If your Melbourne Fringe event is being paid to an international bank account, you are required to apply for a Foreign Resident Withholding Tax waiver.

What is it?

By law Melbourne Fringe are required to withhold tax from payments made to foreign residents. Entertainers and performers are specifically mentioned in the law, and it applies to all fees and even the box office income you earn while here. Depending on your circumstances the rate is between 25% and 32%.

BUT it’s straightforward to get a waiver.

As long as you can demonstrate that your expenses are greater than your income, the Tax Office will issue you with what is called a “FRWV” (Foreign Resident Withholding Variation) ****and we won’t be required to withhold anything at all.

You need to do four things:

Mid-August:

1. Fill out the FRWV Application pdf. I’ve attached a template for you with added comments to explain what it all means. You can download a blank copy to fill out HERE.
2. Complete the FRW Spreadsheet (see attached for a template). This is an estimated budget that demonstrates that your net income is zero or negative. We’ve added some notes to help you out.
3. You will then need to lodge the form with the Tax Office (more details HERE).

Once you’re in Australia:

1. Once you are in Australia - and not before - apply for an Australian Tax File Number at this link: **https://www.ato.gov.au/iar/#beforeStart**

It’s quick, easy and free.

If you have any questions, send them through to [email protected]