When is tax debt due in Australia for 2024–2025?

Tax debt is generally due on the date specified in your Notice of Assessment. For most individual tax returns lodged on time, this is typically 21 days after the notice is issued. However, due dates may vary depending on whether you lodge through a tax agent.

Do tax agents get different due dates for clients?

Yes. Registered tax agents receive extended lodgment and payment due dates for eligible clients under the ATO’s agent program. Dates vary based on when the return is lodged and the client’s compliance history.

What happens if I miss my tax payment deadline?

If you miss your tax payment deadline, the ATO may apply interest charges and penalties. You should contact the ATO or your tax agent promptly to discuss payment arrangements or apply for a deferral.

Can I set up a payment plan for my tax debt?

Yes. The ATO offers payment plans for individuals and businesses unable to pay by the due date. These can often be arranged online or through a registered tax agent, depending on the amount owed.

Where can I check my tax debt and due dates?

You can view your current tax debt and due dates by logging into your ATO Online Services account via myGov or by speaking to your tax agent. Notices of Assessment and ATO correspondence will also list key dates.

When Is Tax Debt Due in Australia? Complete Guide for 2024-2025

Sunnie Doan
Jun 2
4 min read

Updated: Jun 3

Understanding when your tax debt is due in Australia is crucial for maintaining compliance with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and avoiding costly penalties. Whether you're a business owner, individual taxpayer, or managing complex international tax obligations, knowing the exact deadlines for different types of tax payments can save you significant money and stress.

Overview of Australian Tax Payment Deadlines

Tax debt in Australia comes in various forms, each with specific due dates that vary depending on your business structure, turnover, and whether you're using a registered tax agent. The ATO has structured these deadlines to ensure steady revenue flow while providing taxpayers reasonable time to meet their obligations.

Individual Tax Return Payment Deadlines

Standard Individual Tax Returns

For most individual taxpayers lodging their own returns:

Final lodgment date: 31 October 2025 (for 2024-25 income year)
Payment due: Generally 21 days after your notice of assessment is issued
Standard payment deadline: 21 November 2024 (for most 2023-24 tax returns)

Important exception: If your assessment is issued after 31 October, you have 21 days from the date the assessment was issued to pay any tax owing.

Using a Registered Tax Agent

If you use a registered tax agent, you benefit from extended deadlines:

Individual and trust returns: Due 15 May 2025
Payment: As advised on your notice of assessment
Special concession: Some returns may be lodged by 5 June 2025 if payment is made by this date

Business Activity Statement (BAS) Payment Deadlines

Quarterly BAS Due Dates 2024-2025

Quarter	Period Covered	Standard Due Date	Electronic Lodgment Extension
Q4 2023-24	Apr-Jun 2024	28 July 2024	25 August 2024
Q1 2024-25	Jul-Sep 2024	28 October 2024	25 November 2024
Q2 2024-25	Oct-Dec 2024	28 February 2025	Not applicable
Q3 2024-25	Jan-Mar 2025	28 April 2025	26 May 2025

Monthly BAS Due Dates

For businesses with GST turnover exceeding $20 million or those who choose monthly reporting:

Due date: 21st day of the month following the reporting period
Example: July 2024 BAS due 21 August 2024

PAYG Instalment Deadlines

Pay As You Go (PAYG) instalments are generally due:

Quarterly: 28 days after the end of each quarter
Annual: 21 October (for businesses that pay annually)

Specific dates for 2024-25:

Q1 instalment: 28 October 2024
Q2 instalment: 28 February 2025
Q3 instalment: 28 April 2025
Q4 instalment: 28 July 2025

Company and Super Fund Tax Deadlines

Large and Medium Taxpayers

Lodgment: 31 January 2025
Payment: 1 December 2024

Other Companies and Super Funds

High-income entities (>$2 million): 31 March 2025
Standard companies: 15 May 2025 (if using tax agent)

Special Considerations and Consequences

Late Payment Penalties

When you miss a tax payment deadline, the ATO may impose:

General Interest Charge (GIC): Calculated daily on outstanding amounts
Failure to Lodge penalties: For missing lodgment deadlines
Administrative penalties: Up to 75% of tax-related liability for default assessments

Payment Plans and Relief Options

The ATO offers several options if you can't meet payment deadlines:

12-month interest-free plans: Available for eligible small businesses
Extended payment arrangements: For complex financial situations
Hardship provisions: For genuine financial difficulty

Industry-Specific Deadlines

Construction and Service Industries

Businesses in building and construction, cleaning, courier services, road freight, security, and IT services must also consider:

Taxable Payments Annual Report (TPAR): 28 August annually
Superannuation Guarantee Charge: 28 days after quarter end if contributions are late

International Business Operations

For businesses operating across Australia, Israel, and Vietnam (like many of Lynden Group's clients):

Foreign income reporting: Must be included in standard Australian tax returns
Transfer pricing documentation: Additional deadlines may apply
Double taxation treaty considerations: May affect payment timing

Strategic Tax Planning Tips

Cash Flow Management

Set aside funds regularly: Don't wait until payment is due
Use ATO online estimators: Plan for upcoming liabilities
Consider quarterly provisioning: Even if you're not required to pay quarterly

Working with Tax Professionals

Engaging a registered tax agent provides:

Extended deadlines: Additional time for lodgment and payment planning
Expert compliance guidance: Ensuring all obligations are met
Penalty protection: Professional preparation can limit ATO enforcement action

What to Do If You Miss a Deadline

Immediate Actions

Contact the ATO immediately: Don't ignore the debt
Arrange payment or payment plan: Use online services or call 13 11 20
Gather documentation: Prepare reasons for late payment if applicable

Long-term Consequences

Failing to address tax debt can lead to:

Director penalty notices: For company directors
Garnishee notices: Direct deduction from bank accounts or wages
Legal recovery action: Court proceedings for debt collection
Business registration cancellation: Loss of ABN or GST registration

Technology Solutions for Compliance

Modern businesses benefit from:

Automated payment systems: Set up direct debits for regular obligations
Cloud-based accounting software: Real-time tracking of tax liabilities
Professional tax software: Integrated lodgment and payment reminders

Conclusion

Understanding when tax debt is due in Australia requires attention to multiple deadlines affecting different aspects of your tax obligations. From individual income tax returns due by 31 October to quarterly BAS payments throughout the year, staying organised and proactive is essential.

The consequences of missing these deadlines extend beyond simple interest charges – they can affect your business operations, credit rating, and legal standing. However, the ATO provides various relief mechanisms for taxpayers experiencing genuine difficulty.

Key takeaway: Whether you're managing personal tax affairs or complex business obligations across multiple jurisdictions, maintaining a clear calendar of tax deadlines and working with qualified professionals ensures compliance while optimising your financial position.

For businesses operating internationally or facing complex tax situations, professional guidance from experienced accounting and tax advisory firms becomes invaluable in navigating Australia's comprehensive tax system while meeting all obligations on time.

This guide provides general information about Australian tax deadlines. For specific advice relating to your circumstances, particularly for international business operations or complex tax situations, consult with qualified tax professionals who understand both Australian requirements and international tax obligations.