First Time Tax Return

First-Time Tax Return? No Stress, We’ve Got You Covered!

Lodging your first tax return? GoTax makes it simple, fast, and stress-free. Learn what tax is, how refunds work, and finalise your first return online in minutes.

So, You Got Your First Job — What’s This “Tax” Thing?

Congrats! You’ve joined the workforce, the pay’s rolling in… and then — hang on — why’s a chunk missing from your pay?
Welcome to the wonderful world of tax!

Tax is how we all chip in for the good stuff — roads, hospitals, schools, police, and even that free Wi-Fi at the library. Think of it as “rent” for living in Australia. Fair? Maybe not. Real? Absolutely.

But here’s the good news: do your first tax return right, and some of that money comes straight back into your pocket.

What Is a Tax Return, Anyway?

A tax return tells the government how much you earned, how much tax you paid, and whether you’re due a refund (cha-ching!) or owe a little more.

Your return includes:

• ✔ All income — jobs, Centrelink, investments, side hustles

• ✔ Tax paid — the bit that disappeared from your pay

• ✔ Deductions — work-related expenses that can boost your refund

If you paid too much, the ATO pays you back. Paid too little, we’ll help you sort it before it snowballs.

“But My Boss Already Takes Out Tax — Why Lodge a Return?”

True — your employer withholds tax. But whether they took the right amount depends on your total income for the year.

• Paid too much? You’ll score a refund.

• Paid too little? You might owe a small top-up.

• Earned under $18,200? You may not owe any tax at all — meaning a refund could be waiting.

Moral of the story? Lodge a return — it’s the only way to know for sure.

What’s a TFN and Why Do You Need One?

Your Tax File Number (TFN) is your personal tax ID. You’ll need it for:

• Getting paid

• Opening a bank account

• Dealing with Centrelink

Keep it private — it’s like your bank PIN.

When Do You Lodge Your First Tax Return?

Deadline: 31 October each year.
Miss it and the ATO can fine you up to $1,565.

Tip: Register with GoTax before 31 October and you could score an automatic extension.

How to Lodge Your First Tax Return

With GoTax, you simply:

1. Create an account at www.gotax.com.au

2. Answer a few simple questions — no forms, no tax-speak

3. Check your ATO pre-fill info

4. Add any work deductions

5. Finalise your return — refund incoming!

6. We CHECK everything to make sure it's just right.

7. If you've NEVER, EVER lodged a Tax Return before - it's FREE.

What Happens If You Lodge Late?

Lodging late could trigger a fine starting at $313 and climbing with time.
Pro tip: lodge early with GoTax and relax while everyone else scrambles in October.

Gotax FAQs for First-Timers

Are Centrelink payments taxed?

Some are, some aren’t. If Centrelink’s your only income, you may not owe tax. If you also worked, you might.

What if I make a mistake?

No stress. You can lodge an amendment easily — we’ll guide you.

What’s a tax deduction?

Any work expense that helps you earn income — uniforms, tools, or job-related travel. Keep receipts!

Can students claim deductions?

Only if your course is directly related to your job or apprenticeship.

How fast do refunds arrive?

Most GoTax users see refunds within 10 business days.

Real People, Real Results

Read all our reviews

“GoTax made my first tax return so easy! The step-by-step process was clear, and I got my refund fast.” – Sarah T.

“I was nervous, but GoTax walked me through everything. It was way easier than I expected!” – Jason M.

What Now?

Your first tax return doesn’t have to be scary. GoTax keeps it simple, quick, and totally stress-free.
We’ve helped thousands of Aussies nail their first return — and we’ll make sure you start adulthood with a refund, not a headache.

Start your first tax return today at www.gotax.com.au — the easiest, safest, and fastest way to claim what’s yours.