Australia’s Digital Fuel Receipt System Coming October 2025 – What Motorists Should Know Before the Switch
In a move to modernize record-keeping and promote paperless transactions, Australia will roll out a national digital fuel receipt system starting October 2025.
This initiative, jointly announced by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and Department of Industry, Science and Resources, aims to streamline fuel tracking, reduce fraud, and improve transparency in the fuel rebate and tax reporting processes.
This article provides a complete breakdown of the digital fuel receipt rollout, including who qualifies, how it will work, and what motorists, businesses, and tax agents should expect.
What Are Digital Fuel Receipts?
Digital fuel receipts are electronic records generated during a fuel transaction, replacing or supplementing traditional printed receipts. These receipts will be automatically recorded, securely stored, and made accessible via:
- Your fuel provider’s app or website
- Your linked MyGov or ATO account
- Compatible tax software platforms
The system is expected to standardize data, reduce paper waste, and make it easier for eligible individuals and businesses to claim fuel tax credits or rebates.
When Does the Digital Fuel Receipt Program Start?
The official launch date is October 1, 2025, with participation beginning in major cities and petrol stations, followed by a regional rollout by early 2026.
Key Dates to Remember
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| National Announcement | June 2025 |
| Phase 1 Launch (Metro Stations) | 1 October 2025 |
| Phase 2 (Regional Rollout) | January 2026 |
| Full National Availability | March 2026 |
Major providers like Ampol, BP, 7-Eleven, and Shell are among the first adopters.
Who Will Benefit from Digital Fuel Receipts?
Digital receipts will benefit both individual drivers and businesses, especially those that claim fuel tax credits, fringe benefits, or need accurate mileage tracking.
Eligible Groups Include
| Category | Use Case |
|---|---|
| ABN Holders | Claiming fuel tax credits (e.g., tradies, couriers) |
| Centrelink Recipients | Keeping digital records for transport-related benefits |
| Pensioners/Concession Card | Easier documentation for subsidy claims or reimbursements |
| Small Businesses | Automatic syncing to accounting software (Xero, MYOB) |
| Fleet Operators | Mileage logs, tax tracking, and compliance |
Fuel receipts will be digitally stored for at least 5 years, per ATO audit requirements.
How Will the System Work?
The digital fuel receipt system will be built into existing payment platforms used by fuel retailers. After each transaction:
- The payment terminal logs your purchase details
- A digital receipt is generated and stored securely in the cloud
- If linked, the receipt is also sent to your MyGov or ATO account
- Businesses can sync data to cloud-based accounting tools
You must opt-in via your fuel provider or ATO account to enable automatic digital tracking.
What Information Will Be Captured?
Each digital fuel receipt will include:
- Date and time of purchase
- Fuel type (e.g., ULP, diesel, E10)
- Volume in litres
- Price per litre and total cost
- Station location
- ABN (for business users)
- Tax breakdown (GST and fuel excise)
This makes tax reporting and expense claims far easier and eliminates the need to manually collect paper receipts.
Benefits of the Digital Receipt Program
For Individuals
- No need to keep paper receipts
- Automatic tracking of fuel expenses
- Easier Centrelink documentation
- Helps with budgeting and tax-time claims
For Businesses
- Integrates with Xero, QuickBooks, and MYOB
- Helps with BAS reporting and GST claims
- Reduces paperwork for fleet managers
- Ensures compliance with ATO record-keeping laws
What If You Still Want Paper Receipts?
While the system promotes digital-first, customers may still request printed receipts. However, businesses are encouraged to phase out paper by mid-2026.
Most stations will support SMS or email receipt options for those without a MyGov or fuel app account.
How to Register for Digital Fuel Receipts
If you’re a driver or business owner wanting to enable digital fuel tracking, follow these steps:
For Individuals
- Log in to your MyGov account
- Navigate to “Services > ATO > Fuel Receipts”
- Link your preferred fuel provider (e.g., BP or Shell app)
- Enable “auto-import” of fuel receipts
For Businesses
- Log in to your fuel card provider’s portal
- Select the “Digital Receipts” option
- Link your ABN and accounting software
- Confirm email or cloud sync settings
All data is protected under Australia’s Privacy Act 1988 and ATO digital security protocols.
Australia’s launch of digital fuel receipts in October 2025 marks a major step toward smart, paperless, and efficient fuel tracking. Whether you’re a pensioner, small business owner, or ABN holder, this system simplifies tax reporting, expense tracking, and subsidy claims.
Opt in today, register with your fuel provider, and ensure you’re ready before the official rollout begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I claim Centrelink benefits using digital fuel receipts?
Yes. You can use digital receipts to support transport-related claims, especially under Mobility Allowance or remote area assistance.
Q2: What if I don’t have MyGov or a smartphone?
You can still receive email receipts or request printed versions. However, digital access is encouraged for automation.
Q3: Are digital fuel receipts legally accepted by the ATO?
Absolutely. The ATO recognizes digital fuel receipts as valid evidence for expense claims and audits if stored securely.
