Types of activities in the sharing economy

About the sharing economy

If you provide services or assets for a fee through the sharing economy, income tax and GST applies to your earnings.

Operators of the electronic distribution platforms (EDPs) that underpin much of the sharing economy are required to report to us through the Sharing Economy Reporting Regime.

Watch

 Popular sharing economy activities include:

• providing ride-sourcing (also known as ride-sharing) services for a fare through platforms
• renting out a room, house or unit through online platforms
• sharing assets through platforms, including
  • cars
  • caravans or RVs
  • car parking spaces
  • storage space
  • personal belongings
• providing services in the 'gig economy' through platforms, including
  • graphic design
  • creating websites
  • odd jobs like deliveries and furniture assembly.

Activities not part of the sharing economy

Some activities aren't considered part of the sharing economy, for example:

• online selling or classifieds
• crypto asset exchanges
• peer-to-peer finance or crowdfunding

However, you still need to consider how income tax, GST and other obligations may apply to you if you earn income from these other activities.

Get help with your tax affairs

If you need more help with your tax affairs, you can always speak to a registered tax or BAS agentExternal Link.

For more information on the sharing economy and tax see:

• Superannuation and the sharing economy
• Preparing for a potential tax bill
• Data matching
• Sharing Economy Reporting Regime