Tax deductions for childcare & early educators
As a childcare worker or early educator you can generally claim first-aid training, required checks, resources you buy for the room, and work-related self-education.
Early-childhood work quietly involves a lot of self-funded resources and compliance costs — most of it claimable with records. Here’s what usually counts.
The three rules for any claim
- You paid for it yourself and weren’t reimbursed.
- It directly relates to earning your income.
- You have a record — a receipt, invoice or bank statement.
What you can usually claim
First aid and required checks
First-aid and CPR training, and work-required checks you pay for yourself, such as a Working with Children Check tied to your role.
Room resources and materials
Books, craft supplies, toys and teaching materials you buy for the children out of your own pocket and aren’t reimbursed for.
Self-education and memberships
Early-childhood courses and professional development that build on your current role, plus relevant association fees.
General information, not personal tax advice. What you can claim depends on your circumstances — check with the ATO or a registered tax agent, and keep records for every claim.
Keep in mind
- Everyday clothing worn to work.
- The commute to your centre.
- Resources the centre provides or reimburses.
Take it further
Childcare & early educators — common questions
Can I claim a Working with Children Check?
A check required for your current role that you pay for yourself is generally deductible; check the treatment of your specific check with the ATO or a tax agent. This is general information, not personal tax advice — what you can claim depends on your circumstances, so check with the ATO or a registered tax agent, and keep records to back up every claim.
Can I claim things I buy for the kids?
Resources and materials you buy for the room yourself and aren’t reimbursed for are generally claimable — keep the receipts. This is general information, not personal tax advice — what you can claim depends on your circumstances, so check with the ATO or a registered tax agent, and keep records to back up every claim.
Deductions for other occupations
See all occupations.
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