For companies with a 30 June 2024 financial year-end, the deadline to register eligible Research & Development (R&D) activities under the R&D Tax Incentive program is fast approaching.
To access this valuable government incentive, you must submit your registration through the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR) customer portal by 11:59pm AEST, Tuesday 30 April 2025.
What is the R&D Tax Incentive?
The R&D Tax Incentive is a Federal Government program designed to support companies undertaking eligible R&D activities. It provides:
- A cash refund for eligible companies (typically those in tax loss), or
- A reduction in income tax payable for profitable businesses
This incentive can significantly improve business cash flow and encourage ongoing investment in innovation, product development, and process improvements.
Why the 30 April Deadline Matters
If you do not meet the 30 April 2025 deadline, you will need to request an extension through the DISR portal. Here’s how extensions work:
- A request submitted before the deadline for an extension of 14 days or less will be automatically approved
- Requests submitted after the deadline or for more than 14 days will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and are not automatically granted
- DISR will consider the reason for delay, evidence provided, and whether the entity has requested extensions before
DISR’s R&D Application Processing Timeframes
DISR aims to process 95% of R&D registrations within the following timeframes:
| Application Type | Timeframe |
| First-time applicants | 40 business days |
| Applications lodged within 6 months of year-end | 20 business days |
| Applications lodged more than 6 months after year-end | 80 business days |
Note: These timeframes can affect the timing of your tax return lodgement and refund — important for managing year-end tax planning and cash flow.
First-Time Claiming? Or Need Expert Help?
If you’re applying for the first time, or if you’ve managed your own claims before but are unsure how to interpret DISR guidance or legislative requirements, now is the time to seek professional advice.
Boa & Co. can help ensure your application is accurate, compliant, and maximises your entitlement.
Speak with Boa & Co. – Your R&D Tax Experts
At Boa & Co. Chartered Accountants, we have extensive experience assisting companies across various industries with their R&D tax incentive claims.
Our services include:
- Assessing whether your activities qualify as eligible R&D
- Preparing technical documentation and eligible expenditure summaries
- Advising on tax implications and cash flow planning
- Managing extension requests or complex situations
Contact us today to avoid missing the deadline:
Phone: 1300 952 286
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.boanco.com.au
Don’t leave your R&D claim to the last minute. Take action now and maximise your tax benefits.