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WORDS: Anthony KeanePRODUCER: Anthony Lucas
TAX TIME
The dodgy tax deductions that could cost you
With tax time here and living costs surging, many Australians may be hoping to slip in some dubious deductions in the hope of a higher tax return.
From pet expenses to video games even ammunition, the ATO has seen it all when it comes to outrageous claims. And this year it warns it will be cracking down.
Authorities say they are seeing more people try to claim private household expenses such as food, rent and transport.
Others are double-dipping by claiming working from home expenses twice or other costs reimbursed by employers.
Michael Croker, of Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, advised people to "play it straight or you’ll land yourself in hot water with the ATO".
Tap through to see the bizarre things people have tried to claim...
Sketchy Deductions
Expenses for a pet pug whose owners described it as a business mascot that “welcomed customers and staff”.
6000 rounds of ammunition claimed by a shooting club member for “pest control” purposes.
Source: Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, ATO.
Sketchy Deductions
Helicopter trips between hospitals  claimed by a doctor as work-related travel.
A trip to Disneyland, claimed as “research”by an architect.
Source: Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, ATO.
A child’s piano lessons, claimed as staff training.
Sketchy Deductions
A swimming pool as “emergency water storage”.
High heel shoes claimed as protective equipment by a saleswoman.
Source: Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand, ATO.
Video games and streaming services claimed by a retail assistant who called himself an entertainment consultant.

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