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Bronagh(Newbie)Newbie
6 May 2026

Do I need a TFN, ABN or to set up as a sole trader?


I am living in Australia on a 417 working holiday visa. I have been living here since the end of Feb 2026.


I am wondering if I would be able to do freelance work for a UK company? This would be paid in pounds sterling by a graphic designer company in the UK who I would be freelancing for. I would be doing the work physically in Australia. What do I need to do to ensure that I am tax compliant? I am unsure of what I need to apply for / have in place to be freelance for a UK company while living in Australia. It would be for a 3 month maximum period within the terms of the 6 month limit of my visa. Please let me know how to set this up correctly and what I would be responsible for. Many thanks.

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1 replies
19 views
1 replies

All replies

KaraATO(Community Support)Community Support
8 May 2026

Hi @Bronagh,


Whether freelancing is allowed under your Working Holiday visa (subclass 417) is a visa condition. I'd recommend checking with Home Affairs before going ahead with anything.


Because you’d be doing the work while physically in Australia, the income may be taxable here even if the company is based overseas and pays you in a foreign currency.


We have a really handy article that should cover the questions you're asking about how remote working is treated for tax purposes.


Whether you'd need a sole trader Australian business number (ABN) depends on whether you’re carrying on a business in Australia.

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Working holiday visa 417 Tax enquiry | ATO Community