"Some influencers who participated previously have chosen not to attend this year."
Influencer Divide Over Budget Lock-Up Access
The Albanese government has again invited social media influencers to attend the federal budget lock-up, though a rift has emerged among high-profile creators over the terms of participation.
Key attendees confirmed for 2026 include Hannah Ferguson (Cheek Media), Glen James (Money Money Money podcast), Victoria Devine (She's on the Money podcast), and representatives from The Daily Aus.
Milly Rose Bannister, a content creator with 135,000 Instagram followers, declined the invitation. She stated she could provide content remotely and noted barriers such as an expression of interest process requiring a content plan.
"I can provide content remotely — the EOI process requiring a content plan is a barrier." – Milly Rose Bannister
Hannah Ferguson expressed concern about the requirement but has since secured access.
The Daily Aus was granted access without conditions.
Background
- The government's move to involve influencers began last year, with coverage of travel and accommodation expenses offered to some.
- The budget lock-up is an annual event where journalists — and now influencers — receive embargoed budget information before public release.