Usually not claimable

Can I claim childcare costs on tax?

Childcare costs are generally private and not deductible.

General guidance for Australian tax deductions only, not personal tax advice.

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When childcare costs may be claimable

Alternative government support may apply outside deduction rules.

When it is usually not claimable

A work-related need does not usually make childcare deductible.

Records to keep

Not applicable for a standard deduction claim

Quick answer

Usually not claimable. Whether you can claim childcare costs usually comes down to work-related use, whether you paid for it yourself, whether any private portion is excluded, and whether you can support the claim with records.

Verify with current ATO guidance

ATO: Occupation and industry specific guides ATO: Records you need to keep ATO: Work-related deductions

Deductly guide last reviewed: 2026-04-16

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