Yes, but the method matters. From 1 July 2022, the ATO's revised fixed-rate method allows 67 cents per hour for home office expenses if you keep a record of hours worked. Alternatively, the actual cost method lets you claim the business portion of specific expenses (internet, electricity, phone) with receipts. You cannot claim mortgage or rent under either method unless you have a dedicated home office that may trigger CGT implications.
What it depends on
The full answer depends on your specific circumstances. Here’s what matters.
Which method you choose
The fixed-rate method (67c/hour from 2022–23 onwards) covers electricity, internet, phone, stationery, and computer consumables — you can't claim these separately if you use this method. The actual cost method lets you claim the business-use percentage of each expense individually with receipts. You can only use one method per financial year.
Your record-keeping
For the fixed-rate method, you need a record of actual hours worked from home for the entire year — a timesheet, roster, diary, or time-tracking app. A four-week representative period is no longer accepted from 2022–23 onwards. For the actual cost method, you need receipts for each expense and a reasonable basis for calculating the business-use percentage.
Whether you have a dedicated workspace
You can claim under either method whether or not you have a dedicated room. But if you DO have a room used exclusively for work, additional deductions may be available — including occupancy expenses (a portion of rent, mortgage interest, council rates, insurance). However, claiming occupancy expenses can affect your main residence CGT exemption if you own the property.
The CGT trap
If you claim occupancy expenses (rent or mortgage interest) for a home office, the ATO may treat that portion of your home as an income-producing asset. When you sell, you could owe Capital Gains Tax on the relevant percentage for the period you claimed. This is a genuine risk that many people don't discover until they sell.
The last 10%
What a qualified professional can add
The answer above covers the general position. Here’s where professional judgement — applied to YOUR specific situation — makes the difference.
- Calculating which method — fixed-rate or actual cost — produces a higher legitimate deduction for your specific circumstances
- Advising on the CGT implications of claiming occupancy expenses before you make a claim you can't easily reverse
- Identifying other work-from-home deductions you may be missing: furniture depreciation, equipment, specific software
- Ensuring your records meet ATO requirements — the most common reason WFH claims are adjusted on audit is inadequate record-keeping
Questions to ask before you engage one
If you decide to engage a professional, these questions help you evaluate whether they’re right for your situation.
Have you calculated whether the fixed-rate or actual cost method produces a better result for me specifically?
If I claim occupancy expenses, what are the CGT implications when I sell my home?
What records do I need to keep throughout the year — and is there a tool or template you recommend?
Are there any deductions I'm entitled to that aren't covered by the fixed-rate method (furniture, equipment, office fit-out)?
How do you handle a mixed-use space — I work from the dining table, not a dedicated office?
General Advice Warning
The information on this page is general in nature and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. It is provided by Global Mutual Funds Pty Ltd (ABN 20 090 555 436, AFSL 222640) and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Consider whether the information is appropriate before acting on it. Read our Financial Services Guide.