The number of digital creators earning more than $100,000 a year has tripled over the past two years, according to digital accountancy platform Hnry.
The platform revealed the figure last night as it announced the first finalists for the 2026 Creator Impact Awards at an event on Queensland’s Gold Coast.
The finalists are:
- Alexa Leary OAM – Paralympic gold medallist and traumatic brain injury advocate, who has used her platform to raise awareness of brain injuries and support others living with their effects.
- Jess Wyatt – Twitch streamer and blood cancer survivor, who has raised more than $30,000 for cancer research through her gaming community.
- Tainui Kaihau – Gold Coast creator and cancer survivor, who ran 100km to raise funds for Make-A-Wish, the charity that supported him during his own cancer treatment.
Hnry Australia Managing Director Karan Anand says the awards recognise a fundamental shift in the role creators play in Australian society and the economy.
“We’re seeing a new generation of sole traders who have turned their knowledge, creativity and personal experiences into careers,” he said.
“What might start as sharing stories or connecting with a community can grow into a genuine business.
“What’s exciting is that this isn’t just about people earning money from content. It’s about the opportunities creators are creating for themselves, the businesses they work with and the communities they reach.”
Hnry’s analysis shows around 45 percent of creators’ income comes from direct relationships with consumer brands and marketing or talent agencies.
More than 72 percent of creators using Hnry are aged under 35.
The Creator Impact Awards recognise Australian and New Zealand creators who use their platforms to drive meaningful change, with nominees assessed on the real-world impact of their content, authenticity and contribution to their communities.
