If you’re running a business registered for GST, lodging your Business Activity Statement (BAS) is a key part of staying compliant with the ATO. The first BAS for the 2024–25 financial year (covering July–September) is due 28 September 2025 and it’s essential to get it right from the start.
Whether you’re lodging for the first time or looking to streamline your process, here’s everything you need to know to lodge your first BAS with confidence.
What Is a BAS and Who Needs to Lodge One?
A Business Activity Statement is a form submitted to the ATO that summarises a business’s tax obligations, including:
- Goods and Services Tax (GST)
- Pay As You Go (PAYG) withholding and instalments
- Other taxes (like fuel tax credits or fringe benefits)
If your business is registered for GST (or earning more than $75,000 per year), you’ll need to lodge a BAS either monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on your registration.
Step-by-Step: How to Lodge Your First BAS
Keep Your Records Up to Date
Before you lodge your first BAS, make sure all income and expense transactions have been accurately recorded in your accounting software (like Xero). Double-check that:
- Payroll and superannuation are up to date
- GST has been applied correctly
- Bank accounts are reconciled
Know What Period You’re Reporting On
The first BAS period for FY25 is 1 July – 30 September 2025, with a due date of 28 September. Make sure you’re only including data from that timeframe.
Calculate GST and PAYG
Check your GST on sales and purchases to determine how much you need to pay or are entitled to claim back. If you have employees, ensure PAYG withholding amounts are correct and reported.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced business owners can make mistakes. Here are some of the most common:
- Reporting incorrect dates or figures
- Applying GST to transactions incorrectly
- Forgetting to reconcile bank accounts
- Missing the deadline and facing late lodgement penalties
At Pisani Group, we help businesses avoid these pitfalls with proactive support and a second set of eyes on every detail.
Why It Pays to Lodge Early
Leaving your BAS to the last minute often results in rushed lodgements, missed deductions, or preventable mistakes. Lodging early means:
- More time to check for accuracy
- Less stress around the deadline
- Quicker access to refunds (if applicable)
It also gives you clarity around your cash flow, something every business needs at the start of the financial year.
Need Help Lodging Your First BAS?
Lodging your first BAS doesn’t have to be stressful. At Pisani Group, we make it simple. Our team can:
- Set up your GST and PAYG reporting
- Review your Xero file and clean up any issues
- Accurately prepare and lodge your BAS on time
- Help you understand what you’re paying—and why
Don’t Wait to Ask for Help
If anything feels off or unclear, it’s better to get in touch sooner. The closer to the deadline, the harder it is to fix mistakes.
At Pisani Group, we help clients lodge early, stay compliant, and avoid unnecessary ATO pressure. Whether it’s your first BAS or your 50th, we’ll make sure it’s done right.
