Swimmers, an airfryer and a TV: ATO reveals 'outrageous' tax deduction attempts

The Australian Taxation Office has revealed some of the most "outrageous" things people tried to deduct from their tax returns last year.

Tax deductions are reserved for work-related expenses, but the ATO says not everyone got the memo.

One mechanic tried to claim an airfyer, microwave, two vacuum cleaners, a television, a gaming console and gaming accessories as work-related expenses - his request was denied.

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In another case, a truck driver tried to claim a pair of swimmers because it was hot where he stopped on his journey, and he wanted to go for a swim.

There was even an instance where a manager working in the fashion industry tried to claim $10,000 in designer clothes to be well-presented at work and business events.

Her request was denied because the clothes were "conventional" and not uniforms, so they are considered a personal item, not a work item, the ATO said.

The ATO called the tax deduction claims "outrageous" and "wild".

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ATO Assistant Commissioner Rob Thomson told taxpayers that exaggerated deduction attempts would not be tolerated.

"While some people have tried their luck with unusual work-related deduction claims, most people realise to be able to claim an expense, it needs to meet strict criteria," he said.

"While a lunchtime dip might clear your head for work, swimwear for a truck driver is clearly not deductible.

"We know in many instances mistakes relating to work-related expenses could be avoided with a little time and effort."

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This year, the ATO says it will be focusing on areas it often sees errors in, like work-related expenses and work-from-home deductions.

"Work-related expenses must have a close connection to your income-earning activities, and you should be prepared to back it up, with records like a receipt or invoice," Thomson said.

"If your deductions don't pass the 'pub test', it's highly unlikely your claim would meet the ATO's strict criteria."

Anyone looking for guidance on what you can or can't claim can check the ATO website for more information.