Understanding the ATO tax return dates and knowing when to lodge your tax return in Australia is essential for Perth residents who want to avoid penalties and stay financially organised. Every year, individuals and businesses across Western Australia miss deadlines simply due to confusion around the tax return process.
This guide explains the 2025–2026 tax return timeline in Australia, with a clear focus on Perth, WA, particularly Perth CBD and surrounding areas. Whether you are an employee, small business owner, or property investor, this timeline will help you lodge on time and with confidence.
In Australia, the financial year runs from:
All income earned and expenses incurred during this period must be reported in your tax return. This applies to:
Individuals
Sole traders
Small businesses
Property investors
Companies and trusts
For Perth residents, understanding this timeframe is the first step toward accurate tax reporting.
From 1 July 2026, the ATO begins accepting tax returns for the 2025–2026 financial year. This is when tax season officially starts across Australia, including Perth.
While you can lodge from this date, it is often better to wait until income information is finalised.
By mid to late July, most information is automatically reported to the ATO, including:
Salary and wages
Bank interest
Government payments
Private health insurance
Lodging before this data appears may result in errors or amended returns. Many Perth residents rely on a tax accountant in Perth to ensure everything is correct before lodgement.
This period is ideal for Perth CBD residents to gather documents such as:
Work-related expense receipts
Home office records
Self-education expenses
Investment income statements
A professional accountant in Perth can review your records and ensure all eligible deductions are claimed correctly.
If you lodge your tax return yourself, 31 October 2026 is the last date to file a tax return in Australia.
Missing this tax return due date in WA may lead to:
Failure-to-lodge penalties
Interest on unpaid tax
Increased ATO scrutiny
If you use a registered accounting firm in Perth, you may qualify for extended lodgement deadlines beyond October. This is one of the key advantages of using professional accounting services.
Small business owners in and around Perth CBD face additional tax obligations beyond individual returns.
Finalise profit and loss statements
Review GST and BAS records
Confirm payroll and superannuation payments
Check asset depreciation
A qualified tax accountant in Perth helps ensure business income and expenses are reported accurately and on time.
Self-lodged businesses: Generally due by 31 October 2026
Agent-lodged businesses: Often eligible for later deadlines
Many of the best accountants in Perth offer structured tax planning to avoid last-minute stress.
Perth has a strong rental market, and property investors must report rental income each year.
Key tax considerations include:
Rental income and expenses
Loan interest
Repairs and maintenance
Depreciation claims
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) when selling
CGT applies in the financial year the contract is signed, not settlement. This is a common mistake among investors and highlights the value of professional advice.
Businesses registered for GST must lodge Business Activity Statements (BAS):
Quarterly BAS: Due 28 days after each quarter
Monthly BAS: Due on the 21st of the following month
Late BAS lodgements can attract penalties and disrupt cash flow. Many Perth businesses rely on an experienced accounting firm in Perth to manage GST compliance.
Working with a local accountant provides benefits such as:
Knowledge of WA tax obligations
Understanding of Perth business conditions
Personalised advice
Ongoing tax planning support
The best accountants in Perth focus on long-term outcomes, not just annual lodgement.
Lodging too early before income is finalised
Missing valid deductions
Incorrect rental property claims
Forgetting CGT events
Missing tax return deadlines
Using professional accounting services significantly reduces these risks.
Planning before 30 June 2026 can help you:
Bring forward deductions
Manage capital gains
Review superannuation contributions
Improve overall tax outcomes
Early advice from a trusted accountant in Perth often results in meaningful tax savings.
Understanding the Perth tax return dates for 2025–2026 and knowing when to lodge your tax return in Australia helps you stay compliant and stress-free.
Whether you live or work in Perth CBD, partnering with a local accounting professional ensures accuracy, peace of mind, and better financial outcomes. If you need help with tax return lodgement in Perth, speaking with an experienced accountant is a smart next step.
Also read: End-of-Financial-Year (EOFY) Checklist for Perth Businesses: Accountant Recommended
Tax returns open from 1 July 2026.
For self-lodged returns, the deadline is 31 October 2026.
Yes. Registered tax agents can often secure extended deadlines.
Yes. Rental income and expenses must be declared annually.
Yes. Local accountants provide personalised, WA-specific advice.