With the end of the financial year approaching, a lot of WA workers are asking the same question: can I actually claim my training as a tax deduction?
The short answer is: often, yes — but there are specific rules. This guide breaks down what the ATO allows, what doesn’t qualify, and how to make the most of EOFY if you’re due for a licence renewal or skills upgrade.
What Is a Self-Education Expense?
The ATO classifies training and study costs as “self-education expenses.” Under Australian tax law, you can generally claim a deduction for these expenses if the education directly relates to your current work — not a job you’re hoping to get in the future.
This applies to courses, short programs, workshops, and licence training — including the kind of accredited safety training that many WA tradespeople and site workers do every few years.
When Can You Claim Training as a Tax Deduction?
Your training expenses are deductible if they meet at least one of the following ATO criteria:
1. The training maintains or improves skills in your current role If you’re a rigger refreshing your Rigging licence, a forklift operator renewing your High-Risk Work Licence, or a site supervisor completing a Working at Heights course — that directly relates to your current job. It qualifies.
2. The training is likely to increase your income from your current employment Gaining an additional licence — for example, adding Dogging to your existing skill set — can lead to higher pay grades or broader employment opportunities in your current trade. The ATO considers this deductible.
3. You’re attending a course directly related to your work Attending a safety seminar, completing a confined space entry course, or doing a first aid recertification for your current role all fall into this category.
Deductible expenses typically include tuition fees, course materials, and travel to the training location.
What You Cannot Claim
There are clear boundaries. You cannot claim training costs if:
- The course is designed to get you into a new career (e.g., studying to become a nurse when you’re currently working in retail)
- The training is required as a baseline requirement just to get your job in the first place
- Your employer paid for the training directly
- It’s general education with no direct link to your current role
The key test is always: does this relate to the work I am doing right now?
Which SAFERIGHT Courses Would Typically Qualify?
For workers currently employed in construction, mining, logistics, or any trade environment in WA, the following types of training are very likely to meet ATO self-education criteria:
High-Risk Work Licences: Dogging, Rigging, Forklift Operation, Crane Operation, EWP (Elevated Work Platform), Scaffolding & More.
Earthmoving & Plant Operation: Excavator, Dump Truck, Front End Loader, Skid Steer, Grader, Telehandler, Watercart, Tip Truck & More.
Construction & Safety: First Aid & CPR, Fire Safety, Confined Space Entry, Gas Test Atmosphere, Working Safely at Heights (WSAH) & More.
Training & Assessment: Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122) — for workers currently delivering training or workplace assessments
Work Health Safety: Statutory Supervisor (S26) course — for workers who are trying to upskill into a supervisory role.
VOC & Refreshers: Already hold a ticket and just need a refresher or verify that you are still competent? SAFERIGHT offers Verification of Competency (VOC) and Refreshers too.
The EOFY Deadline You Need to Know
To claim training expenses in the 2025–26 financial year, your course must be paid and enrolled before 30 June 2026. If you’ve been putting off renewing a licence or adding a new ticket, the EOFY period is the smartest time to act.
SAFERIGHT runs accredited courses throughout May and June across Western Australia. Spots fill quickly in the lead-up to EOFY.
A Note on Getting Professional Advice
The information in this post is based on current ATO guidelines for self-education expenses. Tax situations vary — if you’re unsure whether your specific training qualifies, speak with a registered tax agent or check the ATO’s guidance on self-education expenses.
Ready to Book Before June 30?
Browse SAFERIGHT’s May and June course schedule and lock in your spot before the financial year closes.
