How Australians spend their tax refunds

Our infographic tells you the average tax refund and how people say they spent last year's tax refund. We also explain some ways to make the most of your refund.

How Australians spend their tax refunds (accessible text version)

82% - Taxpayers likely to get a tax refund this year ¹
$2,112 - Average tax refund ²
26% - People do their own tax ¹

What MoneySmart users say they did with last year's tax refund:³

29% - Paid bills
21% - Saved it
16% - Didn't get a refund
13% - Loans or credit card payments
9% - Home loan payments
5% - Holiday
5% - Other things (including engagement ring, education, car rego/tyres, party)
2% - Household appliances

Make the most of your tax refund: Work out where you can make a difference

Reduce debt stress

Credit cards
Personal loans
Mortgage
Outstanding bills or fines

Stash it away

Emergencies or unexpected costs
Super
Home deposit

Reward yourself

Take a break
Home improvements
Pamper yourself just a little

Sources:

1 - Australian Taxation Office Annual Report 2013/14
2 - Australian Taxation Office Annual Report 2014/15
3 - MoneySmart poll, August 2015 (n-2124)