Understanding R&D Tax Incentive Registration Deadlines

Fortuno Lawyers
Sep 20
2 min read

Updated: Oct 9

Businesses conducting eligible research and development (R&D) activities must formally register these activities within a set timeframe. For organisations with a non-standard financial year ending 31 December 2024, the final opportunity to submit their registration via the R&D Tax Incentive portal is by 11:59 PM (AEST) on Friday, 31 October 2025.

Why timely submission matters

Failure to lodge your application by the deadline could jeopardise your ability to access R&D tax benefits. While it is possible to request additional time, such requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis and are not automatically approved. Key considerations for approval include your justification, supporting documentation, and any previous extension history. Submitting an extension request before the original deadline increases your likelihood of success.

New to the R&D Tax Incentive? Don't do it alone

If this is your first time navigating the R&D Tax Incentive or if you’re uncertain about how the relevant legislation or guidance from the Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR) applies to your situation, consulting with an R&D specialist early in the process is strongly recommended.

DISR R&D Application Processing Times

DISR has established internal benchmarks for issuing registration notices based on when applications are submitted and your entity’s registration history:

New applicants: Target processing within 40 business days
Applications lodged within 6 months of the income period's end: Processed within 20 business days
Applications submitted more than 6 months after the income period ends: May take up to 80 business days

Being aware of these timeframes can help with financial forecasting and aligning your R&D claim with your tax return.

Seeking Expert Guidance

The R&D Tax Incentive is a powerful tool to support innovation and offset development costs, but it comes with strict procedural obligations and deadlines. To take full advantage of the program, ensure your application is on time and fully compliant. If you're unsure where to begin or how to proceed, professional advice is a valuable investment.

Ready to move forward? Schedule a consultation to discuss your R&D plans and ensure your application is handled with precision and care.

Whether you need help interpreting eligibility rules, preparing documentation, or understanding what qualifies as eligible R&D activity, experienced guidance can reduce risk and improve outcomes.

Book a consultation