Can I claim my Self Education costs?
There needs to be the necessary nexus (connection) to your current income for these expenses to be claimable. This means that the Self Education needs to help you in your current job and not be undertaken to open up new job opportunities.
Example 1:
Amanda is a pharmacy sales assistant who is studying for a Pharmacy degree so that she can become a pharmacist.  The expenses related to the study are not allowable as the study is designed to open up a new income-earning activity.
Example 2:
Barry, a trainee accountant, is studying commerce part-time at university. He is allowed a deduction for the costs associated with the course because the course enables Barry to maintain or increase the specific knowledge required in his current position and to carry out his duties more effectively.

Are my education expenses claimable against AUSTUDY?
No. The tax office has ruled that deductions for education expenses are not deductible against AUSTUDY income.

Can I claim the costs of seminars?
Yes.  The costs are tax deductible provided that they relate to your current income producing activities.