What Can Influencers Write Off on Taxes? | Deduction Guide
- Arnold Shields
- Feb 22
- 2 min read
Updated: May 9
Maximise Your Tax Deductions as an Influencer in Australia
If you're earning income through content creation, whether on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, or OnlyFans, you need to treat your activities like a business. The ATO expects you to declare all income, but you’re also entitled to claim legitimate business expenses.
Here’s a breakdown of tax deductions Australian influencers can claim, and how to do it right.
1. Equipment & Tech Write-Offs
Influencers rely heavily on professional-grade gear. If it’s used for business, it’s deductible.
Claimable Items: DSLR cameras, ring lights, drones, microphones, tripods, editing computers, smartphones (proportion used for work), SD cards, batteries, external drives.
ATO Tip: Large purchases over $1,000 may need to be depreciated instead of instantly written off.
2. Home Office & Workspace Costs
If you work from home, you may be eligible to claim a portion of:
Rent or mortgage interest
Internet and phone usage
Electricity and water
Work-specific furniture (desk, chair, lighting)
Shared workspace fees (if you rent office space)
Only the portion used exclusively for your business is deductible. Measure your workspace and keep a usage log.
3. Software, Apps & Subscriptions
Ongoing digital tools used for content creation or marketing are claimable.
Editing apps: Adobe Creative Cloud, Final Cut Pro, Canva Pro
Scheduling tools: Buffer, Later
Website platforms: Squarespace, WordPress
Hosting, domains, analytics tools, cloud storage
4. Creative & Production Costs
Any money spent producing content may be deductible:
Props, lighting, backdrops
Makeup and clothing (if exclusive to content creation)
Photo/video shoot expenses
Paid promotions and advertising
Audio licensing and royalty-free music
Note: Dual-purpose expenses (like clothing or makeup you also use personally) must be apportioned.
5. Business-Related Travel
Travelling for brand collaborations, events, or shoots? Claim what’s work-related:
Airfare and accommodation
Business meals during travel
Taxi, Uber, and rental car costs
Daily expenses on approved business trips
Only claim the portion related to content or work—not personal holidays.
6. Professional & Business Expenses
Running a personal brand means running a business. These services can be deducted:
Accountant or registered tax agent fees
Legal fees for contracts or trademarks
Education and courses to grow your business
Freelancers, editors, and virtual assistants
Business bank and payment processing fees
How to Stay Compliant
Keep all receipts and documentation
Track expenses in Xero, QuickBooks, or a spreadsheet
Separate personal and business finances
Claim only legitimate business costs
ATO audits are on the rise for influencers—don’t take shortcuts.
Need Help Navigating Influencer Tax?
At Dolman Bateman Chartered Accountants, we specialise in influencer finances. We help Australian content creators:
Maximise legal deductions
Set up the right business structure
Avoid mistakes that lead to ATO scrutiny
Book a tax planning session today to make the most of your 2025 deductions.
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.
