Private ruling: Deductibility of self-education expenses
Date of advice: 30 October 2019
Published: February 2020
Ruling period: Year ended 30 June 2018 | Year ended 30 June 2019
Date scheme commenced: 1 July 2017

Ruling: Q1: Are your self-education expenses deductible? | A1: Yes. Your self-education expenses are deductible, as it is accepted the study meets the requirements detailed in Taxation Ruling TR 98/9. Further information about self education expenses can be found by searching 'QC 31970' on ato.gov.au

Relevant facts and circumstances: This ruling is based on the facts stated in the description of the scheme that is set out below. If your circumstances are materially different from these facts, this ruling has no effect and you cannot rely on it. The fact sheet has more information about relying on your private ruling. You are currently employed. In order to enhance your knowledge and skills in executing your daily tasks you undertook a Graduate Certificate. Part of the prerequisite to undertake the Graduate Certificate was to hold a Bachelor degree. The qualification once completed is seen by your employer as a relevant qualification in addition to your base qualification. Upon completion of the qualification your employer has increased your income to include a "Qualification Allowance" in recognition of the further skills attained to improve your scope of experience/practice. XXXX University has confirmed that the course was not a Commonwealth Subsidised Placement but was a Full Fee paying course. The information provided demonstrates that the primary purpose of the training was to fulfil your self education requirements to support you in your career development with your current employer by further developing skills in a sub specialisation of techniques.

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