The Australian financial year is from 1 July to 30 June. By 31 October each year all Australian taxpayers must complete a tax return. The Australian Taxation Office http://www.ato.gov.au provides the TaxPack, a self-assessment system for each taxpayer to declare their income and allowances. Every Australian resident who earns income from employment or investment must obtain a Tax File Number (TFN). You should apply for your TFN soon after arrival, either at one of the Tax offices, at Centrelink or online. Within 10-28 days you will receive your TFN. If you become employed prior to receiving your TFN, let your employer know that you've applied. Otherwise you will be taxed on a highest rate.

The Tax Office, in conjunction with the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs (DIMIA) has developed an online registration process that enables permanent migrants and temporary visitors to Australia, who have a visa that allows work rights or permanent migration, to apply for an individual tax file number (TFN) via the Internet on http://www.ato.gov.au Go to 'For Individuals' and then 'Apply for a Tax File Number.'

For those who plan on running their own business, you will need to register for an Australian Business Number (ABN). If you plan to earn in excess of $50,000.00 in one financial year from your business, you also must register for the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Information about taxation obligations of a business and GST can be found on the Australian Taxation Office website http://www.ato.gov.au in the 'For Business' section.