Every occupational health and safety authority in the country recognises sun exposure is a major risk to the health and safety of people who work outdoors. We know that damage to the skin from the sun is cumulative and it's this damage that can lead to skin cancer. Ironically, while the Tax Office is fighting the case, it's also funding it under a special program designed to test Australia's tax law in court. If it's successful, the case could have implications for a wide range of outdoor workers. But certainly, if a wide range of occupations are eligible as a result of the decision, well then, you know, it could be anywhere between 300,000-500,000 taxpayers that are eligible for these deductions.
Outdoor workers believe that's a small price to pay for their ongoing health and safety.
Well, I'd like to see the Taxation Department recognise that it's an essential part of our protective clothing and equipment and give us the breaks tax-wise.