Beware of tax advice from ‘finfluencers’

Think Twice before taking Tax Tips from Social Media

The Tax Practitioners Board (‘TPB’) warns that the number of ‘finfluencers’ is on the rise.  These are influencers who offer financial advice, including tax advice, on various social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.

Unfortunately, they do not always have the necessary qualifications to give out this advice or provide all the information taxpayers need to make a fully informed decision.  This can result in taxpayers suffering serious financial harm.

The main way ‘finfluencers’ make their money is by getting paid by companies that want to promote their financial products through the ‘finfluencers’ social media platform.

Therefore, taxpayers who are going to use someone to help them manage their tax affairs should make sure they are registered with the TPB by checking the TPB Register.

Protect yourself

Check if your tax advisor is registered with the Tax Practitioners Board at tpb.gov.au. Don’t risk your finances on unqualified ‘finfluencers’. Call the team at Omnis in West Perth if you’re ever unsure.

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Justin Flavel

Managing Director

Justin’s experience spans across 20 years in accounting, financial analysis and general business practice.

Although born and bred on the land, Justin’s interest was more in spreadsheets, ledgers, and finance which led him to attend university. In 1992, Justin graduated with a Bachelor of Business majoring in Accounting and Finance. As well as qualifying as a CPA member and becoming a Fellow of the Taxation Institute of Australia, he began gaining practical experience in small and mid-tier accounting practices.

During the late 90s, Justin decided to expand his horizons and travel through Europe. It was during this time that he seized the opportunity to expand his knowledge on the workings of large organisations by taking on roles in multinational corporations.

Today, Justin’s passion is in facilitating businesses to grow and evolve. His focus is on acting in the role of business mentor to help clients develop the full potential of their businesses. He joins clients on their unique journey, and provides the tools and knowledge they need along the way to make the right decisions.

Justin’s aim for his clients parallels his own philosophy and personal journey—focusing on his own career growth and business success while maintaining balance in his life with his wife and three daughters.

Omnis Group Managing Director - Justin Flavel