Understand your tax status
in Australia
Your visa and circumstances determine which tax rates apply to your Australian income. Knowing your status can save you thousands of dollars.
Working Holiday Maker (417/462)
| Taxable income | Tax on this income |
|---|---|
| $0 - $45,000 | 15% |
| $45,001 - $135,000 | $6,750 + 30% |
| $135,001 - $190,000 | $33,750 + 37% |
| $190,001+ | $54,100 + 45% |
Australian Resident for tax purposes
| Taxable income | Tax on this income |
|---|---|
| $0 - $18,200 | Nil |
| $18,201 - $45,000 | 16% |
| $45,001 - $135,000 | $4,288 + 30% |
| $135,001 - $190,000 | $31,288 + 37% |
| $190,001+ | $51,638 + 45% |
Potential savings
If you qualify as an Australian resident for tax purposes, you could be entitled to up to $2,462 back in refund on an income of $45,000. We assess your eligibility when preparing your tax return.
Resident classification
Can you be taxed as a resident?
Working Holiday visa holders may be classified as Australian residents for tax purposes if they meet all of the following conditions:
You hold a passport from one of the NDA countries (listed below).
Your ordinary place of residence is in Australia.
You have an intention to live in Australia.
You stay in Australia for a cumulative 183 days in the tax year.
NDA Countries (Non-Discrimination Agreement)
📅 The Australian tax year runs from 1 July to 30 June.
🎓 Student visa (500) holders are generally treated as residents for tax purposes.
Frequently asked
Tax residency questions
What is tax residency?
Tax residency determines which tax rates apply to your income in Australia. There are three categories: non-resident, working holiday maker (417/462 visa), and Australian resident for tax purposes. Each category has different rates and thresholds.
Am I a resident or working holiday maker for tax?
By default, holders of 417 or 462 visas are taxed as working holiday makers at 15% from the first dollar. However, if you are from an NDA country (Non-Discrimination Agreement) and meet specific conditions, you may qualify to be taxed as an Australian resident - which means a $18,200 tax-free threshold.
What are NDA countries?
NDA stands for Non-Discrimination Agreement. Citizens from these countries may be entitled to be taxed at resident rates if they meet residency tests. The countries are: Chile, Finland, Germany, Israel, Japan, Norway, Turkey, and the United Kingdom.
How much can I save if I am classified as a resident?
On an income of $45,000, the difference between WHM tax ($6,750) and resident tax ($4,288) is $2,462. That is money you could be refunded if you qualify for resident status. We assess your situation and apply the correct status when lodging your return.
What about student visa (500) holders?
Student visa (500) holders are generally treated as Australian residents for tax purposes, meaning they benefit from the $18,200 tax-free threshold and lower marginal rates.
Now that you understand your residency, continue filling out your tax return.