Actors, Dancers & Entertainers — Don’t Miss These Tax Deductions

If you’re performing on stage, on screen, or online, the ATO gives you more deductions than you probably realise — if you know what you’re doing.

Here’s what most performers miss:

• Audition & agency fees – yes, you can claim them.
• Acting, dance, voice & movement coaching – claimable when maintaining or improving skills.
• Costumes & props – only if they’re not suitable for private wear (your black jeans don’t count).
• Performance-specific hair & makeup – claimable when required for the role.
• Rehearsal gear, instruments & equipment – depreciated if over $300.
• Filming, editing, choreography & production software.
• Headshots, showreels, website, social media promotion – if used to get paid work.
• Travel to auditions, rehearsals & gigs (not home → regular workplace).‘
• Union fees (MEAA), portfolio costs & online casting platforms.

And here’s what the ATO loves catching performers on:

• Everyday clothing (even if stylish).
• General gym or beauty expenses “because the industry expects it.”
• Travel that’s actually commuting.
• Claiming 100% of cameras, phones or internet.
• Mixing personal influencer spend with professional promotion.

Performing is a profession. Treat your deductions professionally too — or you leave money on the table. If you want help getting your tax right this year, Success Tax Professionals can sort it fast and properly.