Will I be penalised if I have not lodged my tax return by the due date for lodgement?

• This depends on your situation.
• The Australian Tax Office (ATO) will apply late lodgement fines for individuals and can charge penalties and interest for any unpaid tax.
• However if you are owed a tax refund interest is not applicable and penalties are usually not applied.
• It is always best to address any late lodgement issues as soon as possible.
• If there are complex issues involved or a number of years outstanding this may be one area where the assistance of a tax professional can assist you with both the outstanding lodgements and correspondence with the ATO regarding penalties or interest. The ATO may exercise their discretion in these areas.