Tax time can be stressful, especially for students, casual employees and people who are new to the workforce.
Questions about tax returns, myGov, deductions and ATO requirements can quickly become overwhelming. This is particularly true if you're lodging your tax return on your own for the first time.
The ATO Tax Help Program may be able to help.
AUSactive is encouraging eligible members of the fitness and exercise industry to explore the ATO Tax Help Program. It is a free and confidential service designed to help eligible individuals complete their tax obligations with confidence.
The program provides support from accredited volunteers who can assist with lodging tax returns and navigating common tax-time requirements.
Who Could Benefit?
The ATO Tax Help Program may be particularly useful for:
- Students studying fitness, sport, recreation or allied health
- Casual employees working in gyms, studios and leisure facilities
- Reception and administration staff
- Part-time team members
- Early-career exercise professionals
- Employees earning approximately $70,000 or less with simple tax affairs
For employers, this is also a valuable opportunity to support staff and students during tax time.
Sharing information about free tax support can help employees and students better understand and manage their tax obligations.
What Assistance Is Available?
ATO-trained volunteers can help eligible individuals with a range of tax-related tasks, including:
- Lodging a tax return
- Amending a previously lodged tax return
- Creating a myGov account
- Linking myGov to the ATO
- Claiming eligible refunds
- Submitting a non-lodgment advice
Support is available in several ways, including:
- Online
- By phone
- In person at locations across Australia
Appointments are available until 31 October.
Important Eligibility Information
While many people working or studying in the fitness industry may qualify, it is important to understand the eligibility requirements.
The ATO Tax Help Program is generally intended for individuals with simple tax affairs. According to the ATO, the program is typically available to people earning around $70,000 or less who have straightforward tax situations.
Individuals who operate as a business owner, sole trader or independent contractor are generally not eligible.
This is particularly important for the exercise and active health industry, where many professionals work as contractors, sole traders or business owners.
If you are not eligible for the program, you may still be able to share this information with employees, students, casual staff and early-career professionals in your network who may benefit.
A Valuable Resource for Employers
At AUSactive, we're always looking for practical ways to support not only business owners, but also the people who help our industry thrive every day.
If you operate a:
- Gym
- Studio
- Health club
- Leisure facility
- Franchise
- Training organisation
- Education provider
consider sharing information about the ATO Tax Help Program with your team, staff, students and graduates.
Providing access to helpful resources is a simple yet meaningful way to support people during tax time.
How to Get Started
If you think you may be eligible for the ATO Tax Help Program, the first step is to review the ATO's eligibility requirements.
You can also learn more about the support available and how to prepare for lodging your tax return.
Useful Resources
Learn about the ATO Tax Help Program
Visit the Australian Taxation Office to learn more about the program and available support.
Understand the Eligibility Requirements
Check the ATO's eligibility information before making an appointment.
Create and Link Your myGov Account
Find out how to create a myGov account and link it to the ATO.
Get Ready to Lodge Your Tax Return
Access information to help you prepare before lodging your tax return.
Supporting Our Industry Beyond the Workplace
AUSactive is committed to supporting fitness professionals, students and businesses both in and outside the workplace.
Whether you're a student completing your first tax return, a casual employee looking for extra guidance, or an employer wanting to support your team, the ATO Tax Help Program may be a valuable resource.
If you're eligible, now is a great time to explore the support available before appointments close on 31 October.
If you're not eligible because you operate as a sole trader, contractor or business owner, consider sharing this information with employees, students, colleagues or friends who may benefit.
Take the Next Step
Read more about the ATO Tax Help Program and check your eligibility.
