can you claim car on tax

Yes, you can claim car expenses on your tax return in Australia, but it’s not a free-for-all joyride. The claim depends on how much you use your car for work and the method you choose: the cents per kilometre method or the logbook method. Cents per kilometre lets you claim up to 5,000 business kilometres at a flat rate (check the ATO for the current rate, usually around 72 cents). The logbook method requires a detailed logbook for 12 continuous weeks to nail down your business-use percentage, covering fuel, maintenance, depreciation, and more.

Beware: commuting from home to your usual workplace is a no-go for claims. For more precise info and forms, the ATO website is your best mate. Also, if you’re hunting for a new set of wheels with tax in mind, CarShowroom might have some tempting options.