Speech Pathologist

Maximize your deductions as a self-employed speech pathologist.

Allowable Expenses

• Assessment Tools — Standardised tests and speech therapy software.
• Learning Materials — Flashcards, books, and educational games.
• Registration — Speech Pathology Australia membership fees.
• Insurance — Professional indemnity insurance for clinicians.

Tax Tips

• Subscriptions to speech therapy resources are deductible.
• Claim the cost of your laptop if used for client reports.
• Home office expenses apply if you prepare for sessions at home.
• If you deliver telepractice sessions, record your home office hours carefully — the ATO's 67c/hr fixed rate covers electricity, phone, and internet for hours worked from home, with no complex apportionment needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim for educational games?

Yes, if they are used as tools in your therapy sessions.

Are SPA membership fees deductible?

Yes, they are professional association fees.

Are NDIS support services provided by speech pathologists GST-free?

Yes. Therapeutic supports for NDIS participants — including speech pathology — are generally GST-free. You don't charge GST on these services, and you cannot reclaim GST credits on related costs. If you also see private fee-paying clients, their services may be treated differently — seek advice if you have a mixed practice.

Can I claim for a telehealth platform subscription?

Yes. Telehealth software (Zoom for Healthcare, Coviu, HealthKit) used for delivering therapy sessions to clients is a fully deductible business tool. The proportion of internet costs attributable to telehealth sessions is also claimable.