Engineers Australia has joined a growing group of professional bodies in opposition to the government’s proposal to cap tax deductions on work-related education expenses to $2,000.

Dr Brent Jackson, General Manager of Public Affairs for Engineers Australia, said “Any step that makes it harder for people to invest in their skills and expertise is a step backward for Australia.  A skilled and educated workforce is no longer an option; it's a basic necessity. If the government is truly committed to maintaining high-tech, innovative manufacturing and construction capability in this country then professional education must be treated as a priority. The last thing we should be doing is removing incentives for self-funded education.”

The Engineers’ group says self-education expense deductions are used by many to increase their professional expertise and to keep up-to-date with new discoveries, techniques and ideas. They believe it is a fair and equitable incentive for workers to invest in growing their expertise, with the benefits to the entire economy.

“Engineers Australia supports calls to scrap the cap on work-related education expenses, and we join the many professions across the country that stand united to oppose this policy proposal,” said Dr Jackson.