Affiliate Marketing In Australia 2026: How To Start, ATO Tax Rules And Best Networks
Lily Roberts
Senior Marketing Strategist
11.08.2026
Quick answer: Affiliate marketing in Australia means earning commission when readers buy through your links. The main local network is Commission Factory, which holds the largest share of Australian sites using affiliate platforms, alongside Impact, Amazon Associates Australia and Awin. If you earn with a profit motive, the ATO usually treats it as a business: you declare the income, an ABN avoids 47% withholding from payers, and GST registration applies once turnover reaches $75,000.
Australian brands have embraced affiliate marketing quickly, from fashion labels to banks and travel sites. Local programmes pay in AUD and convert better for Australian readers than US stores with international shipping.
How Affiliate Marketing Works In Australia
You publish content such as reviews and buying guides, add tracking links from a network or brand, and earn commission on sales or sign-ups within each programme’s tracking window. Retailers usually pay a percentage of the sale; finance, energy, telco and subscription brands often pay a flat fee.
Brands with Australian programmes include Amazon.com.au, THE ICONIC, Adore Beauty, UNIQLO, Koala, Appliances Online, PETstock, Marley Spoon, Trip.com and Camplify. See our ranked list of the best affiliate programs in Australia.
Affiliate Marketing Tax In Australia
The ATO separates hobbies from businesses. Hobby income generally is not taxable, but you also cannot claim deductions. If you post regularly, try to grow your audience and run your activity in a business-like way to make a profit, the ATO is likely to treat your affiliate income as business income, which you must declare.
ABN: If you supply services to businesses without quoting an ABN, they may have to withhold 47% of the payment.
GST: You must register for GST once your business turnover reaches, or is expected to reach, $75,000 in a 12-month period.
Records: Keep records of commissions and expenses for five years.
This is general information, not tax advice. A registered tax agent can confirm how the rules apply to you.
Disclosure Rules In Australia
Australian Consumer Law prohibits misleading conduct, and the ACCC expects influencers and publishers to disclose commercial relationships clearly. Label affiliate content near the link and at the start of social posts, not only in a footer.
How To Start Affiliate Marketing In Australia
Pick a niche with buying intent. Home, outdoor, beauty, finance and travel perform well.
Build a site or channel. Publish original content before applying.
Join Commission Factory. Apply to Australian brands that match your content.
Get an ABN once you are serious. It keeps payments clean and avoids withholding.
Disclose and track. Label links and record every payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is affiliate marketing legal in Australia?
Yes, provided you disclose commercial relationships and declare business income.
Do I need an ABN for affiliate marketing?
If your activity is a business, an ABN is strongly recommended and prevents 47% withholding by payers.
Which affiliate network is best in Australia?
Commission Factory has the largest local share, and most publishers pair it with Amazon Australia.
When do I register for GST?
When your business turnover reaches or is expected to reach $75,000 in 12 months.
Conclusion
Affiliate marketing in Australia works best with local programmes that pay in AUD, starting with Amazon Australia and Commission Factory. Treat it as a business once it grows, get an ABN, watch the GST threshold and disclose every link.
