Standard deadline for individuals lodging their own return. As 31 October 2026 falls on a Saturday, the ATO generally accepts self-lodgements on the next business day, Monday 2 November 2026. Always confirm your own due date with the ATO.
The 2026 tax return deadline
For an individual lodging their 2025–26 tax return directly, the standard due date is 31 October 2026. The return covers income earned from 1 July 2025 through 30 June 2026. If 31 October falls on a weekend or public holiday, the applicable ATO due-date arrangements should be checked directly with the ATO.
If you use a registered tax agent, a later due date may be available through the agent lodgment program, depending on your circumstances and the agent’s program. You generally need to engage an agent before the standard deadline to be included. Do not assume an agent automatically changes your due date: ask the agent to confirm your personal lodgment date.
How to lodge through myGov
Most individuals can lodge online using myGov, linked to ATO online services. Sign in, open the ATO service and select the relevant tax return. Check that the return relates to the right income year and that pre-filled details are complete before submitting.
The ATO may pre-fill information from employers, banks, government agencies and health funds. Pre-fill can arrive at different times, so if a statement is missing, wait or contact the payer before lodging. Review all figures, claim only deductions you are entitled to, add bank account details and save a copy of your submission.
What to prepare before you start
Gather income statements from employers, bank interest and details of any other income. Depending on your circumstances, you may also need information about dividends, managed funds, rental properties, capital gains, government payments, foreign income or business activities.
For deductions, collect receipts and a short record of how an expense relates to earning income. You may also need private health insurance statements, records about work-related travel or equipment, charitable donation receipts and details of any study-loan repayments. Keep records in the format and for the period required by the ATO.
If you need more time
If you cannot lodge by your due date, contact a registered tax agent as soon as possible and check your current ATO due date. Some agent clients may have a later program date, but eligibility is not automatic and previous outstanding returns can affect the schedule. The ATO can also provide guidance about options in specific circumstances.
If you expect to owe tax, lodging on time and paying by the due date are separate matters. If you are unable to pay, contact the ATO to discuss payment options rather than ignoring a notice. Keep copies of any communication and note reference numbers.
Late lodgement and penalties
The ATO may apply a failure-to-lodge-on-time penalty when a return is overdue, subject to the rules and circumstances that apply. The amount can depend on the period late and other factors. Lodging late may also delay an assessment or make it harder to manage an amount payable.
If a deadline has passed, lodge as soon as you can or contact a registered agent or the ATO for advice about your situation. Do not rely on an online article or calculator to determine whether a penalty applies or what your personal due date is.
A sensible tax-time checklist
Start by checking your myGov link to ATO online services and confirming the return year. Wait for expected pre-fill information, gather records, and review each income and deduction item. Check your bank details before lodging. Keep a copy of the return and supporting records, and note when any amount payable is due.
If you have overdue returns, complex income or uncertainty about your due date, get help early. A registered tax agent can explain the lodgement process and check whether a later program date applies to you. For official deadlines and any extensions, verify your circumstances with the ATO. Dates checked October 2026 from ato.gov.au.
Keep your records after lodging
Lodging the return is not the end of record keeping. Save the return, notice of assessment, income statements and receipts or other evidence supporting deductions. The ATO can ask you to explain a claim, so keep a clear record of what an expense was for, when you paid it and how it relates to earning income. The retention period depends on the records and circumstances; check the ATO requirements that apply to you.
If you lodge through myGov, keep your login and account security details private and watch for messages in the official service. If a tax agent lodges for you, ask for a copy of the return and confirm that the information reflects what you supplied. Good records make future returns easier and help resolve questions if the ATO reviews an item.
Frequently asked questions
When is the 2026 tax return due in Australia?
The standard due date for an individual lodging their 2025–26 return themselves is 31 October 2026. Confirm your own due date with the ATO.
Can a tax agent lodge after 31 October?
Some agent clients may have a later date under the ATO lodgment program. You should engage an agent before the standard deadline and ask them to confirm your eligibility and due date.
How do I lodge my return online?
Link your myGov account to ATO online services, review pre-filled information, add any relevant details and lodge after checking the return carefully.