Connie Vitale – The Conversation

Australia’s Jaclyn Narracott competes in the women’s skeleton at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. Joe Klamar/AFP via Getty Images

June 19, 2025

Many elite athletes live below the poverty line. Tax‑deductible donations won’t solve the problem

Michelle O'Shea, Western Sydney University; Connie Vitale, Western Sydney University, and Robert B Whait, University of South Australia

It might sound like a good idea: making tax-deductible donations to potential Olympians and Paralympians. But there are a few potential downsides.

The Conversation

June 18, 2025

Robert B Whait, University of South Australia and Connie Vitale, Western Sydney University

Penalties of 25% to 75% of the tax owed may apply for falsely claiming deductions. The more dishonest the claim, the higher the fine.