AUSactive submission for 2024/25 Federal budget calls for tax deductibility for gym memberships

Calling for Fringe Benefit Tax exemption for employer provided gym memberships, tax deductibility for gym memberships for all taxpayers and a national public health campaign developed with key stakeholders to promote the uptake of physical activity and exercise in all forms, AUSactive is today presenting its submission for 2024/25 Federal budget in Canberra.

Already presented to Treasury, AUSactive Chief Executive Barrie Elvish and Policy and Advocacy Officer Mariana Ivantsoff are today in Canberra meeting with government and opposition members to presented its of strategic initiatives for inclusion in the Federal budget that closely align with, and support, the Australian Government's objectives of easing cost-of-living pressures and implementing the National Preventive Health Strategy to combat chronic diseases in Australia.

AUSactive’s proposals advocate for an exemption to Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) policy that will allow all employers to provide their staff with gym memberships or active health participation without penalty. This will remove existing workplace discrimination and levels the playing field for all.

AUSactive’s submission to the Federal Budget calls on the government to:

1. Grant employers an exemption under the FBT legislation, to enable them to provide their staff with gym memberships without penalty

2. Allow Australians to claim an income tax deduction for bona fide active health participation and gym memberships

3. Partner with the body and grassroots organisations to develop and implement a national public health campaign to educate Australians about the vital role of physical activity in enhancing their physical and mental well-being.

The proposals for an exemption to FBT policy will allow all employers to provide their staff with gym memberships or active health participation without penalty. This will remove existing workplace discrimination and levels the playing field for all.

Enabling Australians to claim tax deductions for genuine active health and gym memberships will incentivise individuals to invest in their health by taking up exercise programs.

Ivantsoff explains “these changes, requiring no additional budget allocation, will not only encourage employers to champion physical activity but also support individuals to prioritise their health, resulting in a reduction in government healthcare spending on conditions such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, depression, anxiety, dementia and mental health.

“To leverage these strategies, AUSactive emphasises the necessity of a third crucial initiative: a collaborative effort with the government and grassroots organisations to launch a national public health campaign with a major focus on those who are disproportionally affected by chronic disease rates and poor mental health.”

Elvish and Ivantsoff are scheduled to discuss these initiatives with the Federal Assistant Health Minister Ged Kearney, Federal Assistant Minister for Competition, Charities and Treasury Andrew Leigh and Mel Burke, Policy Advisor the Federal Health Minister, Mark Butler.

Click here to read AUSactive’s full budget submission.