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Office Workers and Public Servants — tax deductions you can claim

For administrative, clerical, and government employees. Deductions are modest compared to trades or healthcare, with home office running costs the main claim.

Help us make this tool better — are you a tax agent or accountant? Review or test this calculator and get your agency listed here.

What you can claim

  • Home office running costs

    Running costs for working from home.

    70c/hour fixed rate
  • Stationery and computer consumables

    If using the actual-cost method rather than the fixed rate.

  • Professional development

    Courses relevant to your current role.

  • Union fees

    Membership fees for your workplace union.

  • Work-related phone/internet

    Work-related portion of phone and internet use.

  • Small equipment

    Calculator, keyboard, and similar items under $300.

Commonly missed deductions

People in this occupation often forget to claim these — check they apply to you.

  • Diaries/planners purchased personally
  • Second-screen or ergonomic equipment for a genuine home workspace
  • Parking costs for work-required travel to a different office/site (not your regular workplace)
  • Professional membership/subscription fees for role-specific bodies (HR, finance, project management institutes)

What you can't claim

  • Coffee, tea, and other general household items even if consumed at your desk

  • Normal business attire (suits, ties, blouses) — even when a 'professional dress' policy applies

  • Grooming/haircuts

  • Home-to-work travel

Records the ATO expects

  • DiaryWorking-from-home hours diary

  • ReceiptReceipts for equipment/stationery

  • InvoiceMembership invoices

General information only, not tax advice — content last reviewed 01/07/2026 against ATO guidance for FY2025-26. Whether a specific expense is deductible depends on your individual circumstances; confirm with a registered tax agent or the ATO before lodging.

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