Small businesses across Newcastle and the Hunter are joining a viral social media trend taking aim at the federal government’s proposed capital gains tax (CGT) changes.

Furniture makers to cosmetic clinics are sharing AI-generated images of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appearing as their venture’s “silent partner”.

Local operators have taken to Facebook and Instagram joking that the PM now “owns 47%” of their businesses.

This is a reference to the recent backlash surrounding proposed changes to CGT concessions.

Hunter Valley business owner Josh Vought from Valley Barrel Furniture said the trend was a way for struggling business owners to cope with mounting financial pressure.

“I think it’s more or less just, if you don’t laugh, you cry,” he explained.

Mr Vought, who creates furniture from recycled barrels and reclaimed timber, said while some people believed the proposed changes only impacted wealthy investors, small businesses were often caught in the middle while trying to grow.

“A lot are commenting saying it doesn’t affect small business, but I don’t think they understand the process small businesses need to go through to break away from the rental market,” he said.

He said building equity to eventually purchase a commercial property was becoming increasingly difficult for business owners already facing rising costs and uncertainty.

Mr Vought also pointed to broader pressures affecting the timber and manufacturing industries, including rising costs, housing affordability and challenges sourcing materials.

“We’re trying to do our bit for the environment using sustainable and recycled materials,” he said.

“But, manufacturing needs to remain in Australia… and affordability for small business needs to improve, too.”

Warners Bay venture Aesthetics by Maddy-Jane also joined the online trend, posting on Facebook: “We accidentally left the clinic door unlocked and now Anthony Albanese owns 47% of the business”.

The online posts have spread rapidly across Australia in recent days, with businesses using humour and AI-generated imagery to express frustration over economic pressures and proposed tax reforms.

Mr Vought said many owners felt unheard despite trying to advocate for their industries.

“If you don’t speak up, people can turn around and say you never tried,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.

While the posts have sparked debate, they have also highlighted the financial strain many local operators say they are experiencing among cost-of-living demands.

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