If your business is planning to claim the Research & Development Tax Incentive (RDTI), important changes are on the horizon. The Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR) has announced that a new R&D registration application form will go live in mid-August 2025.
For many innovative businesses—especially startups, tech firms, or companies in scientific fields—this is an opportunity to maximise support from the government. However, the change also comes with a warning.
Saved Drafts Will Be Deleted
Any draft R&D applications saved in the portal will be permanently deleted when the new form launches. To avoid losing valuable work, we strongly recommend finalising and submitting any current applications before August.
This is especially crucial for companies hoping to access R&D tax refunds or offsets early. Delaying could mean redoing the entire application under a new structure.
What’s Changing?
The updated form is designed to better align with legislation and make it easier for businesses to assess whether their activities qualify. Key improvements include:
- More logical question order and layout
- Clearer focus on supporting documentation
- Higher character limits to allow more detailed responses
- User-friendly features such as drop-downs, tick boxes, and prefilled fields
- Structured fields to reduce confusion in free-text sections
DISR hopes these changes will lead to fewer follow-up questions and more efficient processing.
What It Means for You
While the improvements may streamline eligibility assessments, navigating the new form could become more complex, particularly for first-time applicants or those unfamiliar with the legislation. The new format may require more detailed information and supporting records upfront.
For those without in-house R&D or tax expertise, preparing an application that meets the new standards may take extra time and resources.
How Boa & Co. Can Help
At Boa & Co. Chartered Accountants, we’ve helped many innovative Australian businesses—from tech startups to biotech labs—successfully claim the R&D Tax Incentive. Our experienced tax and compliance advisors can:
- Review your draft application before the August cut-off
- Assist with gathering the right supporting documents
- Ensure your activities meet the eligibility criteria under the new form
- Help you maximise your tax benefit while staying compliant
With a deep understanding of both R&D legislation and practical business needs, we make the process simpler and more effective—so you can focus on innovation, not paperwork.
Don’t Risk Losing Progress or Missing Out on Tax Benefits
If you have a draft saved or plan to submit an R&D Tax Incentive application this year, act now. Avoid losing time, work, or your entitlements by preparing early with the right guidance.
📞 Contact our R&D tax specialists today on 1300 952 286,
📧 Email [email protected], or
🌐 Visit www.boanco.com.au for tailored support with your R&D Tax Incentive application.