Author: RachATO(Community Support)Community Support 22 Mar 2021
Hi @casehey,
Your residency status for tax purposes in Australia is self-determined, which means we aren't able to provide a definite yes/no answer for you on the forum. However, we have a few tools on our website that will help you work this out and I'll provide the link below. It's relatively easy and should only take between 5-10 minutes for you to complete.
On the same page there's also a simple table (Are you a resident for tax purposes?) with common scenarios and their probable residency determinations.
Generally, if you're studying a course in Australia that lasts for 6 months or more, you may be considered an Australian resident for tax purposes, but you should still complete the online tool (discussed above) for a more accurate determination.
As for the tax-free threshold, you must be considered an Australian resident for tax purposes to claim this. If you're considered a foreign resident for tax purposes, then the tax-free threshold doesn't apply. Meaning you aren't able to claim it.
Hopefully this helps, and best of luck with your studies!
Links:
Work out your residency status for tax purposes
Studying in Australia
RachATO