Homelessness

Tax clinics for homeless people

Individuals experiencing homelessness remain subject to Australia’s tax laws, yet they are among the most excluded from engaging with the tax system. Tax clinics work to bridge this gap by delivering free, pro-bono tax assistance and financial education to those experiencing homelessness, in collaboration with frontline organisations such as Ruah, St Patrick’s Community Support Centre, Mission Australia, Street Doctor, and Outcare.

Without a fixed address or stable access to technology, many homeless people face significant challenges: no myGov account, limited identification documents, no postal address, and unreliable contact channels. These barriers often result in years of unlodged tax returns, unclaimed refunds, unresolved Centrelink or PAYG issues, and compounding tax debts – further entrenching financial stress and housing instability.

Through targeted outreach, tax clinics are helping individuals reconnect with the tax system. This support enables them to access refunds, consolidate superannuation, and resolve debts, while also restoring their ability to engage with essential government services. For many clients, even modest financial outcomes represent a critical turning point – a chance to stabilise their lives and rebuild.

Number of tax lodgments

For clients experiencing homelessness:

• 80 lodgments were for current year income tax returns
• 318 lodgments were for prior year income tax returns
• 13 lodgments were for current year activity statements
• 13 lodgments were for prior period activity statements

Case study: accessing refunds to rebuild Client C and Client D, a couple experiencing long-term homelessness, had never lodged a tax return and were unsure how to begin. They connected with the Curtin Tax Clinic during an Open Day hosted by Peel Connect. With support from student volunteers and clinic supervisors, their outstanding tax returns were prepared and lodged. Both clients received refunds and were assisted in locating and consolidating lost superannuation accounts. These funds provided immediate financial relief and enabled them to secure temporary accommodation and take early steps toward rebuilding stability in their lives.

 

Student comment ‘On numerous occasions, I have attended open days at organisations supporting homeless individuals, where I have had the privilege of helping those in dire need of resources get their tax affairs on track. Most of the time, this support has resulted in much-needed financial relief through the tax refunds they received.’