Truck drivers and fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers spend significant time away from home for work, which creates a genuinely different set of deductions compared to a standard office-based role. However, many workers in these industries under-claim simply because they’re unsure what qualifies given the unusual nature of their work patterns.
Meal expenses while away overnight for work. If your work requires you to stay away from home overnight, meal costs can generally be claimed, particularly where supported by a travel allowance from your employer.
Using the reasonable allowance rates. The ATO publishes reasonable allowance amounts each year for meals and incidentals, which can simplify record-keeping, provided your circumstances genuinely align with how these rates are intended to be used.
Accommodation costs. Where not provided or reimbursed by your employer, overnight accommodation required for work is generally deductible.
Truck-related expenses. For owner-drivers, running costs for the vehicle — fuel, maintenance, registration, and insurance — are deductible, generally calculated based on the business-use proportion.
Log book and compliance costs. Costs associated with maintaining compliance records required for your role can be claimed.
Protective and safety equipment. Steel-capped boots, high-visibility clothing, and other required safety gear are generally deductible.
Communication equipment. Where required for work — such as UHF radios or specific communication devices — related costs may be claimable.
Travel to and from the site. Depending on the specific arrangement with your employer, some travel to and from a FIFO work site may be deductible, though this varies significantly based on individual circumstances and employer arrangements.
Specific licences and certifications. Certifications required for FIFO roles, such as specific safety inductions or site-access training, are generally deductible.
Protective clothing and equipment. Required PPE not provided by the employer is typically claimable.
** A note on FIFO travel:** Whether standard travel to a FIFO site is deductible depends heavily on the specific facts of your employment arrangement — this is one of the more commonly misunderstood areas and genuinely worth confirming with a tax agent familiar with FIFO work patterns.
Licence renewals and upgrades. Costs to maintain or upgrade a required driving or work licence for your role are generally deductible.
Industry-specific training. Courses directly related to maintaining or improving your skills in your current role are typically claimable.
Not keeping records that match allowance claims. If claiming based on the ATO’s reasonable allowance rates, your circumstances still need to genuinely align with how those rates are meant to apply.
Assuming all travel to work is deductible. Standard commuting rules still generally apply, and FIFO-specific travel arrangements need careful individual assessment.
Underestimating vehicle deductions. Owner-drivers in particular often underclaim vehicle-related costs without a properly maintained logbook.
EBATS helps truck drivers and FIFO workers navigate the specific, often complex deductions available for travel-heavy roles.
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