Resident for tax purposes

[itsmylife08]

I've just checked the details on my N.A.B account and they have me down as a resident for tax purposes, surely that can't be correct, can it?  I thought that you had to be in the country for around 6-12 months for the record I'll be away for 2 years in June. 

This leads me to Q2 how long is it advisable to be away before returning for a short stay?

Thanks in advance Itsa 

[Denis-NFA]

itsmylife08

Itsa, check out the ATO Your tax residency

[bear]

This is my story should I ever need one, because; I don't think I could be classed as having permanently migrated to another country if I'm only staying there on non immigrant visa extensions of stay. 

"In practice, if you're a resident who has always lived in Australia, you'll retain a domicile here when you're absent overseas, unless you choose to permanently migrate to another country."

www.ato.gov.au/individuals-and-families/coming-to-australia-or-going-overseas/residency-tests/residency-the-domicile-test

There's been a thread running on another forum for eight years, arguing the toss over what exactly makes you an Australian tax resident for tax purposes. I also see in Denis-NFA 's link that the 183 day rule favoured by one particular poster on there only applies to people coming into Australia and not citizens. I won't be helping them out on that!! Their particular bone of contention boils down to SFR's who live permanently OS who need to pay 30+% tax if they're not in Oz for around 45 days a year. Of course they are determined to try and drag OAP'ers into that same argument by way of the pension being classed as earnings and discounting the special tax concessions that are applied to it.

Essentially, just trying to spread fear and intimidation into less well off expats; much like the Thai tax residency shock & awe campaign, except continuing for the last eight years. And it all hinges on if the legislation is ever changed. 🤣 

Don't tink too mutt!!  Cheers 🐻

[itsmylife08]

Agreed bear,

Here in the Philippines a fair percentage of foreigners are on a tourist visa like myself which I have been for almost 9 years now,plus being a foreigner I can't own a house ,my wife has that privilege!!

The danger for me would be to become a permanent resident which may be like a red flag to a bull🐂 should they find out.Plus I've got another little baba who will be another little Aussie battler in the not too distant future.

Cheers for the advice bear and my good mate Denis

Itsa 😁