What Makeup Artists Can Claim as Tax Deductions in Australia

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What Makeup Artists Can Claim as Tax Deductions in Australia

Introduction
If you’re a makeup artist in Australia—whether freelance, self-employed, or working in a salon—it’s essential to understand what expenses you can legally claim to reduce your tax bill. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows deductions for costs that are directly related to earning income.

At Trinity Accounting Practice, we support creative professionals like you with tailored advice to maximise deductions and stay compliant. Below is your full guide to what you can and can’t claim.

1. Tools of the Trade
You can claim deductions for items used directly in your business:

• Makeup products (e.g. foundation, lipstick, eyeshadow)
• Skin prep items (cleansers, moisturisers, setting sprays)
• Hair tools (if part of your services)
• Brushes, applicators, and sponges
• Towels and sanitation items

If an item costs less than $300, it’s usually fully deductible in the same year. Items over $300 may need to be depreciated.

2. Equipment and Technology
Technology and tools that support your work may be deductible:

• Business-use portion of your mobile phone
• Laptop or tablet used for admin and client bookings
• Lighting (ring lights, softboxes)
• Portable makeup chairs or storage kits
• Cameras used for your portfolio

Only the business-use percentage is deductible if used personally as well.

3. Training and Professional Development
If you complete training to improve existing skills, you may claim:

• Makeup or hairstyling workshops
• Short courses on beauty trends
• Business coaching directly related to your services
• Professional subscriptions to beauty publications

Training must relate to your current role, not a new career path.

4. Travel and Vehicle Expenses
If you travel to clients or events, you may claim:

• Cents-per-kilometre or logbook-based car deductions
• Public transport fares
• Uber or taxi rides to job sites
• Parking and tolls for client appointments
• Overnight accommodation (if work-related)

Daily travel to a permanent salon or studio from home is not claimable.

5. Home Studio Expenses
If you work from home in a dedicated studio or admin area, you may be able to claim a portion of:

• Electricity and internet
• Rent (if you are a tenant)
• Cleaning supplies or services
• Depreciation on mirrors, lighting, or furniture

Maintain floor plans and a log of time spent working in the space.

6. Marketing and Business Development
Costs of promoting your services may be tax-deductible:

• Website domain and hosting
• Paid advertising on Instagram, Facebook, etc.
• Graphic design for flyers, logos, or banners
• Branding photoshoots and portfolio creation
• Business cards or signage

Track all promotional expenses with receipts or digital records.

7. Insurance and Registrations
Makeup artists can claim:

• Public liability or business insurance
• Equipment insurance
• ABN application fees
• Memberships to industry bodies (e.g. AMIA)

These protect your business and maintain professionalism.

8. Accounting and Legal Fees
Professional service fees may be deductible:

• Tax agent or accountant services
• Bookkeeping software (e.g. Xero)
• Legal advice for contracts or disputes

These services must relate directly to your business operations.

9. Uniforms and Protective Clothing
Claimable clothing must be either:

• Embroidered with your business logo
• Protective (e.g. gloves, aprons, masks)

Everyday black shirts or plain clothing worn for style are not deductible.

What You Can’t Claim

• General beauty or grooming items for personal use
• Everyday clothing or shoes, even if worn while working
• Meals, coffee, or snacks during work hours
• Parking fines or speeding tickets
• Costs related to personal use of makeup or training unrelated to your business

How Trinity Accounting Practice Can Help
We support makeup artists across Australia by:

• Setting up bookkeeping in Xero
• Identifying every allowable deduction
• Preparing and lodging BAS and tax returns
• Offering strategic tax advice all year round
• Ensuring your ATO compliance

Whether you’re new to freelancing or managing a growing beauty business, we provide practical guidance and hands-on support.

Conclusion
Understanding what you can legally claim as a makeup artist can help you reduce your taxable income and reinvest in your business. With expert help, you’ll gain clarity, compliance, and confidence at tax time.

Need support to maximise your claims this financial year? We’re here to help.

📍 Visit us at 159 Stoney Creek Road Beverly Hills NSW 2209
☎️ Call 02 9543 6804
🌐 www.trinitygroup.com.au
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