Tax-saving strategies for tech professionals
Tax time is here and with rule changes taking effect in 2025–26, it's worth making sure your strategy reflects what's actually current.
Below, we've revisited the practical tips from ACS's Tax Strategies & Saving Tips in the Era of AI event and updated them to reflect the latest ATO rules including the concessional super cap rising to $32,500 from 1 July 2026.
Here's what you can act on now and what to plan for in the year ahead:
1. Salary sacrifice your phone, laptop or tablet
Salary packaging lets your employer purchase a phone, laptop, or tablet using your pre-tax salary reducing your taxable income. These work tools are FBT-exempt, meaning no extra tax cost for your employer and bigger savings for you.
You can package one phone, one laptop, and one tablet per FBT year. To claim for the current FBT year, the item must be purchased before 31 March. After that, the clock resets for the next FBT year.
Example: A $1,500 phone may cost you as little as $825 after tax savings.
Next step: Ask your HR or payroll team if your workplace offers salary packaging and which items are eligible.
2. Contribute to your super the smart way ⚠️ Cap rising from 1 July 2026
The concessional (pre-tax) super cap is $30,000 for FY2025–26, and unused amounts can be carried forward for up to five years — useful for high-income years or to offset capital gains.
Heads up: From 1 July 2026, the concessional cap rises to $32,500 due to indexation linked to average weekly earnings. Plan now if you want to maximise this financial year's limit before 30 June 2026.
Super earnings are taxed at just 15%, compared to marginal rates of 32.5%–45%, so savings compound faster. Note: higher earners above $250,000 may be subject to Division 293 tax, which increases the rate on concessional contributions to 30%.
Example: Someone earning $120,000 could save over $1,600 in tax by salary sacrificing $5,000 into super.
Next step: Log into MyGov to check your contribution history and carry-forward balance. Talk to your payroll team or accountant about setting up a salary sacrifice arrangement before 30 June 2026.
3. Use AI to simplify your financial planning
AI tools can help you build super contribution workflows, compare lease options, interpret ATO rules, and model savings scenarios. For example, comparing cash vs super vs ETF returns. Tools like Genspark, Fellow, and current AI assistants are useful starting points.
Always verify AI outputs with a registered tax agent. Treat AI as a research assistant, not a replacement for professional advice. Tax rules are nuanced and your situation is unique.
Try asking: "What's the most tax-effective way for me to save $10,000 this year, given my income and super balance?"
4. Don’t forget your ACS tax deductions
Your ACS membership fee is tax-deductible and it includes professional indemnity insurance, a benefit often overlooked by tech contractors and consultants when calculating deductions.
ACS short courses and certifications (including those via Skillsoft or ACS Certifications) may also be claimable, provided they directly relate to your current role. Keep your receipts and confirm eligibility with your accountant.
This information is general in nature and does not constitute financial or tax advice. Please speak with a registered tax agent or accountant for advice tailored to your personal circumstances.
For more tax strategies and saving tips tailored to ICT professionals, watch the session here