If you're a sole trader or small business owner in Australia, you’ve probably come across the term BAS. It’s one of those essential (but sometimes confusing) parts of running a business. So, what is BAS exactly — and when do you need to lodge it?

Let’s break it down so you can stay compliant and confident.

What is BAS?

BAS stands for Business Activity Statement. It’s a form that businesses submit to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to report and pay a range of taxes, including:

Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Pay As You Go (PAYG) Withholding – if you have employees
PAYG Instalments – for business owners paying tax in advance
Other obligations – like fringe benefits tax, if applicable

In short, your BAS tells the ATO how much tax your business owes or is due to be refunded.

🗓️ When Do You Need to Lodge BAS?

The frequency of your BAS lodgement depends on your business size and your GST registration.

✅ Monthly

For businesses with a GST turnover of $20 million or more
Due: 21st of the following month

✅ Quarterly (Most Common)

For businesses with a turnover of more than $75,000 and under $20 million
Due dates:
- 28 October – Q1 (July to September)
- 28 February – Q2 (October to December)
- 28 April – Q3 (January to March)
- 28 July – Q4 (April to June)

TIP: If you lodge through a registered BAS or tax agent, you may qualify for extended due dates.

✅ Annually

For businesses with GST turnover under $75,000 ($150,000 for not-for-profits) who have registered voluntarily

❓ Do I Need to Lodge BAS?

You are required to lodge BAS if you are registered for GST.
Even if you’ve had no income or expenses during the reporting period, you still need to lodge a nil BAS.

📌 Tips for Staying BAS-Ready

Use bookkeeping software like Xero, MYOB, or QuickBooks to keep records tidy
Reconcile your bank accounts monthly
Keep all tax invoices and receipts organised
Work with a registered BAS agent to ensure accuracy and avoid late fees
Set calendar reminders for key BAS due dates

🤝 Need Help With BAS?

At The Bookkeeper’s Touch, we specialise in helping small businesses and sole traders with BAS preparation and lodgement. Whether it’s your first BAS or your 40th, we make the process simple and stress-free.

📩 Ready to get BAS-ready with confidence?

Let's Chat!

BAS: What It Is and When to Lodge?