Is 20% enough to set aside?

For most backpackers under $45,000 total income, yes, your rate is 15%, so 20% leaves a buffer. If you also have wages and cross $45,000, save 25%.

Do I charge GST on Uber Eats?

Only if your ABN turnover passes $75,000 (food delivery). Rideshare drivers must register for GST from the first dollar.

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ABN

Setting money aside so your ABN tax bill doesn't sting

Updated 2026-06-16

With an ABN, no tax is taken from your payments during the year, you get the full amount and the bill lands at tax time. The mistake that hurts every year: spending it all, then owing the ATO thousands in one go. The fix is a habit, not a calculation.

The 20% rule

Open a separate savings account (free, with your Australian bank).
Every time you get paid, move 20% of it into that account and don't touch it.
At tax time, your bill is 15% of your net income (revenue minus expenses), usually less than what you saved, so the rest is a bonus.

Bump it to 25% if you also have a TFN job. Your ABN profit and your wages are added together, and once the total passes $45,000, every dollar above is taxed at 30%, not 15%, so 20% may not be enough to cover the top slice.

Track your deductions as you go, every business kilometre, fuel receipt, phone bill and bag lowers your taxable profit, which lowers the bill. And you only deal with GST if your ABN turnover passes $75,000 (rideshare drivers are the exception, they register from the first dollar).

FAQ

Is 20% enough to set aside?: For most backpackers under $45,000 total income, yes, your rate is 15%, so 20% leaves a buffer. If you also have wages and cross $45,000, save 25%.
Do I charge GST on Uber Eats?: Only if your ABN turnover passes $75,000 (food delivery). Rideshare drivers must register for GST from the first dollar.

Let June do the maths for you

Import your payslips and bank statement: June finds your deductions, estimates your refund, and tells you what goes in which myTax box. Free on screen.

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General information to help you find your way, not personalised tax advice. For your exact situation, refer to the ATO (ato.gov.au) or a registered tax agent.