Key Takeaways
- Generally, home to work travel is not deductible.
- You can only claim it if you are required to transport bulky tools.
- No secure storage must be available at your workplace.
- Bulky tools must be essential for your daily duties.
The Short Answer
Yes, but there are strict criteria. The ATO allows you to claim travel from home to work only if you are transporting "bulky tools or equipment" that you need for your job and your workplace provides no secure storage for them.
What Counts as "Bulky Tools"?
The ATO generally defines "bulky" as items that are too heavy or large to be transported efficiently in an ordinary vehicle or by public transport. This usually includes:
- Ladders and large-scale industrial tools
- A full set of mechanic's tools or a large toolbox
- Large musical instruments (e.g., a double bass or drum kit)
- Specialized surveying or testing equipment
Secure Storage Requirement
To claim this deduction, you must prove that your workplace does not provide a "secure storage area" for your tools. If your employer provides a lockable shed, locker, or storage area, but you choose to bring your tools home anyway for "security" or "personal preference," your travel is no longer tax-deductible.
How Much Can You Claim?
You can use the "Cents per Kilometre" method (up to 5,000km per year) or the "Logbook Method" (to claim actual fuel and running costs) for the travel between your home and work sites. This can be a substantial deduction for tradies who are on the road every day.
The 2026 Audit Ready Tip
Always keep a log of your travel. In your logbook, indicate the specific days you transported the bulky tools. If you use the logbook method, make sure your logbook is kept for 12 consecutive weeks to satisfy ATO audit requirements.
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