Tax time in Australia often comes with one big question on everyone’s mind: How long will it take to get my tax refund?
Whether you’re lodging your return through an accountant for a tax return or using the ATO’s online services, the wait for a refund can feel endless.
However, the timeframe largely depends on how and when you lodge your return, as well as whether any issues trigger a manual review.
In this blog, we’ll break down the refund timelines, common delays, and tips to get your tax refund in Australia faster.
Typical Tax Refund Timeframe in Australia
The majority of returns filed online through myTax are typically processed by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) in two weeks. If you use a registered tax return accountant or tax return agent, the processing time is usually about 10 to 14 days from when your agent lodges the return electronically.
Standard Tax Refund Timeframes (2024–25):
- MyTax (ATO Online): 2 weeks
- With a registered tax agent: 10–14 business days
- Paper return: Up to 50 business days
Most returns will be processed within a reasonable timeframe, but complex or audit-triggering returns may take longer.
When Can You Lodge Your Tax Return?
What Causes Delays in Getting Your Tax Refund?
In Australia, a number of things can cause your tax refund in Australia to be delayed, such as:
- Errors in the Tax Return
Incorrect bank details, mismatched personal information, or inconsistent income data can trigger delays or reviews.
- Data Matching Delays
The ATO uses data matching to verify your income from employers, banks, and government agencies. If your employer hasn’t submitted your income statement (STP finalisation) yet, the ATO may hold off processing.
- Claiming Unusual Deductions
Your return can be marked for manual review if you make significant or unusual deductions. As a result, your refund may be delayed by a few weeks.
- First-Time Lodgers or Identity Checks
Because of the identity verification process, individuals who are filing their first tax return or who have updated their personal information may experience longer processing times.
Australian Tax Refunds: How to Accelerate
Here are some expert tips from a tax return agent to get your refund faster:
- Lodge Electronically
Online lodgement through myTax or a registered tax return accountant ensures faster processing compared to paper returns.
- Double Check Your Information
Ensure your TFN, bank account details, and income statements are correct and finalised before you lodge.
- Wait for Income Statements to Be Tax Ready
Employers must finalise income statements by 14 July. Lodging too early could cause delays if the data isn’t yet confirmed.
- Use a Registered Tax Agent
A licensed accountant for tax returns can help avoid costly errors and provide faster, compliant submissions. They also receive automatic lodgement extensions, which is great if you’re running late.
How Will You Know When Your Refund Is Coming?
After lodging, you’ll receive a Notice of Assessment (NoA) and a refund summary from the ATO.
You can track your refund status by:
- myGov account (if linked to the ATO)
- Asking your tax return agent or accountant for updates
The status will show one of the following:
- In Progress
- Processing
- Issued
- Delayed – under review
Should You Use a Tax Return Accountant?
Absolutely. If you make a mistake while filing your return, you may have to pay a substantial amount of money. In addition, qualified tax return accountants can assist you in claiming all possible deductions.
A reputable tax accounting company will:
- Examine your earnings and deductions.
- Find any work-related costs you may have overlooked that qualify.
- Ensure comfort by offering audit assistance.
- Provide advice on tax deductions for rental property, cryptocurrency gains, and investment income.
Working with a tax return agent often pays off in the long run, not just in higher refunds, but in avoiding penalties due to incorrect claims.
What If My Tax Refund Is Delayed?
If your refund or assessment notice has not been received after 30 days of lodging, you should:
- Contact your tax agent if you used one.
- To find out if your return is being reviewed, give your tax agent a call.
In most cases, delays are resolved within a few weeks, but you should follow up if your return seems stuck.
Need Help With Tax Returns?
When it comes to tax returns in Melbourne, you can count on Candid Books to make the process as smooth and straightforward as possible for you. Our team of experienced professionals can help you maximise your tax refund in Australia and avoid delays.
Whether you are an individual or a business, we are here to assist you with everything from tax returns and BAS/GST lodgements to investment income, property tax guidance, or even crypto tax reporting.
Need fast, accurate tax help?
Final Thoughts
When you file your tax return online with the assistance of an experienced accounting firm and without errors, you should receive a tax refund within ten to fourteen days. In spite of this, delays can occur due to incorrect information, outstanding debts, or additional ATO reviews. Professional tax return accountants can ensure a smoother, faster process.
Accounting firms like Candid Books can assist you with your tax filing, whether you are an individual, sole proprietor, or small business owner.
Our experienced tax return agents are dedicated to assisting you in obtaining a refund as quickly and accurately as possible. Reach out to us today!
