I’M JUST GETTING FREE GIFTS – I SHOULDN’T HAVE TO PAY TAX!
- Arnold Shields
- Feb 17
- 3 min read
Updated: May 9
Think Again – The ATO is Watching!
Influencers: Freebies Are Not Free
If you’re a social media influencer, it’s time to stop relying on what your mates say about tax. That “gift” or free trip you posted on Instagram? It’s probably taxable. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is keeping a close eye on digital creators, and if you're receiving income—cash or otherwise—you must report it.
At Dolman Bateman, we specialise in tax advisory for influencers, creators, and online entrepreneurs.
We help you stay compliant, maximise deductions, and avoid unnecessary ATO attention.
Do I Have to Declare Influencer Income?
Short answer: Yes, absolutely. If you’re receiving any of the following, you need to declare it in your tax return:
Cash payments or sponsorship fees
Monetary tips or digital gifts from fans
Affiliate income and ad revenue
PR packages and gifted products
Services (like free accommodation or treatments)
Paid event appearances or licensing deals
What About International Income?
Earnings from global platforms like YouTube, Twitch, or Patreon still count as income in Australia. It doesn’t matter if the brand is in LA or London—the ATO wants to see it in your tax return.
The Truth About Gifts and Freebies
Just because you didn’t get cash doesn’t mean it’s tax-free.
Gifts = Income: If there’s an expectation that you’ll promote a product or service, it’s classed as income.
Businesses are declaring it: Brands deduct the cost of PR packages on their end—so there’s a record of it.
The ATO is watching: They match data, run social media audits, and use tech to detect undeclared income.
Penalties are real: Undisclosed income can lead to fines, interest charges, audits, and legal action.
Why You Need an Influencer-Savvy Accountant
Don’t let misinformation or poor advice put your reputation or finances at risk. At Dolman Bateman, we:
✅ Understand influencer-specific tax laws
✅ Ensure accurate income declaration and bookkeeping
✅ Help you claim legit deductions like your camera, lighting, software, and internet
✅ Provide proactive compliance strategies so you’re prepared before tax time
Real ATO Crackdowns Are Happening
We’ve seen influencers face:
ATO audits and backdated tax bills
Fines for underreporting earnings
Interest penalties for late or missing payments
Don’t become the next cautionary tale.
What Should You Do Now?
Here’s your influencer tax survival checklist:
🔹 Track Everything – Record every gift, payment, and exchange
🔹 Keep Receipts – Even for free items, note down values and correspondence
🔹 Get the Right Structure – ABN, sole trader, or company, we’ll help you pick
🔹 Speak to a Specialist – Don’t risk it with generic tax advice
Stay Ahead. Stay Compliant.
Influencing is a business. Treat it like one. Book your free initial consultation with Dolman Bateman today and let us help you stay on the right side of the ATO.
👉 Contact us now to get started.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal financial, legal or tax advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this content at the time of publication, tax laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances vary. Dolman Bateman accepts no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage incurred as a result of acting on or relying upon any of the information contained herein. You should seek professional advice tailored to your specific situation before making any financial or tax decision.
