GST calculator for painters (Australia)
Painters often price by the room, by the square metre or by the job, then add paint and materials. However you price it, if you're registered for GST the whole price is taxable, including prep work, paint and materials, and any colour consultation you charge for.
Worked example: a typical painter invoice
| Item | Qty | Unit price (ex GST) | Line total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prep: sand, fill and mask (hours) | 6 | $75.00 | $450.00 |
| Two coats, walls and ceilings, 3 bedrooms (lump sum) | 1 | $1,980.00 | $1,980.00 |
| Premium interior paint, 15 L | 2 | $219.00 | $438.00 |
| Sundries: tape, filler, drop sheets | 1 | $65.00 | $65.00 |
| Subtotal (GST-exclusive) | $2,933.00 | ||
| GST (10% of the subtotal) | $293.30 | ||
| Total including GST | $3,226.30 | ||
Figures are an illustration, not suggested prices. GST is worked out on the subtotal and rounded to the cent (the ATO's "total invoice" rounding approach). Check: $3,226.30 ÷ 11 = $293.30.
GST credits painters commonly claim
If you're registered for GST, you can generally claim a GST credit for the GST in business purchases (the business-use share for mixed-use items), as long as you hold a tax invoice for purchases over $82.50 including GST. Common examples:
- paint and sundries from the trade store, with tax invoices over $82.50
- ladders, spray rigs and scaffolding hire
- drop sheets, brushes and rollers
- the business-use share of your vehicle
- advertising and website costs
Common GST mistakes
- Quoting by the square metre and forgetting to say whether the rate includes GST.
- Paying for paint on a personal card and losing the tax invoice: no tax invoice, no credit for purchases over $82.50.
- Not separating a deposit for materials from the final invoice.
Questions
Is the paint I supply taxable if I'm registered?
Yes. Paint and materials you supply are part of the taxable price of the job.
I price per square metre. How do I show GST?
Show the rate and area, the GST-exclusive subtotal, the GST and the total. Or state "Total price includes GST" if GST is exactly 1/11 of the total.
The rules in one place
- GST is 10%. The GST in a GST-inclusive price is the price ÷ 11.
- You must register at A$75,000 GST turnover (current month plus the previous 11, or projected for the next 12), within 21 days. Taxi and rideshare drivers must register regardless of turnover.
- If a customer asks for a tax invoice, you must give one within 28 days, unless the sale is A$82.50 (incl. GST) or less.
- Quarterly BAS for FY2026-27 is due 28 Oct 2026, Tue 2 Mar 2027, 28 Apr 2027 and 28 Jul 2027 (calculator).
Sources (checked 17 Oct 2026): ATO Tax invoices (updated 18 Sep 2026); ATO Registering for GST; ATO When you can claim a GST credit.
General information, not tax advice. It doesn't take your circumstances into account. Check with the ATO or a registered tax or BAS agent.
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- Free printable invoice template for painters · Full GST calculator · BAS due dates · PAYG instalments
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