Net Investment Loss Calculator
Calculate your net investment loss from negatively geared property or shares in Australia, used for surcharge and family assistance income tests.
Your results
This loss is added back to income for tests such as the Medicare Levy Surcharge and family assistance income tests.
Calculation breakdown
- Net investment loss
- Loss = max(0, related expenses − gross investment income)
Worked example
A rental property earning $12,000 in rent with $20,000 of related deductible expenses produces an $8,000 net investment loss, which is added back for adjusted taxable income tests.
Assumptions
- Covers negatively geared property or share investments only.
- Does not calculate the income tax deduction itself, only the loss figure used for income tests.
Sources
How this calculator works
Enter your investment income and related expenses for rental property or geared shares to calculate a net investment loss, which is added back for tests such as the Medicare Levy Surcharge and family assistance adjusted taxable income, even though it reduces income tax payable. This helps you understand your full adjusted taxable income position.
Rates sourced from the Australian Taxation Office for the 2026–27 financial year. Last reviewed 14/08/2026.
Frequently asked questions
What is a net investment loss?
It is the amount by which deductible expenses on an investment, such as a negatively geared rental property, exceed the income it earns.
Why does a tax loss get added back for some tests?
Government income tests such as the Medicare Levy Surcharge use adjusted taxable income, which adds back net investment losses to reflect your economic position more broadly.
Does this calculate my tax refund?
No, use the Tax Refund Estimate calculator to see how a deductible loss affects your income tax payable.
Editorial review and responsibility
Reviewed by the CalcAussie editorial team on 21 September 2026. Review scope: Method, Australian terminology, material assumptions, source links and user-facing limitations.
Calculator results remain estimates based on the figures entered. Check material decisions against current official information and report a suspected error so it can be reproduced and corrected.
Rates and thresholds are configured for the 2026–27 Australian financial year and should be reviewed when government settings change.
Results are estimates only and are not financial, tax, legal or credit advice.