Tax time can be stressful especially when you’re running a business solo. Between bookings, stock, and clients, it’s easy to overlook the things that could actually save you money. The good news? If you’re a freelance or self-employed hairdresser in Australia, you might be able to legally reduce your taxable income through deductions.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the top tax deductions you could be claiming.
1. Home Office Expenses
Do you run your hair business from home? You may be able to claim a portion of your home expenses; like electricity, gas, internet, and phone bills.
The catch? You can only claim the part that directly relates to your business. For example, if you use one room for hair appointments or admin, calculate the percentage of those bills that apply to that space.
2. Education and Training
Upskilling isn’t just great for your craft, it can help at tax time too. If you attend courses, workshops, or seminars that directly relate to your hairdressing work, the expenses may be deductible.
This can include:
- Course fees
- Travel to and from the event
- Accommodation (if required)
Just make sure the training is relevant to your current work not a course for a totally new career path.
3. Tools, Equipment & Protective Clothing
Your scissors, clippers, brushes, and even smocks or aprons could be tax-deductible if they’re essential for your job. If you buy them specifically for work and they aren’t used personally, you can likely claim them.
Tip: Keep detailed records of your purchases, and where possible, separate business and personal expenses.
4. Advertising and Promotion
Trying to attract new clients or build your brand? The cost of promoting your business can be tax-deductible. This includes:
- Printing brochures or business cards
- Paying for online advertising (Google, Facebook, Instagram)
- Website hosting and domain fees
- Canva Pro or scheduling tools for social media
If it helps promote your business, it’s worth checking if it qualifies.
5. Car and Travel Expenses
Are you a mobile hairdresser who visits clients at their homes or events? If so, your vehicle-related costs could be deductible. You might be able to claim:
- Petrol (or electricity for EVs)
- Vehicle depreciation
- Loan interest
- Parking fees for client visits
To claim accurately, keep a logbook or use a mileage tracking app. You’ll need to show which trips were for business.
Quick Reminder
This guide is here to help you understand what’s possible, not to offer personal financial advice. Tax laws can be tricky, and what works for one hairdresser may not work for another.
For the best results, speak with a registered tax agent or accountant. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website also has plenty of tools, calculators, and resources tailored to small business owners and sole traders like you.
Read more here:
As a freelance hairdresser, you work hard for every dollar—so don’t leave money on the table. By understanding your tax deductions and getting solid advice, you’ll be in a stronger position to grow your business and manage your finances confidently.
Start collecting receipts and keeping track of expenses now. It’ll make tax time way less stressful later on.
