BAS Lodgement Deadlines: What Every Business Owner Should Know

If you run a business in Australia, you’ve probably heard about the Business Activity Statement (BAS). Lodging your BAS on time is not just a legal requirement — it’s also critical for keeping your tax obligations in check and avoiding costly penalties. Whether you manage your own accounts or work with a BAS agent, knowing your BAS lodgement deadlines can save you from unnecessary stress and financial headaches.

In this guide, we’ll break down what BAS lodgement involves, the key deadlines to remember, and how working with the right professionals — like a trusted accountant in Perth or business tax accountant — can make the process much easier.

What Is a BAS and Why Do You Need to Lodge It?

A BAS is a form that businesses registered for GST must submit to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). It reports on various tax obligations, including:

• Goods and Services Tax (GST)

• Pay As You Go (PAYG) withholding

• PAYG instalments

• Fuel tax credits and other tax obligations

Your BAS lets the ATO know how much tax you’ve collected and how much you owe, as well as whether you’re entitled to any credits. Failure to lodge on time can lead to penalties and interest charges — something every business owner wants to avoid.

When Are BAS Lodgement Deadlines?

Your BAS lodgement frequency depends on your business size and ATO requirements:

1. Quarterly Lodgements (most common)

If your GST turnover is under $20 million, you likely lodge your BAS quarterly. The due dates are:

• Quarter 1: July – September → 28 October

• Quarter 2: October – December → 28 February

• Quarter 3: January – March → 28 April

• Quarter 4: April – June → 28 July

2. Monthly Lodgements

If your business turnover exceeds $20 million, you must lodge monthly — due 21 days after the end of each month.

3. Annual Lodgements

Some small businesses with voluntary GST registration can lodge once a year, usually along with their income tax return.

Tip: If you work with a registered BAS agent, you may get extra time to lodge your BAS, thanks to the ATO’s extended deadlines for agents.

What Happens If You Miss a BAS Deadline?

The ATO imposes Failure to Lodge (FTL) penalties for late submissions. These start at one penalty unit (currently $275) and increase depending on how late you lodge and the size of your business.

You may also face interest charges on any overdue amounts. If cash flow issues are stopping you from lodging, a business tax accountant can help you negotiate payment arrangements with the ATO to avoid harsher consequences.

How a BAS Agent Helps You Stay on Track

A BAS agent is a registered professional authorised by the Tax Practitioners Board to lodge BAS on your behalf. They not only help you meet your deadlines but also:

• Ensure accuracy in GST and PAYG reporting

• Claim all eligible credits to reduce your tax bill

• Maintain up-to-date records for compliance

• Represent you in dealings with the ATO

• Offer extended lodgement dates in many cases

By outsourcing to a BAS agent, you can focus on running your business while knowing your tax obligations are in expert hands.

Why Work with a Local Accountant in Perth?

If your business operates in Western Australia, working with a local accountant in Perth can be a game-changer. They understand the unique challenges WA businesses face — from seasonal industries like tourism and mining to regional tax incentives.

A Perth-based business tax accountant can:

• Help you prepare your BAS ahead of time

• Provide advice tailored to WA-specific regulations

• Offer face-to-face consultations for more complex issues

Tips to Never Miss a BAS Deadline Again

• Use Cloud Accounting Software: Tools like Xero, MYOB, and QuickBooks can track your GST automatically and generate BAS reports in minutes.

• Set Automated Reminders: Calendar alerts and accounting software notifications can ensure you’re always aware of upcoming deadlines.

• Reconcile Monthly: Don’t wait until BAS time to update your books — monthly reconciliation saves last-minute stress.

• Engage a BAS Agent Early: Partnering with a BAS agent before your first lodgement period sets you up for ongoing compliance.

• Keep Separate GST Funds: Setting aside your GST collections in a dedicated account prevents cash flow shocks when BAS is due.

ATO Extensions for BAS Agents

One of the biggest advantages of using a BAS agent is access to the ATO’s extended deadlines. For example, if you’re lodging your Q2 BAS (October–December) through an agent, instead of the usual 28 February due date, you may have until 28 March. These extra weeks can make a huge difference during busy business periods.

Final Thoughts

BAS lodgement is one of those non-negotiable tasks in business — but it doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding your lodgement deadlines, using the right tools, and working with a skilled BAS agent or business tax accountant, you can stay compliant and even improve your cash flow management.

If you’re based in WA and want to simplify your BAS process, partnering with an experienced accountant in Perth can give you local insight and peace of mind. Don’t leave your lodgement to the last minute — plan ahead, get expert help, and keep your business on the ATO’s good side.