Exchanging data with the ATO
We support electronic channels for the 2-way transfer of files between the ATO and external partners.
The most widely used channels for exchanging data with us are the:
- Data transfer facility – for ad hoc data exchanges and some regular transfers using our secure mailbox
- File transfer function – for regular data and reports using our online services
- ATO approved secure file sharing platform – for reports and information not supported through other services. For example, large files or lodgement requirements.
Data transfer facility (DTF)
The data transfer facility (DTF) provides a secure and efficient way of exchanging large volumes of information below a 'protected' security classification.
Users connect to the DTF through their internet browser using authentication details (their user ID and password) provided by us.
Once you have access to DTF, external parties can access the DTF through our website https://datatransfer.ato.gov.auExternal Link.
What the DTF is used for
The DTF is mostly used to support ad hoc bulk data exchanges. That is, files are loaded to a secure mailbox from which they can be accessed by the recipient. It is also used to send data to us where the file type is not supported by the file transfer function.
The DTF is used for some regular data transfers where there are no other enterprise solutions available, such as the distribution of Australian Business Register (ABR) data to government agencies, and to send some superannuation-related data to super funds and their administrators.
DTF key features
The DTF enables you to:
- transact in a secure online environment
- log in securely, with a user ID and password authentication
- receive confirmation that your data has been received
- upload large files (up to 2GB)
- exchange most file types.
Technical information
- Internet Explorer version 6 or later is recommended
- Browser must be Scripts or JavaScript enabled
- Compatible with WinZip and PKZip file compression tools
- Supports files up to 2GB
Getting access to the DTF
To lodge files using the DTF you need to obtain a user ID and password. Each user in your organisation will need to register and have a separate user ID.
To obtain a user ID and password, send a request to ATOBulkDataTransfer@ato.gov.au or contact your liaison officer to arrange access.
Password resets and account unlocks
To request a password reset or account unlock, submit a request with the following details to DTFPasswordResets@ato.gov.au:
- Contact name (must be affiliated to account)
- Account user ID
- Email address
- Contact mobile number (Australian mobile numbers only)
- Is the account locked or do you require a password reset (Select 1).
We action requests between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm AEDT, Monday to Friday.
DTF help and support
For any further help and support using the DTF, contact us by sending an email to ATO Bulk Data Transfer.
File transfer function
The file transfer function is the preferred channel to support the cyclical exchange of structured data, such as:
- Annual investment income report (AIIR)
- Payment summary annual report (PSAR)
- Quarterly tax file number (TFN) declaration (QTFN)
- Superannuation member contributions statement (MCS)
- Taxable payments annual report (TPAR)
- TFN declaration.
Benefits of the file transfer function
The file transfer function allows you to test and lodge files that have been created from your software.
When you submit your file, you will receive on-screen confirmation that your file has been received. Your file will be validated to ensure it is compatible. You can download a validation report to see if the file has been successfully lodged or tested, successfully lodged with warnings, or rejected due to errors.
Other key features of the file transfer function include:
- ability to upload large files without needing to split the file
- option to send multiple files as a single compressed file
- reduced upload time if the file is compressed before submitting
- an easy-to-use, fast and efficient service
- reduced risk of errors and faster processing times than paper or electronic media
- a service that it is provided free of charge, with help available to answer your technical queries.
Note: You can't lodge scanned images or forms, screen prints, spreadsheets or word processing files via the file transfer function (for example,.pdf, .doc, .xls, .jpg, .tif).
How to access the file transfer function
You can access the file transfer function through:
ATO approved secure file sharing platform
The ATO approved secure file sharing platform allows you to transfer data where the volume of information is larger than email will allow. It is a temporary, short-term solution, making it easier and more efficient to share large volumes of information securely to and from third parties, such as a TFN declaration and other sensitive information.
If you need or are required to access the ATO-approved secure file sharing platform, we’ll contact you with a request. We'll include a link to set up your own password for authentication purposes.