Tax time can feel overwhelming, but knowing what you can claim makes a big difference. As an independent support worker on Mable, you run your own business. This means you may be able to claim deductions for expenses directly related to earning your income.
To keep things simple, we have broken down the main claimable expenses, the rules for claiming them, and the records you must keep.
Please note that the information in this article is general in nature and we recommend you seek your own tax advice.
What expenses can you claim at tax time?
Travel and vehicle expenses
- The rules: In general, you can claim travel that happens directly between different clients. You cannot claim the cost of traveling from your home to your first job of the day. You must use your own vehicle and not receive a reimbursement for the cost. You can choose between the cents per kilometer method or the logbook method.
- Records required: Odometer records, a valid logbook (if using the logbook method), a diary of your trips, and receipts for fuel or vehicle maintenance.
Protective clothing
- The rules: You can generally claim clothing required for safety (like non-slip shoes or aprons). Everyday clothing cannot be claimed.
- Records required: Purchase receipts for clothing.
Phone and internet costs
- The rules: If you use your phone or internet to look for clients, message them on the platform, or manage your bookings, you can usually claim a deduction. However, you can only claim the work-related portion. You must separate your personal use from your work use.
- Records required: Phone and internet bills, plus a usage diary or a clear calculation showing your work usage percentage.
Training and education
- The rules: Training must directly relate to your current role to help maintain or improve your skills. You cannot claim training that is meant to help you start a completely new career path.
- Records required: Course invoices, receipts, proof of completion, and notes showing how the course links to your current work.
Tools, equipment, and PPE
- The rules: Tools and equipment used for work (such as standard support items or safety gear) can generally be claimed if you paid for them yourself. For items under $300, you can claim an immediate deduction. For items over $300, the cost must be depreciated (claimed slowly over time). Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) like masks, sanitiser, and gloves are also fully claimable if used for work.
- Records required: Purchase receipts, a depreciation schedule (for items over $300), and records showing work versus personal use.
Home office expenses
- The rules: If you work from home to perform administrative tasks, send messages, or complete online training, you can claim a portion of your home expenses. You must calculate and claim only the work-related portion of these utilities.
- Records required: A diary of the exact hours you worked from home, utility bills, internet bills, and a statement of the calculation method you used.
Other work expenses
Police Checks and Certifications
- You can usually claim checks required for your current job, such as a Working With Children Check (WWCC).
- Records required: Receipts and proof of the requirement.
Sunscreen and Hats
- Generally claimable only if your support work requires you to work outdoors in the sun.
- Records required: Purchase receipts and an explanation of your outdoor work conditions.
General Expenses
- Any other item that directly relates to earning your income, provided you were not reimbursed for it.
- Records required: Receipts and notes explaining the work purpose.
Managing your taxes effectively is a key part of running your independent business on the Mable platform. By keeping accurate, organised records throughout the financial year, you can maximise your eligible deductions and ensure your tax filing process is smooth and stress-free. Take some time to review your work-related costs and gather your receipts so you are completely prepared when it is time to lodge your return.
This information is general guidance only and should not be considered legal, accounting or tax advice. We recommend you speak with an accountant, tax advisor or your financial advisor about claiming tax back for your specific work-related expenses.
