A Tax File Number (TFN) is one of the first things you need to sort out when you arrive in Australia. Without it, your employer will withhold tax at the highest rate (47%), and you won't be able to properly manage your tax return. The good news: applying is completely free and takes about 20 minutes online.
What is a TFN?
A TFN is a unique 9-digit number issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). It identifies you for all tax and superannuation purposes in Australia. You keep the same TFN for life — even if you change jobs, move states, or become a citizen.
Who needs a TFN?
- →Anyone starting a job in Australia — give it to your employer when you start
- →Students with a part-time job — even casual work requires a TFN
- →Anyone opening a bank account — banks ask for it to apply the correct tax on interest
- →Anyone lodging a tax return — required by the ATO
- →Anyone applying for government benefits — Centrelink, Medicare etc.
How to apply — step by step
- →Step 1: Go to the ATO website — ato.gov.au — and search 'Apply for a TFN'
- →Step 2: Select your visa type (e.g. Student visa, Working Holiday, Skilled migrant)
- →Step 3: Complete the online form — takes about 15–20 minutes
- →Step 4: You'll need: your passport number, Australian address, and date of birth
- →Step 5: Submit — you'll receive your TFN by post within 28 days, or sometimes by email
- →Step 6: Keep your TFN private — never share it publicly
Important: Applying for a TFN is completely FREE through the ATO website (ato.gov.au). Never pay anyone to apply for a TFN on your behalf — it is a scam. Migration agents and other services that charge for TFN applications are misleading you.
What if my employer asks for it before I receive it?
Tell your employer you have applied and are waiting for your TFN. They must give you 28 days to provide it. During this time, they should tax you at the normal rate. If they withhold at the emergency rate (47%) before 28 days, ask them to fix it once you receive your TFN.
Common questions
- →Can I work without a TFN? Yes, temporarily — but you'll be taxed at 47% until you provide one
- →How long does it take? Usually 28 days by post, sometimes faster by email or myGov
- →Can I apply as a student visa holder? Yes — student visa (Subclass 500) holders can apply
- →Is myGov the same as a TFN? No — myGov is a portal to access government services. Your TFN is separate
- →What if I lose my TFN? Call the ATO on 13 28 61 or log in to myGov to retrieve it
After you get your TFN
- →Give it to your employer — fill in a Tax File Number Declaration form (available from your employer or ATO website)
- →Give it to your bank — when opening an account, provide your TFN so interest is taxed correctly
- →Set up myGov — link your TFN to myGov to track your tax, super, and lodge your tax return
- →Lodge your tax return — Australian financial year runs July 1 to June 30. Lodge by October 31 each year
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