Common Deductions for Truck Drivers — NSW
Overnight travel allowance (ATO reasonable amounts), meals on the road (if travelling and no allowance), sunglasses (anti-glare for driving), log book, phone and GPS (work portion), work boots, high-vis, union fees, medical examination (commercial licence), vehicle cleaning (own truck)
Average Claim
The typical truck driver claims around $2,500 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 — NSW
In New South Wales, the relevant union is TWU NSW (~$580/yr). Union fees are fully tax deductible.
Registration
Heavy vehicle licence medical examination — deductible in all states
NSW-Specific Claims
NSW toll costs are significant — if you drive your own truck, tolls are deductible. Sydney traffic adds fuel costs. Heavy vehicle registration is the most expensive in Australia.
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 truck drivers claim on tax in NSW?
Common deductions include: Overnight travel allowance (ATO reasonable amounts), meals on the road (if travelling and no allowance), sunglasses (anti-glare for driving), log book. The average claim is $2,500. Union fees (TWU NSW (~$580/yr)) are fully deductible.
How much do truck drivers usually claim?
The ATO benchmark for truck drivers is around $2,500 in work-related deductions. Claims well above this attract ATO scrutiny — keep receipts.