Goods & Services Tax (GST) 


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Thursday 20 May 2010

What is Goods & Services Tax (GST)?

The Goods & Services Tax (GST) is a broad-based tax of 10 per cent on most goods, services and other items sold or consumed in Australia.

Who should register?

If your business has a GST turnover  of $75 000 or more ($150 000 or more for non profit organisations), or if you provide taxi travel as part of your business regardless of your turnover, you must register for GST.

You can also choose to register for GST if your business has a GST turnover of less than this. If you choose to register, you generally must stay registered for at least 12 months.

What does registration allow me to do?

Registering for GST allows you to include GST in the price of most goods and services you sell, and to claim credits  for the GST included in the price of your business purchases. So while you pay GST at each step in the supply chain, your business does not actually bear the economic cost of the tax.

What do I need before I can register?

In order to register for GST your business must first have registered for an Australian Business Number (ABN). If you have not previously registered for an ABN, you can complete the registration for an ABN and GST at the same time.

How do I register?

You can register for GST online through the Australian Business Register , by phoning the Tax Office and requesting a copy of the paper form Adding a new business account, or through your tax agent.

Once I register what are my obligations?

Once you are registered, you will need to include GST in the price of most goods and services you sell. You will also be required to complete an activity statement  every month or quarter, or an annual GST return .

Where can I find out more?

For more information read our pages on GST and Registering for GST, see the Tax Office’s GST for small business  guide, or phone the Tax Office on 13 28 66.