Australia Tax Knowledge Base

Browse practical answers to common tax questions for Australia self-employed individuals, sole traders, and freelancers. Select a category or search for your question.

Sole Trader Setup

  • How do I register for an Australian Business Number (ABN) as a sole trader?
  • What is the difference between a TFN and an ABN in Australia?
  • Do I need a separate business bank account as a sole trader in Australia?
  • Do sole traders have to pay superannuation in Australia?
  • How do I know if I have a hobby or a business in Australia?

Gst Bas

  • When do I need to register for GST in Australia?

Tax Deadlines

  • When are the Business Activity Statement (BAS) deadlines in Australia?
  • What is the tax return deadline for sole traders in Australia?

Income Tax

  • What are the individual income tax rates in Australia for 2024–25?
  • What is Personal Services Income (PSI) and does it affect me in Australia?
  • What is the Small Business Income Tax Offset in Australia?
  • What happens if my sole trader business makes a loss in Australia?
  • How does the tax-free threshold work in Australia?

Medicare Levy

  • What is the Medicare Levy and how much is it in Australia?
  • What is the Medicare Levy Surcharge (MLS) and how can I avoid it?

Payg Instalments

  • How do PAYG instalments work for sole traders in Australia?

Business Expenses

  • How do I claim home office expenses in Australia (Fixed Rate vs Actual)?
  • How do I claim a computer or laptop as a business expense in Australia?
  • Can I claim my phone and internet bills as a business expense in Australia?
  • Are entertainment expenses tax-deductible for sole traders in Australia?
  • What is a Low-Value Pool for depreciation in Australia?

Travel

  • How can I claim car and motor vehicle expenses in Australia?
  • What travel expenses can I claim as a sole trader in Australia?
  • What is the difference between business travel and commuting in Australia?

Tax Deductions

  • When are self-education and training expenses deductible in Australia?
  • Can I claim professional memberships and subscriptions in Australia?
  • Can I claim a deduction for clothes or work uniforms in Australia?
  • Are charitable donations tax-deductible for my business in Australia?
  • Can I claim a deduction for tools and equipment in Australia?

Record Keeping

  • What records do I need to keep for my sole trader business in Australia?
  • What must be included on a valid Australian tax invoice?

Professional

  • Can I claim fees for accountants and lawyers in Australia?

Getting Started

  • What are the main tax obligations for a sole trader in Australia?

Related Resources

  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Tax Glossary
  • Profession Guides