Tax Time Tips for Aussie Teachers: What You Can Claim
As tax season rolls around, it’s time to take a closer look at the work-related expenses you may be eligible to claim. If you're a teacher in Australia, you could be entitled to deductions that make a real difference to your return.
Here’s a breakdown of common deductions available for educators, straight from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) — plus a Luxe-friendly explanation of what they really mean.
⚠️ Quick disclaimer: Always seek professional advice from a registered tax agent. Everyone’s situation is different, and this blog is general in nature. But it’s a great place to start!
✅ What Makes an Expense Deductible?
To claim a deduction for a work-related expense:
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You must have paid for it yourself (and not been reimbursed)
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It must directly relate to earning your teaching income
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You must have a record (like receipts or a logbook)
🚗 Car Expenses
You can claim car costs when driving:
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Between two jobs on the same day
E.g. From your school job to your tutoring gig
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Between workplaces for the same employer
E.g. From your regular school to another campus to moderate exams
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From home to an alternative workplace
E.g. From home to a venue for work-related training
You can’t claim the usual home-to-work travel.
👕 Compulsory Uniforms
You can claim the cost of:
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Buying, hiring, repairing, or cleaning a compulsory uniform
It must be specifically required by your school’s policy or agreement – not just your fave teaching tee.
🎓 Self-Education & Study
You can claim courses that:
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Help you maintain or improve the skills needed in your current role
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Are likely to lead to an income increase in your current job
E.g. A course on supporting students with learning difficulties
(but not that pottery class you took for “mental health”) 🫣)
🏠 Work From Home Costs
You can claim a portion of:
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Power and internet bills
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Equipment costs (like a second monitor)
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Phone calls and data used for work
Just be sure to keep a log of hours worked and your calculations.
🧰 Other Work-Related Expenses
Don’t forget about these:
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Phone and internet (work portion only)
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Excursions, camps, school trips you pay for
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First aid courses if you’re the designated first aider
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Teaching aids and resources (like posters, stamps, stickers, or student rewards)
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Professional publications or teaching journals
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Union or association fees
📂 Final Tip: Keep Those Receipts!
Whether it’s a lanyard, stamp set, or online course — if it directly supports your teaching role, keep a digital or physical copy of the receipt. You never know when it might come in handy at tax time.