Do I Need GST Under $75,000?

Most ABN holders do not need to register for GST if their business turnover is under $75,000 for the financial year.

GST registration is only required once you expect your turnover to reach the $75,000 threshold. If you’re below that level, you can stay out of the GST system and keep your administration simple.

This is where many new ABN holders get confused.

When You Do NOT Need GST

You generally don’t need to register for GST if:

• Your expected turnover is under $75,000, and

• You are not operating in rideshare or taxi services

Turnover means your total business income before expenses, not your profit. If you’re starting out, running a side hustle, or earning irregular income, GST is usually unnecessary.

Staying unregistered avoids:

• Charging GST on invoices

• Lodging quarterly BAS

• Extra record-keeping

For most small operators, that’s a win.

The Rideshare and Taxi Exception

Rideshare and taxi drivers are treated differently.

If you drive for Uber, rideshare, or taxi services, GST registration is required from day one, regardless of how much you earn. This rule applies even if you only earn a small amount.

Everyone else can wait until the threshold is genuinely approaching.

Why Registering Too Early Is a Mistake

Some ABN holders register early because they think GST looks “more professional”. In reality, early registration usually means:

• More paperwork

• BAS lodgements you didn’t need

• Extra admin with no benefit

Unless GST is required, registering early often complicates things unnecessarily.

What Happens If You Hit $75,000 Later?

If your business grows and you approach the threshold, registering for GST is straightforward. The key is monitoring your turnover so you don’t miss the point where registration becomes mandatory.

Registering at the right time avoids penalties and keeps things under control.

Next Steps for ABN Holders

If your turnover is under $75,000 and you’re not in rideshare or taxi work, staying out of GST keeps things simple. When growth comes, GST can be handled without stress if you’re prepared.

If you’re lodging an ABN tax return and want to make sure GST is handled correctly, you can complete everything through GoTax here:
https://www.gotax.com.au/small-business-tax-return