First impressions last. The moment your team steps on-site, their workwear speaks volumes, showcasing their professionalism, commitment to safety, and the strength of your brand before a single tool is lifted. This guide covers everything you need to know about outfitting your crew with branded workwear, including a practical checklist, promotional perks and tips for tax time.

Your team is a walking advertisement for your business. Your logo should be a key factor when deciding on your colour, logo placement and the overall uniform style — do you want polos or work shirts, jackets or hoodies? Do you require caps or hats? A consistent look helps build recognition and reinforces your brand every time your team steps on-site.

Safety should always come first. Depending on your industry, that might mean hi-vis shirts, steel cap boots, or sun protective clothing and hats. Make sure every item meets Australian safety standards and is suited to the work your team does day-to-day.

Distinctive uniforms aren’t just professional, they’re practical. Embroider or print your business name, logo, or even contact details on shirts and jackets so your crew is easily recognisable to clients and the public

Introduce a uniform policy so everyone understands what’s required, when items need to be worn, and how to look after them. This removes confusion and ensures your team is always presenting the right image on the job.

Decide whether you’ll take care of washing uniforms in-house, reimburse employees or let them handle it at home. Whatever you choose, track the costs as they can usually be claimed as business expenses or, in some cases, by staff through their personal tax returns.

Workwear and laundry expenses can add up. Hold onto receipts and invoices so you can substantiate these costs at tax time. It’s a simple step that can save you money in the long run.

Branded workwear isn’t just about appearances. Take the time to explain its importance from safety and identity to promotion and tax benefits. Including this information in your onboarding process helps new team members understand the role their uniform plays in the success of your business from day one.

Finally, make sure you’re claiming correctly. Work with your accountant or use the ATO’s tools, such as myDeductions, to review uniform and laundry expenses each year. It’s a smart way to ensure your business gets the full benefit.

The way your team looks on-site says a lot about your business. Branded uniforms, such as hi-vis shirts with your logo, instantly lift your crew’s appearance. A consistent look not only makes your business appear organised and professional, but it also builds a sense of unity and pride among your team.

On most worksites, protective gear is non-negotiable. Items like steel cap boots, hi-vis vests, and sun protective clothing are about more than ticking boxes. They keep your people safe. When you combine safety gear with your company branding, you make sure your crew is both compliant and easy to identify.

Branded workwear is advertising that pays for itself. Every time your team turns up to a job, your logo is right there on display. Over time, this visibility helps build recognition and trust in your local community, which is a powerful advantage for any trade business.

There is also a financial benefit. In Australia, the ATO allows tax deductions for certain types of workwear and related costs, provided they meet specific conditions. This can include:

• Protective clothing: Gear designed to reduce risk, such as heavy-duty trousers, steel-cap boots, or safety eyewear.
  
  

• Compulsory or registered uniforms: Clothing that is distinctive (for example, carrying your logo or a unique design) and supported by a clear uniform policy.
  
  

• Laundry and cleaning: Your team may be able to claim reasonable costs for washing uniforms at home, with the ATO setting clear guidelines around per-load expenses.
  
  

It is important to keep receipts and follow ATO requirements. Check the latest rules directly or speak with your accountant to make sure you are claiming correctly.

Outfitting your crew in branded, safety-compliant workwear is an investment that pays off in multiple ways. It builds professionalism, strengthens team culture, promotes your business every time you step on-site, and can even deliver tax benefits.

Ready to take the next step? Use the checklist above to get started. If you would like help, your local Fully Promoted team is here to make sure your tradies look sharp, stay safe, and represent your business with pride.