Your 2025 Workwear Cheat Sheet (with Real Answers)

Protective clothing is one of the ATO’s “yeah, alright” deductions—but only if you follow the rules. Whether you’re high-vis by day, steel-cap stompin’ by night, or just trying to keep the grease and danger off your skin, we’ve got your questions covered.

Time to kit up and claim smart.

Q1: What is considered protective clothing for tax deductions in 2025?

Any gear designed to protect you from injury, illness, or environmental nasties: hi-vis, steel-caps, fire-resistant gear, UPF sun-rated clothing… it’s all good.

Q2: Can I claim normal work clothes as protective clothing?

Nope. Jeans, polos, and your favourite Bonds socks don’t make the cut—even if you only wear them for work.

Q3: Are steel-capped boots tax deductible?

You bet. If you need them to keep your toes safe, you can claim the cost to buy, repair, or clean them.

Q4: Can I claim hi-vis clothing?

Yes, if it’s required for your job and helps keep you visible (and alive) on the worksite.

Q5: What about sun protection clothing?

Absolutely. If you’re baking outdoors, UPF-rated gear is deductible.

Q6: Can I claim non-slip shoes?

Yes—nurses, chefs, baristas and spill-prone legends, this one’s for you.

Q7: Are aprons and boiler suits deductible?

Yes, if they’re shielding your civvies from fire, gunk, or grime.

Q8: Can I claim the cost to clean my protective clothing?

Yep! You can even use the ATO’s laundry rates or claim actual expenses.
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Q9: What if my employer reimburses me for protective clothing?

Then it’s a no-go. You can’t double dip.

Q10: Can I claim a deduction for a compulsory uniform?

Yes, if it’s enforced by policy and stands out like a sore thumb (logos, unique colours, etc.).

Q11: Are shoes, socks, and stockings deductible?

Only if they’ve got protective features—like steel toes or non-slip soles. No claim for your Bonds footlet collection.

Q12: Can I claim sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen?

If you’re out in the Aussie sun working hard, yes! Sun protection is deductible if it’s a job requirement.

Q13: What records do I need for my tax return?

Receipts, receipts, and more receipts.
And yes, Deduction Grabber can help you nail that.

Q14: Can I claim for clothing I wear to and from work?

Only if it’s protective and you must wear it. That means no deductions for your pre-dawn activewear ensemble.

Q15: What if I buy protective clothing in bulk?

Claim the work portion—but keep all those receipts.

Q16: Can I claim for protective gear supplied by my employer?

Nope. If your boss gave it to you, it’s on them, not the ATO.

Q17: Are branded uniforms deductible?

Yes, if they’re compulsory and identifiable to your employer.

Q18: Can I claim for repairs to protective clothing?

Absolutely. If it’s falling apart on the job, you can claim the cost to fix it.

Q19: How long do I need to keep my records?

At least five years from when you finalise your tax return.
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Q20: Can I claim protective clothing if I’m self-employed?

Sure can—just make sure the gear matches the job, and that you’re meeting ATO guidelines.

Your PPE Tax Wrap-Up

To sum it up: if it protects you, it’s probably deductible. But if it just looks work-ish, the ATO will say “nice try.” Keep your receipts, use the right method, and don’t claim your favourite flannel.

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