Staying on top of ATO deadlines is essential for individuals and businesses to avoid unnecessary stress, penalties, and cash flow issues. Missing key lodgement or payment dates can lead to fines or additional charges, which can impact your financial stability. At JD Scott + Co, we help clients stay organised and compliant with personalised accounting and tax services.
Monthly Lodgement and Payment Deadlines
For businesses lodging BAS or PAYG instalments monthly:
- 21st of Each Month:
- Monthly Installment Activity Statements (IAS) lodgement and payment.
- PAYG withholding payment due for the previous month.
Example: IAS for January 2026 must be lodged and paid by 21 February 2026.
Quarterly Lodgement and Payment Deadlines
For businesses and individuals lodging quarterly:
- 28 October 2025: First Quarter BAS and PAYG instalments (July–September 2025).
- 28 February 2026: Second Quarter BAS and PAYG instalments (October–December 2025). (Extended due date for agents lodging on behalf of clients).
- 28 April 2026: Third Quarter BAS and PAYG instalments (January–March 2026).
- 28 July 2026: Fourth Quarter BAS and PAYG instalments (April–June 2026).
Annual Lodgement and Payment Deadlines
- 31 October 2025:
- Deadline for individual tax returns if self-lodging without a registered tax agent.
- 15 May 2026:
- Extended lodgement date for individual and company tax returns if using a registered tax agent and meeting earlier lodgement criteria.
- 30 June 2026:
- Superannuation contributions must be received by this date to be deductible in the 2025–26 financial year.
Superannuation Deadlines
Employers must ensure Superannuation Guarantee (SG) contributions are paid quarterly:
- 28 October 2025: Quarter 1 (July–September 2024).
- 28 January 2026: Quarter 2 (October–December 2024).
- 28 April 2026: Quarter 3 (January–March 2025).
Payday Super
Please note that from 1 July 2026, employers will be required to pay employees’ super contributions at the same time as salary and wages. SG contributions will generally need to arrive in employees’ super funds within 7 business days of payday.
It’s important that business owners and payroll professionals are prepared for the coming changes. If you would like more information, see the ATO guidance here: Payday Superannuation.
Tax Payment Deadlines
- PAYG Instalments: Payments aligned with quarterly or monthly BAS deadlines.
- Income Tax Payment:
- Payment for individuals and businesses is typically due on the date specified in the Notice of Assessment.
Deadlines and Keynotes
| Quarter | Deadline | Obligation | Key Notes |
| Q1 | 28 January 2026 | Superannuation Guarantee (SG) payments | Ensure payments are received by funds by this date to avoid SGC penalties. |
| 28 February 2026 | BAS for December quarter, PAYG instalments | Late lodgements may attract penalties and interest. | |
| 31 March 2026 | Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) year ends | Ensure FBT calculations are accurate for reporting. | |
| Q2 | 28 April 2026 | SG payments for Jan-Mar 2025 | Use the SBSCH or a clearing house for efficient processing. |
| 21 May 2026 | BAS for March quarter, PAYG instalments | Review GST credits and liabilities before submission. | |
| 30 June 2026 | End of Financial Year (EOFY) | Finalise payroll, lodge STP, and prepare for EOFY reporting. | |
| Q3 | 1 July 2026 | Payday Superannuation is introduced | Ensure super contributions are paid alongside salary/wages |
| 28 August 2026 | BAS for June quarter, PAYG instalments | Ensure accurate reporting for EOFY data included in this quarter. | |
| 30 September 2026 | Lodge Taxable Payments Annual Report (TPAR) | Required for specific industries like building, cleaning, or courier work. | |
| Q4 | 28 November 2026 | BAS for September quarter, PAYG instalments | Submit early to avoid last-minute technical issues with the ATO portal. |
| Annual | 31 October 2026 | Individual tax return deadline (self-lodged) | Submit on time to avoid penalties unless using a registered tax agent. |
| Annual | 15 May 2027 | Extended tax return deadline (via agent) | Only applicable if meeting prior lodgement and payment criteria. |
Important Notes for Lodgements and Payments
- Timely Submissions Prevent Penalties: Missing ATO deadlines can result in fines and interest charges.
- Plan for Processing Delays: Payments and lodgements must be completed by the due date. Allow additional time for bank processing or system delays, especially when using third-party platforms.
- Use Registered Tax Agents Wisely: If you engage a registered tax agent, you may be eligible for extended lodgement deadlines. Ensure all documents and information are provided to your agent well before the cut-off date.
- Monitor Superannuation Deadlines Closely: Superannuation contributions must be received by the employee’s fund by the due date to count as on time. Late payments may attract the Superannuation Guarantee Charge (SGC).
- Keep Records Up to Date: Accurate and detailed records of all financial transactions, payments, and correspondence with the ATO are essential for compliance and auditing purposes.
- Review Notices from the ATO: Notices and statements from the ATO often include specific deadlines. Mark these dates to avoid missing obligations.
Stay Ahead of Your Deadlines with JD Scott + Co
Navigating ATO deadlines can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At JD Scott + Co, we specialise in helping SME businesses manage their tax compliance obligations. From tracking lodgements to managing superannuation deadlines, our team ensures you stay compliant.
Let us handle the complexities so you can avoid penalties and streamline your financial processes. Contact JD Scott + Co today to learn how our accounting services can keep you on track for success.
We also put up monthly reminders of ATO deadlines on our social media pages: LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram. Follow us to stay up-to-date.
