Common Deductions for Teachers — WA
Teaching resources and supplies, laptop/iPad, printer ink, home office (lesson planning), professional development courses, union fees, working with children check, excursion costs (self-funded portion), classroom decorations
Average Claim
The typical teacher claims around $1,200 in work-related deductions per year. If your claim is significantly above this, make sure your records are solid — the ATO data-matches your claim against others in your occupation.
Union Fees — WA
In Western Australia, the relevant union is SSTUWA (~$760/yr). Union fees are fully tax deductible.
Registration
State teacher registration board fee — deductible in all states
WA-Specific Claims
TRBWA registration ($100/yr) is deductible. Remote WA teaching positions attract zone tax offsets and may include free housing (which is FBT-exempt).
How to Claim
Report your deductions at Item D1–D5 in your tax return. Use myTax (free) or a tax agent. Keep receipts for 5 years. Items under $300 get an instant deduction. Items over $300 are depreciated over their effective life.
From 2026–27: The new $1,000 standard deduction means you can claim a flat $1,000 without receipts — or itemise if your actual expenses are higher. Details →
Frequently Asked Questions
What can teachers claim on tax in WA?
Common deductions include: Teaching resources and supplies, laptop/iPad, printer ink, home office (lesson planning), professional development courses, union fees, working with c. The average claim is $1,200. Union fees (SSTUWA (~$760/yr)) are fully deductible.
How much do teachers usually claim?
The ATO benchmark for teachers is around $1,200 in work-related deductions. Claims well above this attract ATO scrutiny — keep receipts.