Working holiday maker tax rates in Australia

The simple version

Working holiday makers are usually taxed from the first dollar they earn. That is why a backpacker refund is often smaller than a resident worker earning the same amount.

Your employer matters

Employers should register with the ATO as working holiday maker employers. If the wrong rate was used, the calculator can help you compare your income and tax taken out with an estimate.

Your TFN matters too

If you do not give your employer a tax file number, more tax may be taken from your pay. You should still use the income statement from myGov when estimating your tax return.

What to enter in the calculator

1. Choose “Working holiday maker visa”.
2. Add your total income from all jobs.
3. Add the total tax already taken out.
4. Add only work costs you paid yourself.
5. Check Medicare if you were on a temporary visa.