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23 Apr 2026

I am an Australian citizen and have been an Australian resident for tax purposes since I began lodging returns. In early May, I will move to the UK on a 5-year visa, with the intention of returning to Australia at the end of that period.


My Australian home has recently been listed for sale and is expected to sell within 1–2 months. However, it is unlikely a contract will be signed before I depart. Additionally, I have already sold some shares, before departing. I am seeking clarification on how these CGT events would be treated.


I understand the three residency tests. After reading through TR 2023/1 and based on my circumstances, I don't think I meet the requirements of the “resides” or “domicile” tests, but am uncertain how the 183-day test applies.


I only made the final decision to relocate after my UK visa was granted in March (more than 183 days into the 2025–26 financial year) and would appreciate guidance on the following:


  1. Am I considered a resident for tax purposes under the 183-day test because my intention to move overseas was only finalised after more than 183 days of the financial year had passed?
  2. If I cease to be a tax resident, am I treated as a non-resident for the entire financial year, or only from the date I leave Australia (i.e. can residency be apportioned pro rata)?
  3. If residency is apportioned, how would this apply to CGT events (such as selling property or shares) that occur within the same financial year, both before or after I depart Australia?

Thanks for your time.

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2 replies
38 views
2 replies

All replies

YellowPotato(Taxicorn)Taxicorn
24 Apr 2026

Best to see a tax agent or ask ATO's technical assistance


I think you are misunderstanding tax residency and how to apply the tax residency tests. It's not an all or none, it's about your residency on each day.


  1. 183 day test is not useful for your situation since you are leaving. 183 day test/resides test is more useful for determining tax residency after entering Australia. The more relevant test would be domicile test for the period after you leave
  2. If you are considered a foreign tax resident (for Australian tax purposes), you would be foreign tax resident starting the day after you leave. You can be part year Australian tax resident
    1. https://www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/coming-to-australia-or-going-overseas/your-tax-residency/australian-resident-for-tax-purposes#ato-PartyearAustralianresident
  3. Lots of issues that are best to ask a registered tax agent
    1. Main residence exemption depends on your tax residency on the day of the CGT event (contract date). Generally, foreign tax residents don't have main residence exemption after 30 June 2020
    2. Foreign tax residents don't have CGT discount after 8 May 2012. Generally, if not Australian resident the whole time whilst owning a CGT asset then CGT discount is reduced
    3. For CGT purposes, Non-Taxable Australian Property can be disposed on day you leave. If you don't, the non-taxable Australian property becomes Taxable Australian property

In early May, I will move to the UK on a 5-year visa, with the intention of returning to Australia at the end of that period.

My Australian home has recently been listed for sale

  • I do not know for sure what tax residency you would have after leaving, I would be leaning towards Foreign tax resident because of the 5 year period and selling your home. Best to ask a tax agent or ATO's technical advice

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How to interpret 183-day test when moving overseas late in the financial year? | ATO Community