A BAS, or a Business Activity Statement, has to be submitted to the ATO four times a year, although some businesses are required to submit more frequently. The ATO uses this form to determine your tax obligations, which includes GST, PAYGW, PAYGI, FBT, WET, LCT, and much more. Are these just a bunch of letters to you? You’re not alone. Filling out BAS forms can be a confusing ordeal for those without a bookkeeper on their team.

The BAS system was first introduced in 2000. It was included, along with the GST, in a significant tax reform program. Though reporting methods have changed over the two decades since its inception, the BAS remains an important obligation for registered businesses of all sizes and industries throughout Australia.