06-Mar-2009 Both the Treasurer and the Acting Tax Commissioner Jennie Granger have reminded parents to make sure they keep their receipts if they wish to claim the education tax refund. The first year people can claim the refund is for the 2008-09 year (1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009).

Ms Granger said those who receive Family Tax Benefit Part A can claim an education tax refund of up to $375 for each primary school child's eligible education expenses and up to $750 for secondary students. She said that even those who don't receive Family Tax Benefit Part A may still be eligible if a child receives a Centrelink payment like the student allowance or ABSTUDY.
 
Independent students and approved care organisations looking after children attending primary and secondary school can also claim, the Acting Commissioner noted. She said that people who do not need to lodge a tax return can still claim the refund on a special form that will be available from the Tax Office in July 2009.

People can claim up to 50% back on the cost of things such as:
• laptops and home computers;
• printers, software and internet connections;
• textbooks and other printed learning materials; and
• stationery and trade tools for school-based trade courses.

For further information, you can download more details here.

Feel free to contact Charles or Matthew with questions.

---