From maintaining lawns and hedges to constructing landscapes and managing irrigation systems, gardeners and landscapers do much more than just make spaces beautiful—they operate mobile, tools-heavy businesses that come with many tax-deductible expenses.
If you’re a gardener, landscaper, or horticultural maintenance professional, here’s what you need to know about claiming tax deductions in 2025.
Gardener & Landscaper Job Snapshot
Average Weekly Pay: $1,093.65
Employment Size: 110,775
Future Growth: Strong
Skill Level: Certificate II or III
What Can Gardeners and Landscapers Claim on Tax in 2025?
You may be eligible to claim deductions on a range of work-related expenses. Below are common items landscapers and gardeners can deduct on their tax return:
- Travel between job sites or to collect tools, supplies, or materials
- Travel to and from jobs if carrying bulky equipment like lawn mowers or trimmers
- Mobile phone and internet (work-related portion)
- Protective gear such as steel-capped boots, overalls, gloves, wet weather gear, and sun protection clothing
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and skincare used for UV protection
- Branded compulsory uniforms
- Equipment and tools (e.g., hedge trimmers, lawn mowers, leaf blowers, etc.)
- Repairs and maintenance of tools and equipment
- Computer or laptop used for quoting, scheduling, or record-keeping
- Guard dogs used to protect tools at work sites (including food and vet bills where appropriate)
- Union fees, licence renewals, and professional registrations
- Overtime meals (if you receive a meal allowance under an industrial award)
- Self-education courses related to landscaping, horticulture, or machinery use
- Overnight travel expenses (accommodation, meals, incidentals) for work-related trips
- Home office running costs if part of your admin or booking work is done from home
Common Landscaping Expenses That May Not Be Deductible
- Gym memberships or general fitness expenses
- Grooming or personal care (unless proven work-related)
- Travel to a single, regular workplace (if not carrying bulky tools)
- Meals and entertainment during social or industry events
Tax Strategies We Can Help You With
At Accountants Direct, we specialise in helping outdoor professionals such as gardeners and landscapers:
- Identify every legitimate deduction based on your work style
- Maintain ATO-compliant records and logbooks
- Structure tool and vehicle purchases to maximise deductions
- Claim relevant home office and mobile business expenses
- Understand landscaping expenses that are tax deductible
Click here to see Tax Calculator for Gardeners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What can a gardener claim on tax in 2025?
You can claim a wide range of deductions such as tools, equipment repairs, protective clothing, travel between job sites, phone and internet, and sun protection. If you use your home for admin work, you can also claim a portion of home office costs.
Q2: Are landscaping expenses tax deductible in Australia?
Yes, if you run a landscaping business or work as a landscaper, expenses directly related to your work (such as fuel, tools, safety gear, and job-related travel) are usually deductible.
Q3: Can I claim a dog as a tax deduction if it guards my tools?
In some cases, yes. If you use a dog specifically to guard tools and equipment on job sites, the ATO may allow deductions for food, vet costs, and upkeep. Keep strong records and speak to a tax expert.
Q4: What tools can a landscaper claim?
Any tools you use to earn income—such as hedge trimmers, power tools, lawn mowers, or irrigation gear—can be claimed in full or depreciated over time depending on their cost.
