The residence requirement
For citizenship by conferral you must have lived in Australia on a valid visa for 4 years before applying, including the last 12 months as a permanent resident.
Your total time away must not exceed 12 months in those 4 years, including no more than 90 days in the year before you apply.
Using the calculator
The tool counts whole days outside Australia; the departure and return days are not counted. It does not check that all 4 years were on a valid visa, so confirm that yourself. You can request your official International Movement Records from the Department of Home Affairs to match your dates.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply before 12 months as a permanent resident?
Not under the general residence requirement: the last 12 months before applying must be as a permanent resident.
How do I find my exact travel dates?
Request your International Movement Records from Home Affairs. They match what the department will use.
Is this the only requirement?
No. There is also the citizenship test, good character and other conditions.
Are my dates saved?
No. Everything runs in your browser.
Sources
A counting aid. The Department of Home Affairs decides. Disclaimer.