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Carpenters & Builders
Money & Finance Guide

Everything Australian carpenters & builders need to know about tax, insurance, super and charging the right rate. Updated for 2025–26.

💰 Tax Deductions 🛡️ Insurance 🧮 Rate Calculator
Typical AU Hourly Rate
$70–$120

per hour incl. GST

Licence Required
Building licence / contractor licence
🧮 Work Out Your Rate
Use our free hourly rate calculator to set the right price for your work.
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💰 Carpenters & Builders Tax Deductions

As a carpenters & builder, the ATO allows you to claim these work-related expenses as tax deductions. Keep receipts for everything.

🔧 Tools & Equipment

  • Saws
  • Nail guns
  • Routers
  • Hand tools
  • Power tools
  • Measuring equipment
  • Instant asset write-off (assets under $20,000)
  • Depreciation on larger items

💸 Common Deductions

  • Tools & equipment
  • Licence fees
  • Safety gear
  • Vehicle expenses
  • Labourer costs
  • Travel

🚗 Vehicle & Travel

  • Logbook method (actual costs)
  • Cents per km (up to 5,000km)
  • Ute / van depreciation
  • Fuel, rego, insurance, servicing
  • Toll roads & parking (job sites)
  • Keep a logbook for 12 weeks minimum

📋 Free Carpenters & Builders Tax Deductions Checklist

Download our free checklist — take it to your accountant at tax time.

Download Free PDF →

🛡️ Insurance for Carpenters & Builders

Most carpenters & builders need several types of cover. Here's what to consider:

🛡️
Public liability
Essential cover for carpentry work
🛡️
Contract works
Essential cover for carpentry work
🛡️
Tools cover
Essential cover for carpentry work
🛡️
Income protection
Essential cover for carpentry work

Compare Carpenters & Builders Insurance

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📈 Super & Retirement for Carpenters & Builders

💼 Super Obligations

  • 11.5% super rate (2024–25)
  • Self-employed: voluntary but tax-deductible
  • Salary sacrifice to reduce tax
  • Catch-up contributions if balance <$500k

🧾 GST & BAS

  • Register for GST once turnover hits $75k
  • Charge 10% GST on invoices
  • Lodge BAS quarterly or monthly
  • Claim GST credits on purchases

🚗 Vehicle Finance

  • Chattel mortgage — claim depreciation
  • Finance lease — lower monthly cost
  • Instant asset write-off on eligible utes
  • Input tax credits on GST component
🧮 Super Calculator 🧾 GST Calculator 🚗 Ute Loan Calculator
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