How to use this australian tax invoice
- Add your business name and your ABN in the “Tax / VAT ID” field. It shows as “ABN” on the invoice.
- Keep the title “Tax invoice” if you are registered for GST.
- Add your customer’s name, and their ABN if the sale is $1,000 or more.
- List what you sold. Prices are entered excluding GST, and the 10% GST is added in Totals.
- Download the PDF. It shows the GST amount and the total.
What the ATO requires on a tax invoice
For sales under $1,000, a tax invoice must make clear:
- that it is intended to be a tax invoice (the title “Tax invoice” does this)
- the seller’s identity and ABN
- the date it was issued
- a brief description of what was sold, including the quantity if relevant, and the price
- the GST amount (if any) payable, or a statement that the total includes GST
- which items are taxable, if not all of them are
For sales of $1,000 or more, the invoice must also show the buyer’s identity or ABN. Using the full layout for every invoice is the simplest way to stay covered. See “Tax invoices” on ato.gov.au for the official rules.
When you must provide one, and when you can’t
If you are registered for GST and a customer asks for a tax invoice, you must give them one within 28 days, unless the sale was $82.50 or less including GST. Business customers need it to claim GST credits.
Not registered for GST? You can’t charge GST or call your document a tax invoice. Set Tax to “No tax”, change the title to “Invoice”, and still include your ABN. Registration is required once your GST turnover reaches the threshold set by the ATO.
GST-free items: choose “Per item” under Tax and set 0% on GST-free lines, so the customer can see which items are taxable.
Frequently asked questions
What is the GST rate in Australia?
GST is 10% on most goods and services. Some items, such as most basic food and some medical and education services, are GST-free.
Do I need to write “Tax invoice” on my invoice?
If you are registered for GST, the document should make clear it is intended as a tax invoice. Titling it “Tax invoice” is the usual way. Without GST registration, call it an invoice instead.
Do I need the customer’s ABN?
Only for sales of $1,000 or more, where the invoice must show the buyer’s identity or ABN. Adding the customer’s name to every invoice is good practice anyway.
Can I enter prices including GST?
The editor adds GST on top of the prices you enter. If you quote GST-inclusive prices, divide by 1.1 to get the price before GST, or set Tax to “No tax” and add “Total price includes GST” to the notes.