What is the Tax Clinic?

The Chisholm Tax Clinic is a free service that helps eligible individuals and small businesses manage their tax and ATO obligations.

The National Tax Clinic Program is an independent, Australian Government-funded initiative, supported by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). As part of the clinic, you will receive guidance and advice from trained students supervised by qualified tax professionals. We can help you understand your tax, use ATO tools, and stay on track with your obligations, all in a supportive and confidential environment.

Who can use the Tax Clinic?

The clinic supports people who are unable to access professional tax advice due to financial, personal or social challenges.

You may be eligible if you:

  • Are on a low income or experiencing financial hardship
  • Have or are experiencing domestic or financial abuse
  • Are homeless, in custody or living in a detention centre
  • Live in a remote area without access to tax services
  • Experience language or cultural barriers
  • Are affected by illness, disability or mental health challenges

Eligibility is assessed when you submit an enquiry.

What services are available?

The Tax Clinic provides free help with:

  • Understanding your tax situation
  • Tax return preparation and assisting with lodgement
  • Assistance with connecting you with your myGov and ATO records
  • Managing tax debts
  • General tax information and education
  • Support when dealing with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

If your situation is complex, we’ll help you understand your options and next steps.

How much does it cost?

The service is free.

You’ll receive support from students, guided by experienced tax professionals.

How does an appointment work?

Your first appointment is a 45-minute session with one or two students and a supervising professional.

They'll discuss your circumstances with you, gather any additional information required, and help resolve your enquiry.

During and after the session, your case is further reviewed by a qualified tax professional. who may contact you if more information is required or to discuss any advice, or next steps.

How do I book an appointment?

To get started, submit an online enquiry through the Tax Clinic webpage.

We will review your enquiry and a team member will contact you to gain some additional information and discuss your specific circumstances, eligibility and to arrange an appointment.

Appointments are essential.

How can I attend my appointment?

You can choose the option that works best for you:

  • In person at our Dandenong campus
  • Over the phone
  • Online via video call (Teams, Zoom)

Can someone attend with me (for example, a support person or interpreter)?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring a support person or interpreter to your appointment.

If you need additional support, please let us know when booking so we can do our best to assist.

What should I bring to my appointment?

If possible, please bring any relevant documents, such as:

  • Identification (ID)
  • ATO letters or information
  • Income statements
  • Receipts
  • Previous tax returns
  • Access to your MyGov ATO records

Don’t worry if you don’t have everything, we’ll guide you through what’s needed.

How long does it take to get help?

Timeframes can vary depending on your situation and the clinic workload.

We’ll keep you informed throughout the process and let you know what to expect at each step.

Is my information confidential?

Yes. Your information is always kept strictly confidential.

Where is the Tax Clinic located?

Chisholm Dandenong Campus

121 Stud Road
Dandenong VIC 3175

The Dandenong campus is close to public transport, with parking available nearby.

When is the clinic open?

Monday, Wednesday and Friday
10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Who provides the advice?

You’ll receive guidance and assistance from qualified professionals, trained students, supervised by qualified accountants and tax professionals.

This means you receive both personalised support and trusted guidance.

Can you lodge my tax return for me?

The clinic can assist you in preparing your tax return. Depending on your circumstances we may be able to either lodge it with you or guide you through the lodgement process.

What if I’m not eligible?

If you’re not eligible, we’ll do our best to point you towards other services that can help.

Can I get involved in the Tax Clinic as a student?

Yes. The Tax Clinic provides Chisholm accounting students with the opportunity to gain real-world experience helping clients with their tax.

Students work under the supervision of qualified accountants and tax professionals, developing practical skills in a supportive learning environment.

If you’re a current Chisholm student studying accounting, you may be eligible to apply.