Bizarre items Aussies try to claim in tax return as ATO deduction rules revealed

From breast implants to sleep apnoea machines, each tax time brings with it bold attempts to get money back on weird and wacky items.

With tax time fast approaching, Australians are on the lookout for any way to increase their likelihood of getting the biggest return.

However, this often leads to bizarre items showing up as deductible expenses.

H&R Block’s director of tax communications Mark Chapman says he has seen his fair share of unusual attempts to get more money back from the Australian Tax office.

Despite many Australians giving it a go, cosmetic surgeries such as breast enlargements are definitely off the list of tax deductible items according to Mr Chapman.

“We’ve had a few adult entertainers who tried to claim for the cost with the argument that breast enhancements are effectively a tool of the trade,” he said.

Most Australians can expect a return between $600 and $1000 according to H&R Block. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Nicholas Eagar

“Having said that, we’ve not allowed that, the ATO doesn’t allow that.”

However, there are a number of other unusual items that can be claimed for adult entertainers.

“If you work in the adult industry, you could be looking at a deduction for sex toys, lube and all manner of ‘accessories’,” Mr Chapman said.

“You can only claim the business use element of course; if you use them in your personal activities, forget the tax deduction.”

Other Australians have tried and failed to claim regular medical devices on their tax, regardless of how it affects their specific occupation.

“Ordinary taxpayers who’ve got ordinary jobs attempt to claim various medical devices like sleep apnoea machines, pacemakers, wheelchairs, artificial limbs, on the basis that they are essential for them to do their chosen occupation,” he said.

“That isn’t deductible.”

A number of unusual items can be claimed on your tax refund if they relate to your employment according to Mr Chapman.

There have even been attempts to claim the family dog on tax, due to deductions being made available for guard and farm dogs.

“[Work dogs] are regarded as a capital asset of the business and you can claim an immediate deduction for the whole cost using the very generous temporary full expensing tax break,” Mr Chapman said.

“Obviously, it needs to be a dog suitable for the purpose; a poodle is unlikely to cut it.”

Each year, Australians also attempt to claim items of clothing that don’t fall in the deductible category, including regular clothing that could also be worn outside of work, even if it was only purchased to wear in the workplace.

However, if you are required to wear a uniform or protective items such as a smock, gloves, face mask, steel-toed boots or sun protection, these can be claimed as deductions.

Further, the costs of repairing and cleaning these work items can also be claimed.

Grooming costs such as hairdressing services and buying make-up also can’t be claimed, even if a job requires an individual to be well presented.