Private Tutor / Music Teacher

Tax deductions for independent tutors and teachers in Australia.

Allowable Expenses

• Teaching Materials — Books, sheet music, and online resources.
• Travel — Traveling to students' homes.
• Home Office — A portion of utilities if you teach from home.
• Instruments & Tech — Musical instruments or computers (depreciate if over $300).

Tax Tips

• Claim for the business use of your internet for online tutoring.
• Keep a log of your travel between student locations.
• Register for GST if your income exceeds $75,000.
• Most personal tutoring services to individuals are GST-free under Australian law — however, if you run tutoring programs or courses with institutional characteristics, check the GST status with your tax agent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim my piano tuning?

Yes, if the piano is used for your teaching business.

Is my Zoom subscription deductible?

Yes, if used for online lessons.

Is the cost of a Working with Children Check deductible?

Yes. The cost of obtaining and renewing a Working with Children Check (or equivalent state/territory card) is deductible — it is a compulsory requirement for tutors and teachers who work with minors. Keep the receipt as evidence.

Can I claim travel from my home to a student's house?

Yes. Travel from your home to a student's home — and between student locations — is deductible as work travel. Travel from home to your first student is allowed (unlike regular employees), because private tutors use their home as a base of operations. Use the cents-per-kilometre method (85c/km, up to 5,000 km) or the logbook method.