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Negative gearing happens when your investment property costs more to hold than it earns in rent. The shortfall — your net rental loss — is deducted from your taxable income, reducing the tax you pay on your salary and other earnings. The bigger your marginal tax rate, the larger the tax saving.
Negative gearing is only worthwhile if your property grows in value faster than the after-tax cost of holding it. A common mistake is chasing the tax refund while ignoring that you are losing money each year. The calculator above helps you estimate whether the numbers stack up for your situation.
You earn $120,000 salary and own an investment property generating $25,000 in rent with $35,000 in expenses (interest, rates, depreciation, management). Your $10,000 net loss reduces your taxable income to $110,000. At a 37% marginal rate, that saves you $3,700 in tax — but you are still $6,300 out of pocket after the refund.
Deductible expenses include mortgage interest, council and water rates, property management fees, landlord insurance, repairs, depreciation on fixtures, and capital works deductions (2.5% of construction cost for eligible properties). Travel to inspect the property is no longer deductible for residential investors.
Common questions about property investment tax benefits, deductions, and cash flow
For official rules, thresholds, and eligibility criteria, refer to the Australian Taxation Office.
View ATO Rental Property Tax InformationGeneral Information Only
This calculator provides general information only and does not constitute personal financial advice. Results are estimates based on the inputs provided and current ATO rates. Your actual tax obligations may differ. Please consult a licensed financial adviser before making any financial decisions.
Interest rates change, vacancies happen, and the real return depends on more than the tax deduction. Let's stress-test your numbers before you commit.
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