Topic
A doctor’s first year in Australia: tax and money
In your first year in Australia you need a tax file number, may need an ABN if you work as a contractor, and need to work out whether you are an Australian resident for tax, which changes how your income is taxed. These guides walk overseas-trained doctors through each step in the order most people meet them.
What these guides cover
- TFN, ABN and GST: setting up as a new doctor in Australia
- Tax residency and the tests the ATO uses
- Income, accounts and property you keep overseas
- Moving from PAYG to private work in your first years
Guides in this topic
Guides for this topic are on the way.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a tax file number?
Yes, if you work in Australia. Employers withhold more tax if you haven’t given them a TFN. You apply through the ATO.
Am I an Australian resident for tax?
It depends on tests the ATO applies to your circumstances, not on your visa alone. Our tax residency guide explains the tests.
Do I need an ABN?
Only if you work as a contractor, for example locum shifts invoiced through your own business. If a hospital or practice employs you, you don’t need one for that work.
What happens to my income from overseas?
Whether Australia taxes it depends on your residency. Tell your accountant about any income, accounts or property overseas so it is handled correctly.
Can DrBooks help in my first year?
Yes. We help overseas-trained doctors set up correctly, prepare their returns and move into a company when their private work makes it worthwhile.
Sources
Last reviewed: · Colin Lua, registered tax agent