When you lodge tax return in Australia, the most important document you receive afterwards is your Notice of Assessment. Many taxpayers focus only on their refund, but this document contains much more than just a payment summary. It confirms how the Australian Taxation Office has assessed your income tax return and whether you owe tax or are entitled to a refund.
This guide explains what a Notice of Assessment (NOA) is, what information it includes, and what to do if the details are incorrect.
What is a Notice of Assessment?
A Notice of Assessment is an official statement issued by the Australian Taxation Office after your tax return has been processed. It shows:
It is not the same as your tax return. Your tax return is what you submit. The Notice of Assessment is the ATO’s confirmation of the final calculation.
Whether you file through Tax Return Online, use a registered tax agent Perth, or complete your individual tax return yourself, everyone receives a Notice of Assessment once processing is complete.
When Do You Receive It?
The timing depends on how you file:
-
Online lodgement via myTax: usually within 2 weeks
-
Through a registered tax agent: often within 10–14 days
-
Paper returns: may take several weeks
If you used an online tax return Australia platform, you can access the document digitally through your myGov account once it is issued.
What Information Does It Contain?
Understanding the components of your Notice of Assessment is critical.
1. Taxable Income
This is your total assessable income minus allowable deductions. It includes salary, business income, investment earnings, and any other taxable amounts declared in your income tax return Australia.
2. Tax on Taxable Income
This shows the tax calculated based on current tax rates.
3. Tax Offsets and Credits
If you are eligible for offsets, such as low-income tax offsets, they will be applied here.
4. Medicare Levy
Most Australian residents pay the Medicare levy unless exempt.
5. PAYG Credits
If tax was withheld from your salary under PAYG, those credits reduce your final tax payable.
6. Refund or Amount Owing
The most anticipated section shows either:
Tax Refund vs Tax Owing
Many taxpayers assume they will receive a refund every year. However, your Notice of Assessment may show a tax debt if:
-
Insufficient PAYG was withheld
-
You had multiple jobs
-
You earned additional freelance or sole trader income
-
You received investment income
If you operate a business or lodge a sole trader tax return, your chances of owing tax are generally higher unless instalments were prepaid.
Is the Notice of Assessment Important?
Yes. It is an essential financial document and may be required for:
-
Loan applications
-
Visa applications
-
Rental agreements
-
Financial verification
-
Centrelink purposes
You should retain your Notice of Assessment with your tax records. Australian tax law generally requires individuals to keep tax documents for at least five years.
What If There Is a Mistake?
If you believe something is incorrect, you can request an amendment. Common reasons include:
-
Missing income
-
Incorrect deductions
-
Forgotten expense claims
-
Incorrect bank details
You can amend your return online or through your tax return accountant. Once amended, the ATO will issue an updated Notice of Assessment.
Notice of Assessment vs Tax Return
This is a common point of confusion.
| Tax Return |
Notice of Assessment |
| Submitted by you |
Issued by the ATO |
| Shows what you declared |
Shows official calculation |
| Can be amended |
Reflects finalised outcome |
Your tax filing starts the process. The Notice of Assessment finalises it.
What If You Don’t Receive It?
If more than two weeks have passed since you filed your return online, check:
-
Your myGov inbox
-
Linked ATO services
-
Email notifications
If you used a tax agent near me or accountant, they may have received it on your behalf.
If processing is delayed, it may be due to:
Does the Notice Mean You Won’t Be Reviewed?
Not necessarily. The ATO can review or audit a return even after issuing a Notice of Assessment. However, most routine returns are finalised without further action.
If you operate a company and file a company tax return, or lodge a complex business tax return, additional compliance checks may occur depending on risk indicators.
How Long Should You Keep It?
You should keep your Notice of Assessment for at least five years from the date of lodgement. Businesses and trustees lodging a trust tax return or SMSF tax return may have longer record-keeping obligations.
Also read: What Are the Tax Changes in Australia in 2026?
Key Takeaways
-
A Notice of Assessment confirms the official outcome of your tax return.
-
It shows taxable income, tax payable, offsets, and refund details.
-
It is different from the return you submitted.
-
You can amend your return if errors are found.
-
It is an important financial record for future reference.
Whether you handle your income tax return services independently or seek professional assistance, understanding your Notice of Assessment ensures you remain informed and compliant.
If you are unsure about the figures in your assessment or need help correcting errors, consulting a qualified tax professional can prevent future complications and ensure accurate reporting in subsequent financial years.
Tax Return Perth