Tax File Number

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New Students

Soon after arrival, students need to apply online for a Tax File Number (TFN) from the Australian Taxation Office.

Information sheet for Hobart students applying for a TFN

Information sheet for Launceston students applying for a TFN

Your number will be sent to you within four weeks. There is no fee for applying for a Tax File Number.

Your Tax File Number is confidential and should not be given to anyone but your bank and employer.

When you receive your Tax File Number you should tell the bank the number. If you do not tell the bank, they are legally obliged to take the maximum rate of tax (approximately 50%) from any interest you earn on your bank savings.

If you obtain paid work, you should tell your employer your Tax File Number or they are legally obliged to take tax of approximately 50% from your earnings. You should be asked to complete a Tax File Number Declaration form before you commence work.

As a general rule, an international students who comes to Australia to study for longer than 6 months will be treated as a resident for taxation purposes. Residents can earn $6000 in an income year (1st July to 30 June) before being liable for tax, whereas non-residents pay tax on all earnings. You will find your employer will generally take tax from your earnings and you will have to lodge a tax return at the end of the financial year and will get a refund for your tax from the Taxation Office.