A Tradie's Guide to Tracking Business Mileage for Tax
11 October 2026 · 5 min read · By Heaney Accounting
Why accurate mileage tracking matters
If you use your personal or work vehicle for business, you need proof of your travel to claim deductions. Without a solid record, the ATO may disallow your fuel, insurance, and maintenance claims.
The two main methods for claims
- Cents-per-km method: Best for lower annual mileage, capped at 5,000km.
- Logbook method: Necessary for larger claims, requires a continuous 12-week logbook.
- Actual cost method: Requires detailed records of every fuel receipt and repair invoice.
- Start your logbook at the beginning of the financial year.
- Record every trip including the date, odometer reading, and specific purpose.
- Keep all relevant receipts for vehicle maintenance and fuel in a digital folder.
Pro Tip: Always remember that travel between your home and your main place of work is generally considered private and cannot be claimed as a business expense.
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