Pharmacists and pharmacy assistants can claim AHPRA registration and professional memberships, lab coats, scrubs and branded uniforms, dispensing tools and equipment, the work-related share of phone and internet, self-education and conferences, professional journals, income protection premiums paid outside super, and home office running costs. Normal travel between home and your regular pharmacy, everyday clothing, industry social events and gifts to customers are not deductible. Claims must relate to your current role, be paid for personally, and be supported by records.
Pharmacy Professional Employment Snapshot
- Average Weekly Pay: $1,534.10
- Employment Size: 70,875
- Future Growth: Strong
- Skill Level: Bachelor Degree or Higher (Pharmacists)
What Can Pharmacists and Pharmacy Assistants Claim on Tax in 2026?
Here’s a breakdown of common deductions for pharmacists and pharmacy assistants in Australia:
- Motor vehicle expenses when travelling between two workplaces, attending external training, or consulting at multiple locations.
- Phone and internet usage if used for work-related tasks like contacting patients, suppliers, or accessing medical databases.
- Overnight travel costs for attending eligible training, conferences, and seminars — includes airfares, accommodation, meals, and incidental costs.
- Self-education courses and upskilling programs that relate directly to your current role (e.g. vaccinations, medication safety, aged care pharmacy).
- Health and medical journals, magazines, and reference materials used to stay current in your field.
- Medical defence insurance and income protection premiums (if not paid via super).
- Work-related uniforms, including lab coats, scrubs, and employer-branded clothing.
- Tools and equipment like blood pressure monitors, dispensing tools, or work-use computers.
- Annual registration fees with AHPRA and other professional membership costs.
- Home office running expenses if you complete admin or consulting tasks from home.
- Professional bags such as handbags, briefcases, or satchels used for carrying work items.
Pharmacist and Pharmacy Assistant Expenses You Cannot Claim
- Travel to and from your regular workplace (home to work and back).
- Costs related to social or entertainment events, including industry dinners or gala nights.
- Everyday clothing, even if purchased for work (e.g. plain black pants or shirts without logos).
- Gifts or free samples given to customers.
How to Maximise Pharmacist Tax Deductions in 2026
At Accountants Direct, we help pharmacy professionals:
- Legally maximise deductions with ATO-compliant records
- Understand work vs. private usage for mixed expenses (like phones and internet)
- Choose the most suitable method for claiming vehicle expenses
- Plan for self-education and professional development in a tax-efficient way
- Make the most of your income protection and insurance deductions
Click here to see Tax Calculator for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Sales Assistants.
Pharmacist and Pharmacy Assistant Tax Deduction FAQs
What can pharmacists claim on tax?
Pharmacists can typically claim work-related costs such as uniforms, self-education, phone/internet, professional memberships, home office expenses, and motor vehicle travel between job sites or for training.
Can I claim expenses for attending a pharmacy seminar?
Yes, if the seminar or course is directly related to your current role and you pay for it yourself, it’s generally deductible — including travel, accommodation, and meals (if overnight).
Are lab coats and scrubs tax deductible?
Yes, as long as they are compulsory or clearly specific to your role (e.g. employer-branded or used for hygiene/safety), you can claim the cost of purchasing and laundering them.
Can I claim a portion of my rent or mortgage if I work from home?
Only the running expenses (like electricity, internet, and office depreciation) are typically deductible — not rent or mortgage unless your home is your principal place of business.
Can pharmacy assistants also claim deductions?
Absolutely. Pharmacy sales assistants can claim similar deductions like uniforms, phone/internet (work portion), vehicle travel between locations, and training courses relevant to their role.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
