Your salary package is more than just your base pay: It includes super, and for many Queensland Health staff, some pretty handy fringe benefits too. By ‘sacrificing’ part of your salary for fringe benefits or extra super contributions, you can lower your taxable income and keep more in your pocket.
So, what can you claim?
If you work for a Queensland public hospital or ambulance service, you’re likely eligible to salary package a range of non-cash benefits without attracting Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT). That’s because public or not-for-profit hospitals come with generous FBT concessions.
These tax-effective benefits can include:
- Everyday Living Expenses up to $9,010
You can claim general living costs such as:
- Mortgage or rent payments
- Credit card bills
- School fees
- Private Health Insurance premiums
- Child Care fees
- Personal loan payments
Keep in mind — salary packaging in Queensland is administered by RemServ or SmartSalary, and each provider may apply their own rules and fees. It’s worth checking their specific guidelines to maximise your benefit.
- Exempt Work-related Items
Eligible items like laptops, tablets or mobile phones used primarily for work may be fully exempt from FBT – a simple way to save if you're due for an upgrade.
Thinking about getting an Electric Vehicle?
If you’re a Queensland Health employee, you might be eligible to salary package a novated lease on a new electric vehicle (EV). A novated lease lets you pay for your car using a portion of your pre-tax salary, which lowers your taxable income and boosts your take-home pay.
Even better, recent Federal Government changes mean eligible EVs leased under a novated agreement are now exempt from Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT). That’s a major win for employers and staff who want to drive a cleaner, greener vehicle without the hefty price tag.
Since this incentive is unlikely to last forever, now is the time for both employers and employees to make the most of it. It’s always a good idea to check with a tax professional for updates or changes to eligibility and timelines.
Let’s get you started.
Salary packaging in Queensland can be a smart way to boost your take-home pay — if it’s done right. If you’re unsure what you can claim or how to structure it, we’re here to help.
Speak with our team today to explore your salary packaging options and make the most of what’s available to you.
Drawing on over 30 years of experience, Sav takes a holistic approach with his clients, allowing him to consider many aspects of clients' finances including their family, practice/business arrangements, investment strategies and retirement planning (including superannuation).
