Who we help
International students
We were you. Many of the SAMAF team arrived in Australia as international students — so we know exactly how confusing tax, super and TFNs feel in a new country, and how to make them simple.
Tax help that speaks your language
Between tax file numbers, residency rules, the Medicare levy and superannuation, Australia gives every new student a crash course in bureaucracy. We take it off your plate — in plain English, or in one of the 15 languages our team speaks.
What we do for students
- Tax returns — prepared by a registered tax agent, maximising your refund legally, with residency worked out correctly
- Medicare levy exemptions — including the entitlement statement application most students miss
- TFN and ABN guidance — including whether that delivery or freelance gig should really be on an ABN
- Multiple-year catch-ups — never lodged? We'll bring you up to date without the stress
- Super when you leave — DASP claims handled end to end, even from overseas
Fair prices for student budgets
SAMAF exists to support students and migrants — it's in our purpose statement, not just our marketing. Simple student returns are priced accordingly, your first consultation is free, and our fee is tax-deductible in next year's return.
We also give back through the community that supported us — including volunteering at the CDU Free Tax Clinic, which provides free tax help to eligible people who can't afford an agent.
Student tax FAQs
Do international students need to lodge a tax return in Australia?
In most cases, yes — if you earned income above the tax-free threshold ($18,200) or had any tax withheld from your wages, you generally need to lodge. Many students are owed refunds they never claim. If you earned nothing, we can lodge a simple non-lodgment advice instead.
Am I a resident or non-resident for tax purposes?
Most international students enrolled in courses longer than six months are treated as Australian residents for tax purposes — which usually means lower tax and access to the tax-free threshold. It's one of the most commonly mixed-up areas of student tax, and we check it properly for every client.
Can I claim the Medicare levy exemption?
If you're not entitled to Medicare (which is the case for most international students), you can generally claim a full Medicare levy exemption — saving 2% of your taxable income. You need a Medicare Entitlement Statement to claim it, and we help you apply.
What happens to my superannuation when I go home?
Once you leave Australia and your visa ends, you can claim your super as a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP). We prepare DASP claims end to end, including finding lost super accounts — see our DASP page.
Do you really speak my language?
Between us, the SAMAF team speaks 15 languages. Tell us your preference when you book and we'll match you with the right person where we can.
Get your refund sorted
Free first consultation — in person in Darwin or online anywhere in Australia, in the language that suits you.