What Makeup Artists Can Claim as Tax Deductions in Australia

Introduction

If you’re a makeup artist in Australia—whether freelance, self-employed, or working as part of a salon team—it’s crucial to understand what business expenses you can claim at tax time. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows deductions for expenses that are directly related to earning your income. Knowing what you can claim will not only reduce your tax bill but also help you run a more profitable and compliant business.

At Trinity Accounting Practice, we specialise in supporting creative professionals like makeup artists with tailored tax and bookkeeping services. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you can and can’t claim as a professional makeup artist.

1. Tools of the Trade

You can claim a deduction for the cost of items used directly in your business, including:

• Makeup products (foundation, lipstick, brushes, etc.)
• Skin preparation products (cleansers, moisturisers, setting sprays)
• Hair styling tools if part of your services (curlers, straighteners)
• Brushes, sponges, and applicators
• Towels, capes, and other hygiene tools

If these tools cost less than $300 each, you can typically claim the full amount in the year of purchase. If they cost more, they may need to be depreciated over several years.

2. Equipment and Technology

Technology used for business purposes is deductible:

• Mobile phone (business use portion)
• Laptop or tablet used for bookings, marketing, and admin
• Ring lights, mirrors, and studio lighting
• Portable makeup chairs or kits
• Cameras used for portfolio photos

If you use any item for both personal and business use, you can only claim the business-use percentage.

3. Training and Professional Development

To keep your skills sharp and competitive, you may attend courses or workshops. You can claim:

• Makeup training courses
• Hair styling certifications
• Business coaching (specific to your business)
• Subscriptions to professional publications

These must relate directly to maintaining or improving your current professional skills (not a new profession).

4. Travel and Vehicle Expenses

If you travel to clients, events, or photoshoots, you may be eligible to claim:

• Car expenses using the cents-per-kilometre or logbook method
• Public transport fares
• Taxi or rideshare fares
• Parking and tolls
• Accommodation if staying overnight for work

Note: You cannot claim travel between home and a regular workplace unless it’s a temporary assignment.

5. Home Studio Expenses

If you have a dedicated space at home for doing makeup or managing admin, you may claim:

• A percentage of electricity and internet bills
• Rent (if you’re a renter, based on business use portion)
• Cleaning costs for your studio area
• Equipment depreciation for lights, mirrors, etc.

You’ll need to keep a floor plan and log of time spent in the area for accurate calculation.

6. Marketing and Business Development

To promote your services, you can claim:

• Website design and hosting fees
• Social media advertising (Facebook, Instagram, etc.)
• Business cards and flyers
• Photoshoots for portfolio or branding
• Graphic design costs

7. Insurance and Registrations

Being protected is important. You can claim:

• Public liability insurance
• Business insurance for equipment
• ABN registration fees
• Memberships to professional associations (like AMIA)

8. Accounting and Legal Fees

Expenses for running your business professionally are claimable:

• Tax agent and accounting fees
• Bookkeeping software (like Xero)
• Legal advice related to business contracts

9. Uniforms and Protective Clothing

If you wear a branded uniform or protective clothing for hygiene purposes, you can claim:

• Embroidered uniforms with your business name/logo
• Aprons, gloves, and other protective wear

General clothing (e.g. black shirts or stylish wear) that can be worn outside of work is not deductible.

What You Can’t Claim

There are some expenses makeup artists often assume are deductible, but the ATO does not allow:

• Everyday clothing or generic beauty products for personal use
• Meals and entertainment
• Fines or penalties
• Personal grooming not related to a business service

How Trinity Accounting Practice Can Help

We help makeup artists by:✅ Setting up your bookkeeping system using Xero
✅ Ensuring you claim every eligible deduction
✅ Keeping your records ATO-compliant
✅ Preparing and lodging your tax return
✅ Offering year-round tax planning support

Conclusion

Claiming legitimate business expenses as a makeup artist can significantly reduce your taxable income and put more money back into your business. But it’s essential to understand the rules, keep accurate records, and get professional advice.

👉 Trinity Accounting Practice
✅ Accounting Firm in Beverly Hills
☎️ 02 9543 6804
📍 159 Stoney Creek Road Beverly Hills NSW 2209
🌐 www.trinitygroup.com.au
📅 Weekend & after-hours appointments available!
📅 Booking Link: https://calendly.com/ramy-hanna

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