Doctors and Taxes: The Hidden Deductions You’re Probably Missing
- Jenine L.
- 38 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 28 minutes ago
We understand that being a doctor in Australia means long hours, ongoing education, and the responsibility of patient care. But one thing often overlooked is tax planning. With high incomes and complex work arrangements, many doctors miss out on deductions that could save thousands every year.
Here’s what you should know about the deductions most commonly missed by doctors:
1. Professional Education and Training
Medical professionals must continually upskill, and the ATO recognises that. You can claim:
Specialist training programs
Continuing Medical Education (CME) courses
Medical journals and online subscriptions
Exam fees and licensing renewals
Travel and accommodation for eligible conferences
Tip: Keep receipts, course outlines, and proof of attendance. The ATO may ask for evidence.
2. Tools, Equipment, and Technology
Work tools and technology are deductible if they help you do your job.
Stethoscopes, otoscopes, and diagnostic kits
Laptops, tablets, and phones used for practice admin or telehealth
Depreciation of equipment worth more than $300
Medical bags and protective cases
3. Car and Travel Expenses
The daily commute isn’t deductible, but work-related travel is.
Trips between hospitals, clinics, and practices
Patient home visits (if required in your role)
Travel to eligible conferences or training
Parking and tolls when work-related
Tip: Keep a 12-week logbook to claim actual car expenses, or use the cents-per-kilometre method (up to 5,000km per year).
4. Home Office Expenses
Doctors often write reports, manage admin, or deliver telehealth from home.
Electricity and internet costs (fixed rate of 67c per hour)
Office furniture and ergonomic chairs
Computer and IT equipment
Software subscriptions and stationery
Tip: If your actual costs are higher, you may get a better deduction using the actual cost method.
5. Registrations, Memberships, and Insurance
These are fully deductible:
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) registration
Australian Medical Association (AMA) membership
Specialist college fees
Professional indemnity insurance
6. Protective Clothing and Laundry
Ordinary workwear isn’t deductible, but protective gear is.
Scrubs, lab coats, and protective shoes
Laundry costs for these uniforms
7. Superannuation Contributions
Super can be a powerful tax planning tool for high-income earners.
Concessional contribution cap: $30,000 (FY2025)
Carry-forward unused concessional contributions for up to 5 years if your balance is under $500,000
Tip: Salary-sacrificing into super is one of the simplest ways for doctors to cut tax while building retirement wealth.
Why Doctors Miss Out
Doctors are time-poor and often rely on accountants who don’t specialise in the medical field. That means deductions are overlooked, super strategies underused, and structures not optimised, costing you more than you should be paying.
The Dolman Bateman Difference
At Dolman Bateman, we specialise in helping doctors and medical professionals:
Claim every legitimate deduction
Choose the right structure for tax and protection
Manage BAS, GST, and super contributions
Build wealth strategies tailored for high-income earners
Book a complimentary consultation and make sure you’re not leaving money on the table.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal financial, legal or tax advice. All content relates to the current financial year only. Future changes to tax laws, thresholds or administrative requirements may affect the accuracy or relevance of this information, so you should always confirm that the guidance remains current. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, Dolman Bateman accepts no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this information. You should seek professional advice tailored to your circumstances before making any financial or tax decision.