Tax 101 explores the reasons tax is collected and examines how governments use tax to provide services needed by the community, and the role of the ATO. Choose a topic to investigate or use the breadcrumbs to return to the course overview page.
The materials in Tax 101 have been designed to be used in a variety of ways. Each topic is designed as a stand-alone section to be explored by a whole class, small groups or individual students. Information about alignment to the curriculum is via the Curriculum links block on the home page.
PDF versions of the Tax 101 course module are now available on the downloads page.
In 1936, at the request of the Australian Wool Growers Council, a wool tax was imposed to help the production of wool and to extend the use of wool throughout the world. It was levied at 6d (about 5c) per bale on all sales of shorn wool produced in Australia.
Individuals who are Australian residents for taxation purposes pay no tax on the first $18,200 taxable income for the full financial year. This is called the tax-free threshold. They may claim the tax-free threshold from one employer only. Non-residents cannot claim the tax-free threshold.
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Take the Pre-test: How much do I know about tax? quiz first to find out how much you already know about tax and then start this activity to discover some of the underlying issues relating to tax.
Different types of taxes affect taxpayers in different ways. Work out the difference between progressive, proportional and regressive taxes and test your understanding of these three tax types.
Different levels of government provide a wide range of goods and services. Discover what these goods and services are, and explore your own community to see what kinds of things the government provides.
The annual Budget shows how tax revenue is collected and how it will be spent. Explore issues concerning the Budget. Investigate how pressures on the Budget can impact on the type and amount of taxes that are levied.
Taxes have changed and evolved over time. Discover the changes made in the Australian tax system and explore the reasons taxes change.
Learn about the purpose and operations of the ATO. Test your knowledge about tax and find out if you are a tax expert.