If you’ve ever felt unsure about doing your tax online – or you’re helping someone who is – there are safe, simple ways to learn how it all works. The ATO offers practical tools to help you explore myTax and ATO online services, understand what information’s needed, and access free support if you’re eligible.

ATO Online Services Simulator

The ATO Online Services Simulator is an online training ground. It lets you explore myTax and other ATO online services without any risk or commitment. You can’t accidentally submit a real tax return or make actual payments – it’s purely for learning.

The simulator features eight different scenarios, each representing common Australian tax situations. You practise by acting as the “client” user and clicking through the same style of screens you’d see in real tax records in your MyGov account – entering details, reviewing typical pre-fill information and stepping through lodgment-style workflows.

Because the simulator uses mock data, you can try things out without affecting any real records. If you’re demonstrating for someone else – such as a student, a relative or a person you care for – taking them through the simulator first helps make the real system feel familiar.To try the simulator, visit www.ato.gov.au and search for “Online Services Simulator” using the search bar at the top of the page.

Free support when you need it

If you earn $70,000 or less and have straightforward tax affairs, the Tax Help program offers free assistance from July to October each year. Accredited volunteers can help you lodge your tax return online, create a myGov account, lodge amendments or determine if you need to lodge a return at all.

You can access Tax Help support online, by phone, or in person at centres across Australia. The Tax Help volunteers understand that many people feel uncertain about digital tax processes and are specifically trained to provide patient, supportive guidance.

If your income exceeds $70,000 or you have more complex tax affairs – such as running a business, owning rental properties, or dealing with capital gains tax – the National Tax Clinic program might be suitable. This government-funded initiative operates through universities across Australia, where tax students provide free advice under the supervision of qualified professionals.