Many Australian employees miss out on valuable deductions each year simply because they don’t know what they can claim. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows workers to claim certain expenses that are directly related to their job. Here’s a breakdown of what you can and can’t include on your tax return.
1. Work-Related Expenses
You can claim costs that are directly connected to earning your income. These may include:
- Uniforms and protective clothing – such as hi-vis gear, safety boots, or occupation-specific attire.
- Tools and equipment – if you buy tools, computers, or other gear for work (you may need to depreciate items over $300).
- Work-related travel – using your own car for work duties (not including driving to and from your regular workplace).
2. Education and Training
If you pay for courses or training that relate directly to your current job, you may claim:
- Course fees
- Stationery and textbooks
- Travel costs to attend training sessions
3. Home Office Expenses
If you work from home, you can claim:
- Electricity and internet (work-related portion)
- Office furniture (desk, chair)
- Computers, printers, and consumables
4. Other Common Deductions
- Union fees and professional memberships
- Charitable donations (must be to registered charities)
- Phone and internet bills (work-related percentage)
5. Expenses You Cannot Claim
- Daily commute costs to and from work
- Meals and coffee during your shift
- Clothing that is not a compulsory uniform (e.g., a business suit)
6. Record Keeping Matters
The ATO requires proof for all claims. Keep:
- Receipts and invoices
- Work diaries (for car use and home office claims)
- Bank statements and digital records
Want to maximise your tax refund? At TaxVisory, we help employees claim every eligible deduction while staying ATO-compliant. Contact us today and let us make tax time stress-free.
