For NDIS support worker tax deductions, the ATO says you can claim driving your own car directly between clients’ homes on the same day, but not normal trips between home and work or conventional clothing. Any claim also needs a record to prove it. This guide gives you a plain checklist and points you to the ATO’s own toolkit, which is published as a PDF.
The ATO publishes a community support worker toolkit as a PDF, and it is a useful starting point for a checklist. This table sets out what the ATO’s toolkit and guide say, and what to check yourself.
Apply the ATO’s test to each expense: you paid, you were not reimbursed, it directly relates to earning your income, and you hold a record. This page is general information, so confirm with a registered tax agent.
Many workers ask whether the fee for their NDIS worker screening check is tax deductible. Apply the ATO test above, and confirm with a tax agent.
Checks are valid for up to 5 years, and you can apply to renew up to 90 days before the expiry date. For the full process, see how to become a support worker.
We are always looking for reliable, caring support workers in Sydney and Melbourne. Send us your details, qualifications and availability.
Get in touch →If you work for yourself as a sole trader, these points apply on top of the ATO’s deduction test.
Your status changes your records, super and who handles paperwork.
See support worker skills and qualities and the support worker requirements.
Pay depends on your award classification. The rates below are for the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award and start from the first full pay period on or after 1 December 2026. Check Fair Work’s Pay and Conditions Tool for what applies today (Fair Work pay guide).
What counts as high income depends on your situation, so check the ATO’s current tax rates or ask a registered tax agent. If you are considering a novated lease, raise it with your employer and a tax adviser.
We are always looking for reliable, caring support workers in Sydney and Melbourne. Send us your details, qualifications and availability.
Get in touch →Once your records and classification are sorted, you can focus on the work itself. TQN Care’s NDIS support workers help people across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC), and we value reliable, kind people. To see how the scheme fits together, read how the NDIS works and what support workers do, or start with what a support worker is. Update your support worker resume and get in touch.
What counts as high income depends on your situation, so check the ATO’s current tax rates or ask a registered tax agent. Your award classification, hours and whether you work as an employee or sole trader all affect your income.
You can claim driving your own car directly between clients’ homes on the same day, but not normal trips between home and work or conventional clothing. Any claim needs money you spent, no reimbursement, a direct link to your income and a record.
The same ATO test applies, and you also keep financial records for at least 5 years. You need an ABN, which is free, before registering for GST within 21 days once your GST turnover reaches the ATO’s registration threshold. A registered tax agent can confirm what suits your business.
You must register for GST within 21 days once your business reaches the GST registration threshold on the ATO’s registering for GST page, and you need an ABN before you register. A registered tax agent can explain how GST turnover is worked out for your business.