Navigating Centrelink and eBay Business Transition: Questions and Concerns

[rjd.wreck]

Hey there,

I’m based in Brisbane, Australia, and I’ve been receiving jobseeker payments from Centrelink on a fortnightly basis. Initially, I was actively looking for work, but I started selling used car parts as a side gig. It’s been great, and I’ve found it both profitable and enjoyable. Working on cars and learning about them has always been a passion of mine, almost like a hobby.

I’ve noticed some good sales and it got me thinking - could I turn this into a full-time venture? So, I decided to invest in my eBay store, purchasing a membership and establishing a professional selling ‘name’. I take this seriously and want to be seen as a reliable seller.

However, I’m a bit unsure about a few things:

1. Should I report my income from eBay to Centrelink?
2. Is it time to get an ABN and officially register this as a business, especially since I’ve already sold 90 items?
3. Do I need to be concerned about the ATO or Centrelink in this scenario?
4. If I do go ahead and get an ABN and register the business, what will Centrelink’s response be?
5. Was it a mistake for me to transition my eBay account into an eBay store with a professional name?

[etb321]

You should report additional earnings to centerlink. There's plenty on the web regarding the obligations of a jobseeker recipient.  I found this;

'If you earn above $150 per fortnight, your payment reduces by 50 cents for each dollar between $150 and $256 then by 60 cents for each dollar over $256.' 

Your in a bit of a bind,  every dollar you make on ebay is only worth 50c (or 40c). 

They are required to jump on any opportunity to reduce payments  so I suggest you do your homework and understand the situation fully before contacting them.