📋 About TradieCalc.au

Why This Site Exists

TradieCalc.au was built because most tax resources in Australia are either too generic (one-size-fits-none), too expensive (accountants charging $300+ for basic advice), or written in impenetrable tax-speak that assumes you have a commerce degree.

This site is for tradespeople — electricians, plumbers, carpenters, roofers, painters, welders, mechanics, landscapers, and every other hands-on professional who wants to keep more of what they earn. We explain tax in plain English, with real numbers that apply to your trade.

Everything here is free. No sign-ups, no paywalls, no "upgrade to premium" nonsense. Just a calculator, detailed guides, and honest answers to the questions tradies actually ask.

PAYG / ABN Tab System

Tax is fundamentally different depending on whether you're a PAYG employee (working for wages, tax withheld by your employer) or an ABN contractor (running your own business, invoicing clients, managing your own tax and super).

The TradieCalc calculator has a built-in tab switcher that toggles between these two modes. In PAYG mode, you input your wage and claim work-related deductions. Switch to ABN mode, and extra sections appear for business income, expenses, GST, and super contributions.

Many tradies operate under both arrangements during the year — working wages on some jobs and contracting on others. The calculator handles this by letting you enter both streams.

For Young Tradies and Apprentices

If this is your first tax return as a tradie or apprentice, you probably have questions: Do I need an ABN? Can I claim my tools? What about my work boots? Do I need to keep receipts? The tax system wasn't designed for 18-year-olds starting an apprenticeship, and the ATO doesn't make it easy to find clear answers.

We've written every guide and Q&A answer with first-time filers in mind. No jargon, no assumptions about what you already know. If you're an apprentice wondering whether you can claim your first set of tools, the answer is almost certainly yes — and we'll tell you exactly how.

For Overseas Tradies New to Australia

Australia's tax system is different from most other countries. If you're a tradie who recently moved to Australia from the UK, Ireland, South Africa, New Zealand, or the Philippines, you're navigating unfamiliar rules around TFNs, ABNs, GST, superannuation, and Medicare Levy.

Key differences you'll encounter: no tax-free allowance like the UK, compulsory super contributions (11.5% of your income), a Medicare Levy of 2%, and the $300 instant asset write-off threshold for tools. Our guides cover all of this.

If you're here temporarily, your tax obligations may differ — particularly around the Medicare Levy, the Temporary Residents super departure payment, and your tax residency status. Consult a registered tax agent if you're unsure about your residency.

What You'll Find Here

Spend 30 Minutes Here

Tradies who spend 30 minutes on this site before June 30 typically walk away with a much clearer picture of what they can claim. Here's how to make the most of your time:

1. Use the calculator (5 min) — Enter your income and expected deductions to see your estimated tax saving.
2. Read the guide for your biggest deduction (10 min) — If you spend heavily on tools, read the Tools & PPE guide. If you drive between sites, read the Vehicle & Travel guide.
3. Check the Q&A (5 min) — Search for the specific questions you have. Chances are another tradie has asked it before.
4. Review the record keeping guide (10 min) — Set up your receipt system before the end of the financial year, not after.