Tax Deductions for Social Media Influencers & Content Creators

Written By Kate Fleming

If you earn money from:

  • Instagram

  • TikTok

  • YouTube

  • OnlyFans

  • affiliate marketing

You are running a business in the eyes of the ATO.

Which means you can claim deductions — but only if they’re legitimate.

Common deductible expenses

✔ Cameras & phones
✔ Lighting & equipment
✔ Editing software
✔ Internet & phone
✔ Home office space
✔ Props & costumes (business related only)
✔ Travel for shoots
✔ Marketing & ads
✔ Accounting fees

What you CAN’T usually claim

✘ Everyday clothing
✘ Normal hair/makeup
✘ Personal gym memberships
✘ Family holidays disguised as “content”

If it has a private benefit, it’s generally not deductible.

Free products count as income

If brands send you:

  • clothes

  • products

  • trips

  • gifts

These are taxable income at market value.

Many influencers miss this.

Structure tips

Once income grows:

  • consider GST registration

  • separate bank account

  • business structure review

  • quarterly BAS

Bottom line

Treat it like a real business and you’ll pay less tax legally and safely.

Kate Fleming
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