Education Tax Refund
- Arnold Shields
- Aug 31, 2009
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 24
Education Tax Refund (ETR): What You Need to Know
Helping Families Cover the Cost of Schooling
From 1 July 2009, eligible families, carers, guardians and independent students have been able to claim the Education Tax Refund (ETR) for education-related expenses incurred from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009.
This refundable tax offset lets you claim back 50% of eligible expenses on a range of items needed for your child’s education, such as laptops, software, textbooks and stationery.
Who Can Claim the Education Tax Refund?
You may be eligible to claim the ETR if:
Your child was enrolled in primary or secondary school, and
You incurred eligible education expenses during the relevant financial year, and
You received Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A for the child, or
You were prevented from receiving FTB Part A because your child received certain government payments, such as:
Youth Allowance
Disability Support Pension
ABSTUDY Living Allowance
Veterans’ Children Education Scheme
Student Financial Supplement Scheme
Education and training payments under s258 of the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004
Independent secondary school students (e.g. those attending TAFE) may also qualify.
How Much Can You Claim?
Primary School Students: Claim 50% of eligible expenses up to $750 (refund of up to $375)
Secondary School Students: Claim 50% of eligible expenses up to $1,500 (refund of up to $750)
Have multiple children? You can combine their limits to maximise your claim.If your total expenses go over the limit, the excess can carry forward to the next year (if still eligible).
What Can You Claim?
Eligible education expenses include:
Laptop and desktop computers
Educational computer software
Internet connections at home
Computer accessories (e.g. USBs, printers)
Repairs to computers
Disability aids to support computer use
School textbooks and learning guides
Stationery
Prescribed trade tools for approved secondary trade courses
What Can’t You Claim?
Expenses that don’t qualify for the ETR include:
School fees and uniforms
Excursions and camps
Tutoring or coaching
Musical instruments
Sporting equipment
Subject levies (e.g. art supplies)
School building or library levies
School photos
Donations or fundraising
Tuck shop purchases
Membership or transport fees
Computer games or consoles
Keep your receipts, you may be asked to provide proof of purchase.
Need Help?
While the ETR applied to a specific timeframe, navigating education-related tax offsets can still be complex. If you're unsure about your eligibility or want help preparing your claim, our team at Dolman Bateman can guide you.
📞 Get in touch today for advice tailored to your circumstances.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal financial, legal or tax advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this content at the time of publication, tax laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances vary. Dolman Bateman accepts no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage incurred as a result of acting on or relying upon any of the information contained herein. You should seek professional advice tailored to your specific situation before making any financial or tax decision.
