Australian Tax Office

JohnEdward

Hello,

I went to Australia in January 2016 and returned 12 months later after working for two companies. My first role only lasted a couple of months and then my second job lasted six-months, which is the maximum you can work for a company under the working holiday visa.

During my time in Australia, I was informed I was a resident for tax purposes. I stated this on both my tax forms at both companies and no questions were asked. After the first six months I was informed I could claim tax back, as the financial year ends in June. Happy days! I claimed back the tax from the Australian Tax Office (ATO) and there were no questions asked again.

After leaving Australia I waited until 1st July 2017 to claim back my tax for the second six-months of my 12-month visa (July 2016 - Jan 2017). I was informed before leaving that I should be able to claim back my tax without any problems. I filled out the relevant details and after a six-week wait I was informed that my tax claim was rejected and that I owed the ATO $2000. I was surprised and queried the decision, which led to the ATO confirming I had selected the incorrect status and that I was not in fact a resident for tax purposes. I informed them I was under the impression I was a resident for tax purposes. The companies I had worked for confirmed this and the ATO did not question this when I initially claimed my tax back.

There have been a number of communications between the ATO and I, which have left me feeling frustrated. I know in Australia Malcolm Turnbull has changed the visa system and it is now becoming stricter, however, I feel they have changed their minds because they are trying to claw back as much money as possible.

Has anyone else on this forum experienced something similar? Have you had to pay back tax or have you managed to change their decision? It would be helpful to know as the ATO do not seem very helpful or responsive. I usually have to wait for a couple of months before receiving a decision.

Thanks,
John

ceh209

Try this, from what you've said you're not tax resident.

https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Ind/Residency---working-holiday-or-visit/