Tax deductions for independent support workers
A practical deductions checklist for sole trader support workers: insurance, travel, checks, phone, PPE, home office, evidence rules and what you can't claim.
How deductions actually work
Insurance
Work travel and car costs
Screening, checks and training
Phone, internet and software
PPE, equipment and supplies
Home office, accounting fees and other costs
Evidence rules — what you must keep
What you generally can't claim
Frequently asked questions
What can independent support workers claim on tax?
Common deductions include public liability and professional indemnity insurance, work travel and car costs, NDIS screening and Working with Children Check fees, first aid and training, the work-use share of your phone and internet, PPE and equipment, accounting fees, and a home-office portion. You must have spent the…
Can I claim my car if I drive between clients?
Yes. Travel between clients, to buy supplies or to training is generally deductible. But your commute from home to your first client and home from your last is usually treated as private. You can use the cents-per-kilometre or logbook method — the logbook often gives a bigger claim if you drive a lot and keep valid…
Can I claim my phone and internet?
Yes, but only the work-related portion, not the whole bill. Keep a diary for a representative period (for example four weeks) showing work versus private use, then apply that percentage across the year. If a subscription or tool is used entirely for work, you can claim the full cost.
Do I need to keep receipts for everything?
You need records to support your claims and should generally keep them for five years. Keep receipts and tax invoices, a logbook for car claims, and a diary for phone, internet and home-office percentages. A dedicated business bank account makes this far easier. No record generally means no deduction if the ATO asks.
Can I claim my NDIS screening check and first aid?
Generally yes, when they relate to your current work. NDIS Worker Screening Check and Working with Children Check fees, first aid and CPR certificates, the Worker Orientation Module and role-specific training are usually deductible. Study to move into an entirely new occupation generally isn't. Keep receipts for every…
How much should I set aside for tax?
Because no employer withholds tax for you, set money aside from every payment. Many independent workers put away roughly 25–30% of income as a rough guide, adjusting for their deductions and any super contributions. This isn't a precise figure for everyone, so confirm the right percentage for your situation with an…