Why the 31 October Deadline Matters
We all know that sinking feeling of missing a deadline. Now, imagine that feeling multiplied when it comes to your tax return. In Australia, if you’re lodging your own return, 31 October is the date you need to have it submitted to the ATO. Miss it, and you could face late fees, delays in getting your refund, or just a whole lot of unnecessary stress.
Lodging on time isn’t just about avoiding penalties. It’s about getting any money you’re owed sooner, keeping your finances under control, and avoiding that last-minute scramble for receipts. Leaving it until the end of October often leads to rushed decisions, forgotten deductions, or mistakes that could have been avoided with a bit of planning.
Lodging Yourself or Using a Tax Agent
If your tax situation is simple, you can lodge your return yourself through the ATO’s online services via myGov. It’s straightforward, free, and lets you stay in control.
But if things feel a bit more complicated, a registered tax agent can be a real lifesaver. These are professionals registered with the Tax Practitioners Board who can charge a fee, but they bring peace of mind. They know the rules, keep up their qualifications, and follow strict standards.
Experts like Clear Tax help ensure your return is accurate, your deductions are claimed correctly, and you don’t end up making avoidable mistakes.
Timing Is Everything with a Tax Agent
Here’s an important point: if you plan to use a tax agent, you need to contact them well before 31 October. Most agents run a lodgment program that allows them to lodge returns after the usual deadline. But you can’t just turn up on 30 October and expect to be included.
Think about it this way: if you leave it too late, your agent might not be able to include you in their program. You could end up having to lodge your own return under pressure or pay extra to get help outside their schedule. A quick call or email early can save a lot of stress and make the whole process far smoother.
Keep Your Records Organised
One of the biggest stress points is having disorganised receipts and records. That’s where the ATO’s myDeductions tool comes in handy. It lets you keep track of work-related expenses, donations, or any income from a side hustle. You can upload these directly or share them with your agent.
Even if you’re lodging yourself, having organised records makes the process much easier and reduces mistakes. You might even notice deductions you didn’t think to claim. Many Australians miss out on refunds simply because small expenses or donations weren’t recorded properly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even small mistakes can slow things down or reduce your refund. Some of the most common errors include:
- Claiming deductions that don’t qualify or aren’t properly documented
- Forgetting to include side income, interest, or dividends
- Waiting too long to lodge and facing penalties or delayed refunds
Being aware of these mistakes and preparing ahead of time can save both time and money.
What Happens if You Leave It Too Late
Putting your tax return off until the last minute comes with more than just penalties. It can cause stress, missed deductions, and delayed refunds. Lodging early or working with a tax agent on time gives you space to handle mistakes calmly and ensures everything is accurate.
For example, you might realise a deduction was missed or a record is incomplete. Lodging early gives you time to fix it without rushing. Leaving it until the final week of October often means there’s no time to correct anything.
Take Action Now
The simple truth is this: lodge your own tax return by 31 October or contact a registered tax agent today to secure your spot in their lodgment program. Check your records, organise your receipts, and make a plan. Acting now saves headaches, mistakes, and lost time later.
Being proactive allows you to complete your tax return confidently. You’ll avoid unnecessary stress, ensure everything is accurate, and receive any refunds you’re entitled to sooner. Waiting until the last minute only adds pressure and increases the risk of mistakes.
Final Thoughts
Meeting the 31 October deadline is straightforward if you plan ahead. Whether lodging yourself or using a tax agent, staying organised, preparing your records, and taking action early makes the process much smoother. Avoid the last-minute rush and protect both your finances and your peace of mind. A little planning today can save a lot of stress tomorrow.
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