Overview
If you’re a student working part-time, picking up casual shifts, or juggling gig economy work alongside your studies, understanding tax returns for international students in Australia can seem confusing. You’re not alone. Many students feel overwhelmed during tax season.Lodging a tax return is often simpler than you think.
This guide covers everything you need to know about how to lodge a tax return as an international student in Australia, common deductions, and your refund entitlements.
Do International Students Need to Lodge a Tax Return in Australia?
Most international students working in Australia need to lodge a tax return, especially if:
- You earned more than $18,200 in the financial year (the Australian tax-free threshold).
- Tax was withheld from your pay, even if you earned less than $18,200.
- You worked as a freelancer or under an ABN (e.g., rideshare, Uber, DoorDash).
According to the ATO international student tax guidelines, if you meet the Australian resident for tax purposes test based on your visa type and length of stay, you may qualify for the tax-free threshold and a potential refund.
How Does Tax Work for International Students in Australia?
Many ask, “Do international students pay tax in Australia?” The answer depends on your residency status for tax purposes. Non-residents have different tax rates and thresholds compared to residents.
Even if you earn below the tax-free threshold, tax may have been deducted from your wages, making you eligible for an international student tax refund in Australia. For example, one student working part-time in Sydney claimed a $700 refund with expert help from Tax NextGen.
What Can Students Claim on Their Tax Return in Australia?
As a part-time or casual worker, here are common deductions students can claim:
- Work uniforms or protective clothing.
- Laundry costs for work clothes.
- Work-related phone and internet expenses.
- Union or professional membership fees.
- Tools and equipment required for your job.
Important: You cannot claim general clothing, everyday travel costs to work, or university fees unrelated to your current job.
Refer to this to know more:
| Expense Type | Claimable? | Conditions |
| Uniforms / protective clothing | Yes | Must be occupation-specific or compulsory |
| Laundry for work clothes | Yes | Must be eligible; receipts needed if claim > $150 and total > $300 |
| Phone/internet (work/self-study usage) | Yes | Must apportion to work/study use |
| Union/professional fees | Yes | Related to your employment |
| Textbooks, stationery, course fees | Yes | Must relate directly to current employment |
| Equipment/tools (<= $300 or depreciated) | Yes | Must be for work or self-education |
| Travel for study | Yes | Must be between work/home and place of study |
| Accommodation & meals (overnight) | Yes | Only for required overnight study trips |
| Interest on study loans | Yes | Interest only, not loan repayment |
| Plain clothes, suits, general uniforms | No | If not occupation-specific or compulsory |
| Commuting to work or to study | No | Ordinary travel is non-deductible |
| HELP/HECS tuition or repayments | No | Tuition under student loans and repayments is non-deductible |
| Meals & accommodation at home | No | Daily living expenses are ineligible |
Do You Need to Lodge a Tax Return for Gig Economy or Rideshare Work?
If you earn income through gig work like Uber, DoorDash, or freelancing, you must report this income in your tax return. You may also need an Australian Business Number (ABN) and should carefully track your income and expenses.
Note: If your gig income exceeds $75,000, you must register for GST.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: I worked only a few hours a week. Do I still need to lodge a tax return?
If your total income was below $18,200 and no tax was withheld, you might not need to lodge. But if tax was deducted, you could still get a refund.
Q2: Can I claim study expenses on my tax return?
No, international students generally cannot claim study-related expenses, even if your job relates to your course.
Q3: I missed lodging my tax return last year. Can I still file it?
Yes! Tax NextGen helps students lodge late tax returns easily no judgment, just fast refunds.
Why Choose Tax NextGen for Your Student Tax Return?
- Affordable flat fees starting at $99.
- Fast tax refunds within 7 days.
- Friendly, multilingual tax experts familiar with international student needs.
- Specialized support for PAYG workers, gig economy, Uber drivers, and casual employees.
- Trusted by students across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and regional towns like Truganina and Queanbeyan.
Final Call: Don’t Miss Your Tax Refund!
If you’re a student working part-time, casual shifts, or gig jobs in Australia, you might be owed a tax refund.Lodge your student tax return today with Tax NextGen fast, simple, and affordable. Book a free tax consultation now or lodge your return online.
