is to understand the different dates for lodging your annual tax returns – both for individuals and businesses – and how those dates change depending on whether you lodge yourself or through your accountant.
By knowing when your returns are due, you can avoid penalties, reduce stress, and make the most of any deductions you’re entitled to.
Individual Tax Returns
If you lodge your individual tax return yourself directly with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), the due date is 31 October each year. This covers income from the previous financial year, which runs from 1 July to 30 June.
However, if you lodge through a registered tax agent like Oculus Group, you may be entitled to a much later due date – often well into the following year (sometimes as late as 15 May).
The ATO grants these extensions as part of the registered agent lodgement program. The key is to engage us before 31 October so we can add you to our extended lodgement list.
Business Tax Returns
The due date for business tax returns depends on your structure and whether you lodge yourself or through a tax agent:
- Sole Traders — Lodging yourself? Due 31 October. Lodging through a tax agent? Extended to a later date, often in the following year.
- Partnerships — Due 31 October if self-lodged. Extensions available for tax agent lodgement.
- Companies — Lodging yourself? Generally due 28 February following the end of the financial year. Using a tax agent? Most companies have until 15 May, though the exact date can vary depending on turnover and compliance history.
- Trusts — Same as partnerships — 31 October if self-lodged, with extensions available for agent lodgement.
In all cases, your eligibility for the later date relies on your prior returns being up to date and your accountant having lodged you under their program before the cut-off.
BAS and IAS Lodgement Dates
For GST-registered businesses, quarterly Business Activity Statements (BAS) are due:
- Q1 (Jul–Sep): 28 October
- Q2 (Oct–Dec): 28 February
- Q3 (Jan–Mar): 28 April
- Q4 (Apr–Jun): 28 July
Lodging through a tax agent often gives you an extra two to four weeks for certain quarters.
If you lodge monthly Instalment Activity Statements (IAS) – for PAYG withholding, for example – they’re generally due on the 21st of the following month, regardless of whether you lodge yourself or through an agent.
Why Knowing the Difference Matters
Missing a tax deadline can result in penalties and interest from the ATO, but many people also lodge earlier than necessary because they don’t realise they have an extended due date through their accountant.
Working with Oculus Group not only helps ensure your returns are accurate and complete, but it also means we can:
- Secure the longest possible lodgement period
- Give you more time to prepare and pay
- Help you avoid last-minute stress and potential fines
Key Lodgement Dates for Your Annual Tax in Australia
Your exact lodgement dates will depend on your situation, business structure, and whether you lodge yourself or through us.
By using Oculus Group, you can often access longer deadlines – and we’ll make sure you never miss them.
If you’d like us to review your lodgement schedule and add you to our extended due date program, get in touch before 31 October so we can lock it in.
