Can I claim without receipts?

Up to $300 of work expenses in total, yes. Beyond that you need evidence (receipts, invoices, or a logbook for car use).

Can I claim my flights or visa fees?

No. Travel to Australia and visa application costs are private, not work-related, so they aren't deductible.

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Deductions

What can a backpacker claim on tax in Australia?

Updated 2026-06-16

A deduction is a work-related cost you're allowed to subtract from your income before tax is worked out. Three rules decide if something qualifies: you paid for it yourself and weren't reimbursed, it directly relates to earning your income, and you can show it happened. Get those right and every claim is money back.

The $300 rule: you can claim up to $300 of work expenses in total without keeping receipts. Above $300, you need written evidence for the whole amount, not just the part over $300.

Commonly claimable for backpacker jobs

Protective gear and compulsory uniforms: steel-cap boots, hi-vis, gloves, sun protection for outdoor work, aprons.
Laundry of that work clothing ($1/load of work-only clothes, $0.50 if mixed).
Tools and equipment you bought for the job.
Phone and internet, the work-use percentage only.
Car use between jobs or sites (not home-to-work), at 88c/km up to 5,000 km.
Training or licences required for the work (e.g. RSA, white card, forklift ticket).
Sunscreen, sunglasses and hats for people working outdoors all day.

What you can't claim

Getting from home to your regular workplace.
Plain clothes, even if you only wear them at work.
Anything your employer paid back to you.
Fines, everyday meals, or your visa application costs.

A quick habit beats a year-end scramble: photograph each receipt the day you get it. The bank-statement import in Hello June finds many of these automatically so you don't have to remember them.

FAQ

Can I claim without receipts?: Up to $300 of work expenses in total, yes. Beyond that you need evidence (receipts, invoices, or a logbook for car use).
Can I claim my flights or visa fees?: No. Travel to Australia and visa application costs are private, not work-related, so they aren't deductible.

Let June do the maths for you

Import your payslips and bank statement: June finds your deductions, estimates your refund, and tells you what goes in which myTax box. Free on screen.

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General information to help you find your way, not personalised tax advice. For your exact situation, refer to the ATO (ato.gov.au) or a registered tax agent.