The Aevum Accounting Podcast

The Police Debrief Part 2: Advanced Deductions and Myth-Busting


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Are you a police officer taking tax advice from the lunchroom? It’s time to separate fact from fiction.

In Part 2 of our Police Debrief series, Mia and Leo hit the station to break down the ATO’s latest guidelines for law enforcement. We start with a rapid-fire summary of the golden rules from Episode 10 (covering cars, commutes, and uniforms), and then dive straight into the most highly debated deduction myths in the force.

In this episode, we cover:

  • Fitness & Gym Fees: Why standard beat cops can't claim their gym memberships, but why TRG and specialized dive units can.

  • The Boot & Glasses Traps: Why standard black boots and prescription glasses are rejected by the ATO, and exactly what kind of boots and eyewear you can claim.

  • The Grooming Myth: Why the ATO rejects your haircuts and grooming expenses, even if police regulations mandate short hair.

  • Overtime & Meals: The strict difference between a private lunch on patrol and a fully deductible overtime meal claim.

  • Self-Education Traps: When an advanced course is deductible, and when the ATO considers it a "new job" degree.

  • Tools of the Trade: How to claim upgraded tactical gear, torches, and duty belts (and how the $300 depreciation rule works).

  • The Phone Usage Catch: Why checking your shifts or roster on your phone does not count as a deductible work expense.

  • Forgotten Union Fees: How to amend your past tax returns to claim back years of missed Police Union and Association fees.

Stop guessing what you can claim and make sure you are getting every dollar you are legally entitled to.

Connect with Aevum Accounting:Need to amend a past return or organize this year's deductions? Visit aevumaccounting.com.au to book an appointment with the team today.

Shoutout: A massive thank you to Ellise McCoombe for the fantastic 5-star review!

Important Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode and description is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute specific tax or financial advice. Everyone's situation is unique, and tax laws are complex. For personalized advice tailored to your specific situation, we always recommend consulting with a qualified professional at Aevum Accounting.

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The Aevum Accounting PodcastBy Aevum Accounting