Calculate your quarterly BAS: GST collected, input tax credits and net GST payable.
BAS lodgement is one of those admin tasks that's straightforward once you understand what it's asking, but confusing when you first encounter the terminology. This calculator helps you work out your GST liability — what you've collected from customers minus what you've paid to suppliers — so you know whether you'll be paying or receiving money when you lodge.
The basic principle of GST is simple: you collect 10% on your sales, you pay 10% on most business purchases, and you remit the difference to the ATO. The complexity comes from the exceptions — not all sales are taxable, not all purchases include GST, and getting the categories wrong in your accounting software creates problems at BAS time.
This calculator covers the core GST calculation. For capital gains, wages (PAYG withholding), and other BAS labels beyond GST, you'll need your accounting software or a BAS agent.
You must register for GST if your annual turnover is $75,000 or more ($150,000 for non-profit organisations). Below that threshold, registration is optional. Ride-share and taxi drivers must register regardless of turnover.
When you buy something for your business that includes GST, you can claim back the GST portion as an input tax credit. This is what makes GST a tax on the end consumer rather than on businesses — businesses act as collection and pass-through agents.
Many things are GST-free in Australia: most fresh food, health services, educational courses, and financial services. Supplies from overseas may also be GST-free or have different rules. Wages and bank interest don't include GST. Your accounting software should have the correct codes for each category.
Most small businesses lodge quarterly. Businesses with turnover over $20 million lodge monthly. Annual lodgement is available for some small businesses. The ATO sends personalised activity statements with your lodgement schedule.