R&D Tax Incentive update: New registration application form launching mid-August 2025
R&D Tax Incentive update: New registration application form launching mid-August 2025
The Department of Industry, Science and Resources (DISR) has announced a significant update to the Research and Development Tax Incentive (RDTI) registration application form, set to go live mid-August 2025. This change is part of the DISR’s broader effort to streamline the application process and improve alignment with legislative requirements.
It is important to note that draft R&D applications saved in the portal will be deleted once the new form goes live. Taxpayers wanting to access cash early should finalise and submit pending drafts to avoid losing progress and prevent reworking the application to meet the new form requirements.
Why the form is changing
DISR has indicated that the purpose of the updates is to make it easier for applicants to assess if their R&D activities qualify. Purported improvements include:
- Better questions and ordering to match legislative requirements
- A greater focus on documentation that substantiates the R&D activities
- Increased character limits for detailed answers
- Simplified usability with drop-down menus, tick boxes, and prefilled fields
- Transitioning some free-text fields to structured input types.
DISR anticipates that these updates should reduce follow-up queries and help companies submit complete and compliant applications more easily.
How BDO can help
BDO’s R&D tax specialists are ready to support clients in navigating these changes. Whether you’re preparing a new application or reviewing your current draft, our team can help ensure your submission meets the updated requirements and maximises your R&D entitlements.
While the updates may make it easier for DISR to check eligibility by aligning the form with laws, the new process could be more complicated for taxpayers. Completing applications might take extra time and effort, especially for those unfamiliar with the changes. However, with good preparation and expert help, these challenges can be managed effectively.
For tailored advice or assistance with your RDTI application, please contact our team.
