Choosing a Tax Agent – Get It Right and Get the Most From Your Refund

Written by Mark Walmsley CA — Chartered Accountant and Registered Tax Agent (TPB 25498770)

Last updated 11 May 2026

Choosing the right tax agent is the single biggest decision you make before lodging your tax return. GoTax is a registered Australian online tax service — real Chartered Accountants, fixed prices from $35, and 40 years of tax practice experience. Get your maximum refund without the cost, wait, or stress of a traditional tax agent.

Why Choosing a Tax Agent Matters

Picking a tax agent isn’t just about filling in a form. It’s about trust, accuracy, and getting the biggest refund possible without landing yourself in trouble with the ATO.

A good tax agent knows the deductions you can claim, the mistakes to avoid, and how to keep your return ATO-compliant. Under Australian law, only registered tax agents can legally lodge a tax return on your behalf and charge a fee for doing so. The right one also saves you time, money, and headaches.

What to Look For in a Tax Agent

GoTax vs eTax vs myGov — Which Is Right for You?

There are three main options for Australians doing their tax return online. Here’s how they compare:

* eTax pricing and features: verify at etax.com.au as these change. GoTax pricing correct as at 11 May 2026.

The key difference: myGov is free but entirely DIY — there’s no registered agent reviewing your return before it goes to the ATO. eTax and GoTax both provide registered agent review. GoTax does it for less, with a Chartered Accountant who has 40 years of hands-on Australian tax experience.

GoTax vs a Traditional Tax Agent

Ready to Lodge?

There are plenty of tax agents out there, but none quite like GoTax. We’re Australia’s fast, affordable online tax service — powered by real Chartered Accountants who have been doing this since 1993.

Not sure what your refund might be? Use our free Tax Calculator for an instant estimate before you start.

Lodge your tax return at www.gotax.com.au — simple, secure, and trusted by over 70,000 Australians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use a registered tax agent?

Yes. Under Australian law, only registered tax agents can charge a fee to lodge your tax return. GoTax is registered with the Tax Practitioners Board (TPB Registration 25498770). Verify us anytime on the TPB register.

Are online tax agents safe to use?

Yes. GoTax uses ATO-grade encryption and holds ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification for information security management — the international benchmark for data security. Your data is stored on Australian servers.

How much does a tax agent cost?

With GoTax: Quick Tax Return $35 · Full Individual Return $65 · ABN, Contractor, Small Business, Rideshare, Rental Property, Freelancer, and Self-Employed returns $140 · First-time lodgers under 21 pay $0. All prices are fixed — no hidden fees.

What is the difference between GoTax and myGov?

myGov (myTax) is the ATO’s free DIY system — you are entirely responsible for your own return. GoTax provides a registered Chartered Accountant to review and lodge your return on your behalf. If the ATO ever queries your return, GoTax supports you. With myGov, you handle that alone.

What is the difference between GoTax and eTax?

Both GoTax and eTax are registered tax agent services. GoTax offers fixed pricing from $35, direct Chartered Accountant oversight with 40 years of experience, and ISO 27001:2022 certified security. Check current eTax pricing at etax.com.au.

Can GoTax help if I’ve never done a return before?

Definitely. GoTax is built for first-timers — no forms, no jargon, just plain-English questions that guide you through in minutes. Under-21 first-time lodgers also qualify for a free tax return through our Tax Virgins program.