Checklist Before Leaving Australia
After helping hundreds of people lodge their tax returns from overseas, we’ve seen exactly what works—and what causes headaches.
So we’ve put together this quick checklist to help you get everything sorted before you leave. Follow these steps to make claiming your tax from abroad way easier later on.
Make Sure You Can Log into myGov
Before anything else, check that you can log in to your myGov account.
If you don’t have one yet, set it up now—it’s your gateway to the ATO and other important government services.
Set Up a Secure Login Method (No SMS needed)
This is a must if you’re leaving Australia. Traditional SMS codes won’t work once you lose your Australian phone number, so you need an alternative to access your ATO account from abroad.
Choose your method:
Authenticator App: Download an app like Google Authenticator to generate secure codes even without mobile service or internet. Learn how to link it here.
myID App: The official government Digital Identity. It’s the most secure way to prove who you are from anywhere in the world. Set up your myID here.
Important: You must activate your chosen method while you still have access to your Australian phone number to receive the final setup SMS. It only takes a minute!
Link myGov to ATO Services
Once you’re in myGov, make sure your account is linked to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
This connection is what allows you to lodge your tax return, see your income summary, and manage your super.
Need help? We’ve got a full guide on how to link your myGov to the ATO the easy way.
Check Your Super Fund Account
Log in to your super fund account and make sure your contact details are up to date.
Also, take note of your current balance—if it’s over AUD 5,000, your fund might ask for certified documents before you leave Australia. You can contact us and we’ll guide you through what’s needed and help you get everything sorted.
Keep Your Australian Bank Account Open
Don’t close your Aussie bank account just yet! Any tax refund you’re owed will be paid into it, so make sure it’s still active.
Also, double-check that your contact details and address are up to date with your bank.
Save Your Employers’ Contact Info
Keep a list of all the employers you worked for while in Australia—company name, contact person, email, phone number.
It’s super handy in case something needs to be clarified later when lodging your return or checking payslips.
Need Help? We’ve Got You. 💬
If you run into any issues—whether it’s accessing myGov, linking to the ATO, or figuring out your tax and super—we’ve got your back. Reach out to us anytime via WhatsApp or email, and we’ll help you get things sorted, no stress.
Our next guide walks you through everything you need to know on how to access myGov and ATO while Overseas. 👇