Can I claim self-education expenses for a self-initiated project?

 Author: AlliATO(Community Support)Community Support

9 Jan 2023

Hi @dannyw

You can usually claim a deduction for self-education and study, if the self-education or study has a sufficient connection to your current employment activities as an employee, it must maintain or improve the specific skill or knowledge you need to perform your current income earning activities and is likely to result in, an increase in your income from your current activities.

There is some great information and examples on our website under Self-education expenses.

Online communities, videos and forums would not normally fall within the prescribes course of education under sef-education espenses unless they formed part of a curriculum provided by schools, colleges, or universities.

However, you may be able to claim a business deduction to cost of attending a seminars, conferences or training courses to maintain or increase the knowledge, capabilities or skills you need to earn your income under Other operating expenses, this can include subscription cost for business or professional journals, information services, newspapers and magazines including expenses relating to education and technical or professional qualifications.