Tax Tips for Brickies
Tax Tips for Bricklayers – 2025
What Can Bricklayers Claim on Tax?
As a bricklayer, you can claim a heap of work-related expenses. This covers tools and equipment like trowels, levels, cement mixers, and repairs or replacements. You can also claim uniforms and protective gear—steel-capped boots, hi-vis, hats, gloves, and sunscreen. If you use your ute or van for work, claim the running costs (logbook method gets you the best result). Work-related travel between sites, the work portion of your mobile phone and internet, union fees, licences, white cards, and any training or safety courses are all fair game too.
Instant Asset Write-Off for Bricklayers
The instant asset write-off lets you claim the full cost of tools, equipment, or even a new work vehicle (up to the ATO’s threshold) in the year you buy it. This is a big win for small businesses and sole traders, as you get the tax benefit straight away instead of spreading it out over years. Always check the current year’s threshold before you buy.
GST and BAS Tips for Bricklayers
If you’re running your own show and registered for GST, you can claim GST credits on business purchases and need to lodge your BAS (Business Activity Statement) on time. Make sure you include all your income and keep those GST receipts. Staying on top of your BAS means no nasty surprises from the ATO.
Superannuation and Bricklayers
If you’re a sole trader, super isn’t compulsory, but it’s a smart move for your future—and you might get a tax deduction for it. If you employ others or pay contractors mainly for their labour, you must pay them super. The ATO is strict on this, so don’t let it slide.
Contractor vs Employee
If you hire other bricklayers, you need to know if they’re employees or contractors. Employees get super, PAYG withholding, and leave entitlements. Contractors invoice you and sort their own tax. The rules are strict, and getting it wrong can mean big penalties from the ATO.
Home Office
If you do quoting, invoicing, or admin from home, you can claim a portion of your home office expenses. This includes internet, phone, and even a bit of your electricity. Just make sure you only claim the work-related part.
Depreciation
If you buy bigger items (like a cement mixer or trailer) that don’t qualify for instant write-off, you can still claim a portion each year as depreciation. It’s not as quick as the instant write-off, but it all adds up over time.
Record Keeping for Bricklaying Businesses
Good records mean bigger claims and less stress if the ATO comes knocking. Keep every receipt—tools, fuel, repairs, even the small stuff. If you’re claiming vehicle expenses, a logbook is gold. There are apps that make this easy, or just use a notebook.
Avoiding ATO Red Flags
Bricklayers are on the ATO’s radar for cash jobs and unreported income. Declare every dollar you earn—don’t risk an audit or fines. The ATO uses data matching, so it’s not worth trying to fly under the radar. If you hire other bricklayers, make sure you know if they’re employees or contractors. Getting this wrong can mean big penalties.
Professional Tax Advice for Bricklayers
Tax rules change all the time, and tradies have a few unique rules. A good tax agent who knows the building game can help you claim everything you’re entitled to and keep you out of trouble. Don’t be afraid to ask for help—it could save you money and headaches.
Summary
Getting your tax sorted as a bricklayer doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right tips and a bit of record-keeping, you can claim what you’re entitled to and avoid any nasty surprises. Take advantage of the deductions, keep your receipts, and don’t be shy about getting professional advice—your wallet will thank you.
Disclaimer
This is general information only and doesn’t take your personal situation into account. For advice tailored to your needs, have a yarn with a registered tax agent or accountant. Tax rules can change, so always check the latest from the ATO.
Are you an independent brickie contractor, eliminate the paperwork, then you need the cashbook designed for businesses like yours.
Are you a bricklaying contractor business - find out more
Start your Tax return now with Gotax
What can tradies claim on their tax return?
