Typical AU Hourly Rate
$90–$150
per hour incl. GST
Licence Required
Plumbing licence (state-based)
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💰 Plumbers Tax Deductions
As a plumber, the ATO allows you to claim these work-related expenses as tax deductions. Keep receipts for everything.
🔧 Tools & Equipment
- Pipe cutters
- Drain cameras
- Pressure testers
- Hand tools
- Power tools
- Instant asset write-off (assets under $20,000)
- Depreciation on larger items
💸 Common Deductions
- Licence renewals
- Plumbing tools
- PPE
- Travel between jobs
- Work clothing
- Vehicle expenses
🚗 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 Plumbers Tax Deductions Checklist
Download our free checklist — take it to your accountant at tax time.
🛡️ Insurance for Plumbers
Most plumbers need several types of cover. Here's what to consider:
🛡️
Public liability
Essential cover for plumbing work
🛡️
Professional indemnity
Essential cover for plumbing work
🛡️
Tools cover
Essential cover for plumbing work
🛡️
Income protection
Essential cover for plumbing work
Compare Plumbers Insurance
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📈 Super & Retirement for Plumbers
💼 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
📚 Articles for Plumbers
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