Essential Tax Guide for Australia

Getting Started with Taxes in Australia

When you land in Australia, getting your tax setup sorted is one of the smartest things you can do early on. No fluff—just the essentials to help you get started.

Here are the key things you’ll need:

✅ Tax File Number (TFN)
💳 Bank Account
🔐 myGov Account
💼 Australian Business Number (ABN) (optional)

01

Tax File Number (TFN)

Your TFN is your personal tax ID, issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). It’s how the government keeps track of your taxes and superannuation.

If you’re on a Working Holiday Visa, working without a TFN means you’ll get taxed at around 45%.That’s why we strongly recommend you apply as soon as you arrive. Plus, the process is completely free!

📌 What you need to know:

  • Apply through the ATO website.
  • You’ll receive your TFN by email or post within 28 days.
  • It’s valid for life—even if you change your job, name, or move cities.
  • If it’s delayed, contact the ATO at 13 28 61 (Mon–Fri, 8am–6pm).
02

Open a Bank Account

To get paid and manage your Tax Return later, you’ll need an Australian bank account. Just head to any local branch with your passport, and the staff will help you get set up.

🏦 Popular bank options:

  • Commonwealth Bank
  • Westpac
  • NAB (National Australia Bank)
  • ANZ
  • AMP

💡 Pro Tax Tip: Ask the bank if they can help you set up a superannuation account too—it’s often easier to manage everything in one place.

03

Set Up myGov

myGov is your secure portal to access Australian government services online—including your ATO account.

It’s quick to set up, just head to the official site and follow the steps.

💡Pro Tax Tip: Before you leave Australia or travel, download the myGov Code Generator app. It acts as a second login factor and helps you avoid issues accessing your account while overseas. Here’s how to set it up.

04

(Optional) Australian Business Number (ABN)

Thinking about freelancing or working as an independent contractor? You might need an ABN.

🧾 An ABN lets you:

  • Work independently and invoice clients
  • Receive 100% of your pay upfront (but you’ll need to set aside money to pay taxes at the end of the year)
  • Operate as a sole trader or business


You don’t need an ABN if you’re working regular jobs on a Working Holiday Visa—it’s only required for freelance or business work.

📌 To apply:

  • You’ll need your TFN first
  • Apply through the ATO website

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.

Check out our next guide with more tips & tricks for managing your taxes stress-free during your stay in Australia. 👇