Private ruling: Income tax - deductions self-education expenses
Date of advice: 2 April 2020
Published: May 2020
Ruling period: Year ending 30 June 2020 | Year ending 30 June 2021 | Year ending 30 June 2022
Date scheme commenced: 1 July 2019

Ruling: Q1: Are the course fees and associated expenses paid in connection with the self-education course an allowable deduction, to the extent that the course fees are not reimbursed by your employer? | A1: Yes.Your self-education expenses are deductible; as it is accepted the study meets the requirements detailed in Taxation Ruling TR 98/9 and has sufficient connection to your current work activities. Further information about self-education expenses can be found by searching 'QC 31970' on ato.gov.au

Relevant facts and circumstances: You are currently employed on a full-time basis. You have chosen to undertake a self-education course to expand your current experience and skills. You envisage this course will further permit you to move into the next tier of positions within the organisation, particularly senior leadership roles. Your current employer has afforded you support to study this course and apart from any possible reimbursement from your employer, the course will be self-funded.

Relevant legislative provisions: Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 section 8-1