Affiliate advertising has become an increasingly popular way for individuals, companies, and organisations to monetize their websites. In Australia, it is essential to understand the regulations surrounding affiliate advertising and the importance of proper disclosures. This blog post will provide you with valuable insights into affiliate advertising and disclose, along with seven examples of affiliate disclosure statements that can be used on your website.
What is affiliate advertising?
Affiliate advertising is a form of online marketing where website owners or bloggers promote products or services through special referral links. When a visitor clicks on these links and makes a purchase, the website owner earns a commission. It is a win-win situation for both the advertiser and the affiliate as they share in the success of each sale.
Why are disclosures important?
In Australia, it is a legal requirement to make disclosures when using affiliate advertising on your website. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recommends transparently disclosing any commercial relationships to ensure consumers are not misled. Failure to disclose such affiliations may result in fines or other legal consequences.
Examples of affiliate disclosure statements:
- “Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.”
- “Please note that some of the links on this website may be affiliate links. We only recommend products or services that we believe will add value to our readers.”
- “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.”
- “This site uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. By clicking through and making a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.”
- “Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that we may earn a commission if you click on the link or make a purchase using the link.”
- “We may receive compensation from companies mentioned in this post through affiliate programs. However, we only recommend products or services we have personally used and believe will add value to our readers.”
- “Please assume that any links on this website are affiliate links, and we may earn a commission if you click on them and make a purchase.”
Where should you place affiliate disclosure statements?
- Before or after an article containing affiliate links.
- On the sidebar or footer of your website.
- In the terms and conditions page.
- At the bottom of product or service reviews.
- Within popup notifications or banners.
- On social media posts containing affiliate links.
- In email newsletters or marketing campaigns.
Australia implemented the disclosure guidelines of the Australian Association of National Advertisers on February 1, 2021. The guidelines impact affiliate marketers, influencers, bloggers, and other marketers who do business in Australia.
Transparency is therefore crucial when using affiliate advertising in Australia. Always disclose your affiliations to keep the trust with your audience and comply with any legal requirements.
Affiliate advertising provides excellent opportunities to earn income through your website. However, it’s essential to understand the laws and regulations surrounding disclosures in Australia.
(And on that note, please note that some of the links on this website may be affiliate links. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my clients and community.)