How Long Does a Tax Return Take? ⏳ Here’s How Long It Really Takes

Are You Waiting on Your Tax Refund? Here’s What You Need to Know

Tax season can bring both stress and anticipation—especially when you’re counting on a tax refund in Australia. While lodging your tax return might take less than an hour, the waiting game for your refund can feel like forever. So, how long does it really take for a tax return to be processed by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO)? Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned taxpayer, understanding the timeline can ease some of that uncertainty.

Let’s break it down.

Average Tax Return Processing Time in Australia

The ATO aims to process most electronic tax returns within two weeks—provided everything is in order. Paper returns take significantly longer, with processing times of up to 10 weeks.

Method of Lodgement	Estimated Processing Time
Online via myGov (linked to ATO)	Within 2 weeks
Through a Registered Tax Agent	Within 2 weeks
Paper Tax Return	Up to 10 weeks

Note: These are general figures. Actual processing times can vary based on several factors, including submission date and the complexity of your return.

Key Factors That Can Affect Your Refund Timeline

Several elements can delay your tax return, even if you lodged it correctly:

• Pre-fill Data Availability: The ATO receives income information (e.g., from employers or banks) around late July. Lodging too early may result in missing or incorrect data.
• Manual Reviews: If the system flags unusual activity or discrepancies, your return may be checked manually—extending the timeline.
• Outstanding Debts: Any debts owed to government agencies (e.g., Centrelink or HELP/HECS) may be deducted from your refund.
• Incorrect Information: Typos in your name, bank details, or TFN can slow down the process significantly.

How to Track the Status of Your Tax Return

Once you’ve lodged your return, you can check its status using one of the following:

• Online via myGov: This is the easiest and fastest method. Navigate to the ATO section to view real-time updates.
• ATO App: A mobile-friendly way to track your tax return on the go.
• Phone: You can call the ATO at 13 28 61 for assistance, though wait times may be long during peak season.

For step-by-step instructions on using myGov to check your return, visit the official ATO guide at https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Lodging-your-tax-return/After-you-lodge/

When to Follow Up With the ATO

If it’s been more than 30 days since you’ve lodged your return online and you haven’t received your refund—or any communication—it’s time to get in touch with the ATO. Keep your lodgement receipt and identification documents handy when you call.

Tips to Speed Up Your Tax Return

Want to get your refund quicker? Follow these best practices:

• Lodge online via myGov for faster processing.
• Wait until late July to ensure all pre-fill data is available.
• Double-check your information, especially bank account details.
• Declare all your income, including side gigs and investment earnings.
• Use a registered tax agent if you’re unsure about deductions or entitlements.

Final Thoughts

Timing your tax return right and lodging it correctly can make a world of difference in how fast you see that money in your account. While most Australians receive their tax refund within two weeks, a simple mistake or delay in income reporting can hold things up much longer. Always check for accuracy, track your return, and be patient—especially during peak periods in July and August.

With a little preparation, you can eliminate guesswork and avoid unnecessary delays during tax time.