How Tax Deductions Work for Massage Therapists
Massage therapists can claim massage tables and treatment equipment, compulsory branded uniforms, union fees, licences and registrations, self-education courses, professional books and magazines, the work-related share of phone and internet, overtime meals paid under an industrial award, and home office running expenses. Normal travel between home and a single regular clinic, everyday clothing, and equipment supplied by your employer are not deductible. Each expense must be work-related, paid for personally, not reimbursed, and supported by records.
To claim an expense, it generally must be directly connected to earning your income, paid by you without reimbursement and supported by appropriate records.
This 2026 guide explains the main massage therapist tax deductions available in Australia, including expenses for equipment, supplies, professional development and running a massage therapy business.
Your deductions are below.
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Massage Therapist Employment Overview
- Average weekly pay: $1,092.50
- Employment size: 71,600
- Future growth: Strong
- Skill level: Associated Degree or Diploma
Typical tax deductions include:
- Motor vehicle travel to and from work if having either shifting workplaces (working at more than one site each day before returning home), or transporting bulky equipment when visiting clients.
- Motor vehicle travel visiting clients, attending different workplaces, for training, or to competitions (where the prizes won would be part of income, or where coaching staff).
- Phone and internet – work %.
- Computers, tools and equipment – includes massage equipment.
- Overnight travel expenses attending conferences, seminars, training courses, and industry promotions – includes airfares, accommodation, meals, and incidentals.
- Compulsory work uniform branded with the employers logo.
- Self-education courses.
- Union fees, licences, registrations and subscriptions.
- Overtime meals – if paid a meal allowance under an industrial award.
- Magazines and books related to massaging, sales, customer service, and management.
- Home office running expenses.
Professional memberships.
Non-deductible expenses:
- Grooming including hairdressing, cosmetics, hair and skin care products.
- Membership joining fees.
Tax Strategies we can assist you with.
- Self-education expenses
- Computers, tools, equipment and other assets
- Compulsory work uniform
- Union fees, licences, registrations and subscriptions
- Phone and internet
- Motor vehicle expenses: cents per km method
- Home office running expenses
- Overnight travel expenses
Click here to see Tax Calculator for Massage Therapists.
Massage Therapist Tax Deduction FAQs
What can massage therapists claim on tax in 2026?
Massage therapists may be able to claim eligible treatment equipment, massage oils, towels, professional insurance, work-related travel, training and the work-related portion of phone and home-office expenses.
Can massage therapists claim massage oils and treatment products?
Massage oils, lotions, creams and other consumables may be deductible when they are purchased for use when treating paying clients. Any private use must be excluded.
Can massage therapists claim towels and laundry expenses?
Towels, sheets and treatment linen used to provide massage services may be deductible. Cleaning costs may also be claimable where they relate directly to income-producing linen or eligible work clothing.
Can mobile massage therapists claim car expenses?
Travel between clients and workplaces may be deductible when undertaken while performing work. Ordinary home-to-work travel is generally private, although limited exceptions may apply.
Can massage therapists claim their treatment table?
A massage table and other treatment equipment may be deductible to the extent they are used to earn income. Depending on the cost and employment arrangement, the deduction may need to be claimed over time.
Last updated: 14 July 2026
