Tax deadline days away: Chartered Accountants ANZ urges Australians not to rush their return
Chartered Accountants ANZ
29 October 2026
With only days remaining until the November 2 tax return deadline, Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) is encouraging Australians to take a final check of their income, deductions and records before lodging their return.
Taxpayers have until Monday 2 November to lodge their own tax return this year, after the usual 31 October deadline was extended because it falls on a Saturday.
Susan Franks, Tax Leader at Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, said many Australians risk making avoidable mistakes by rushing to meet the deadline.
“Tax time isn't just about meeting a deadline. It's about making sure your return is accurate, complete and supported by the right information,” Ms Franks said.
“With the 2 November deadline only days away, taking an hour today to double-check your records, verify your income and review your deductions could save you time, stress and potential penalties down the track.
“If you're concerned about any part of your tax return, speak to a Chartered Accountant who is a registered tax agent.
“If you need more time, appoint a registered tax agent before close of business on Friday 30 October. Once you're on a registered tax agent's client list, you'll generally have until 15 May 2027 to lodge your return, or 31 March 2027 if your last return had a tax liability of $20,000 or more.”
CA ANZ has provided the top five things to check before lodging your tax return:
- Don't get caught out by the new $1,000 deduction
Taxpayers may have heard about the Federal Government's new $1,000 standard deduction for work-related expenses, but it does not apply to tax returns for the year ended 30 June 2026 and cannot be claimed this tax time.
"There's likely to be confusion around the new $1,000 deduction because it has received a lot of attention, but it doesn't apply to this year's tax returns," Ms Franks said.
- Review your working-from-home claims
Australians claiming working-from-home expenses should ensure they are using the correct method and have the records needed to support their claim.
"Working-from-home deductions remain a source of confusion for many taxpayers and mistakes can lead to claims being reduced or rejected," Ms Franks said.
- Don't forget your side hustle income
Income from rideshare driving, delivery apps, online content creation, short-term rentals and digital platforms must be declared in your tax return.
"If you've earned income through a platform, don't assume it has slipped under the radar. The ATO has sophisticated data-matching capabilities, so it's important to get your return right the first time," Ms Franks said.
- Shares, crypto and property can trigger a tax bill
Taxpayers who sold shares, managed funds, cryptocurrency or property should consider any gains or losses before lodging their return.
"Many people don't realise a sale or disposal of an investment can have tax consequences, even if they have already reinvested the proceeds," Ms Franks said.
- Remember to claim eligible donations
Taxpayers should ensure any eligible donations made to registered Deductible Gift Recipients are properly recorded and included in their return.
"A quick check of your records now could help ensure you don't miss a deduction you're entitled to," Ms Franks said.
Take the time to get it right
CA ANZ is encouraging anyone who is uncertain about their circumstances to seek professional advice rather than rushing to meet the deadline.
"Rushing your tax return can lead to simple mistakes that create unnecessary stress, delays and potential amendments later on," Ms Franks said.
"If you're unsure, a Chartered Accountant who is a registered tax agent can help you navigate the process with confidence."
About Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand
Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand represents nearly 143,000 financial professionals, supporting them to make a difference to the businesses, organisations and communities in which they work and live. Chartered Accountants are known as Difference Makers. The depth and breadth of their expertise helps them to see the big picture and chart the best course of action.
www.charteredaccountantsanz.com
For more information contact:
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Zoe Delamare, Public Affairs Lead M +61 431 601 002
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Owen Roberts, Public Affairs Specialist M +61 422 644 847 |