Allowances
Generally, all allowances paid or payable to an employee are taxable for payroll tax purposes under Part 3, Division 6. However, there are specific provisions, which apply to motor vehicle allowances and overnight accommodation allowances. The Payroll Tax Act 2009 provides that motor vehicle allowances and overnight accommodation allowances are not considered wages unless they exceed the exempt component. If the allowance exceeds the exempt allowance then only that amount is included as wages for the purpose of the Payroll Tax Act 2009.
The exempt rates for motor vehicle and accommodation allowances are as follows:
| Effective Date | Motor Vehicle Allowance | Accommodation Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| From 1 July 2011 | 75 cents per kilometre | $238.10 per night |
| 1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011 | 75 cents per kilometre | $227.35 per night |
| 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010 | 75 cents per kilometre | $223.80 per night |
| 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009 | 70 cents per kilometre | $218.30 per night |
| Prior to 30 June 2008 | 56 cents per kilometre | $127.60 per night |
Information regarding the treatment and calculation of motor vehicle and accommodation allowances is available in Revenue Ruling PTA011: Allowances & Reimbursements.
This page was last reviewed 7 July, 2011
