This is general information only. A tax deduction generally needs to be paid by you, not reimbursed, directly connected to earning your income, and supported by records. Check the ATO teachers and education professionals deduction guide or ask a registered tax agent before lodging.
Classroom supplies and teaching resources
Teachers may be able to claim classroom materials, stationery, teaching aids, subscriptions and resources used for current teaching work where they are not reimbursed.
If an item is used privately as well as for work, only the work-related portion should be claimed.
Professional development and self-education
Courses, seminars, conferences and professional learning may be deductible when they maintain or improve skills used in your current teaching role.
Training for a new career or unrelated income stream can be treated differently, so keep the course outline and work connection clear.
Union fees, memberships and registrations
Union fees, professional association memberships, teaching registration and accreditation costs may be claimable when connected to your current work.
Home office, phone and internet
If you prepare lessons, mark work or complete required administration from home, you may be able to claim eligible home office, phone and internet work-use costs.
Keep records of hours, usage and costs rather than relying on a rough estimate at tax time.
Travel between schools or campuses
Travel between schools, campuses or work locations during the same workday may be deductible in some circumstances. Ordinary home-to-school travel is usually private.
What teachers usually cannot claim
- Ordinary clothing, shoes and grooming.
- Private childcare or family costs.
- Commuting to your regular school.
- Reimbursed expenses.
- Private gifts, meals or entertainment.
Records to keep
- Receipts and invoices.
- Professional learning records and agendas.
- Rosters, school bookings and travel records.
- Phone, internet and home office usage notes.
- Employer reimbursement records.
Common questions
What teacher tax deductions can I claim?
You may be able to claim work-related expenses that directly relate to earning your income, were not reimbursed, and are supported by records.
What records should I keep for teacher tax deductions?
Keep receipts, invoices, usage records, rosters, employer policies and travel logs where relevant so each claim can be substantiated.
Can I claim travel from home to work?
Ordinary home-to-work travel is usually private. Travel between work locations during the same workday may be deductible in some circumstances.
Need help with your teacher tax return?
TeachersTax can help review eligible deductions, records and work-related claims before lodgement.