Graphic Designer

Deduct your Creative Cloud and hardware as an Aussie designer.

Allowable Expenses

• Software Subscriptions — Adobe Creative Cloud, Figma, and font licenses.
• Hardware — MacBooks, iMacs, and drawing tablets (depreciate if over $300).
• Home Office — Internet, electricity, and a portion of your rent/mortgage interest if you have a dedicated office.
• Marketing — Portfolio hosting (Behance, Dribbble) and website costs.

Tax Tips

• The 'fixed rate' method for home office can be simpler for utility claims.
• Asset write-off rules change, so check current thresholds for your computer.
• Freelance designers must manage their own superannuation contributions.
• Pay for all creative subscriptions (Adobe CC, Figma, Canva, Envato) from your dedicated business bank account — this makes deduction identification straightforward at tax time without reviewing personal statements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim my Adobe subscription?

Yes, software used for work is fully deductible.

Is my computer depreciable?

Yes, typically over 3-4 years if it costs more than $300.

Are international client payments (in USD or EUR) assessable income in Australia?

Yes. Income from international clients must be converted to Australian dollars using the exchange rate on the date you received the payment. The ATO accepts the RBA exchange rate as a reliable source. Declare the AUD equivalent in your tax return.

Can I deduct the cost of font licences and design asset subscriptions?

Yes. Font licenses, stock image subscriptions (Adobe Stock, Envato, Shutterstock), and design asset libraries used in client work are fully deductible professional tool costs.