how many kilometres can i claim without a logbook

In Australia, you can claim up to 5,000 km per car, per financial year without a logbook using the cents-per-kilometre method. You still need a reasonable basis for your estimate—note trip dates, distances and business purpose (no, the Bunnings snag run doesn’t count unless it’s for work). The rate is set by the ATO and changes annually; multiply your business kilometres (capped at 5,000) by the current cents-per-kilometre rate. If you’re clocking more than that, you’ll need a logbook to use the logbook method, which can allow a higher claim but demands more record-keeping.

Keep evidence tidy, be consistent, and if your situation’s quirky, have a chat with a tax professional.