Influencer Clashes With Critics Over Facelift Amidst Business Woes and Tax Complaints

Influencer Ruby Tuesday Matthews has publicly defended her financial standing and business practices after facing criticism for complaining about tax burdens on small businesses while also appearing to undergo cosmetic surgery.

Matthews, who operates the fashion label ROBEY, stated that she is struggling as a small business owner and attributed these difficulties to government tax policies. She shared an AI-generated image on Instagram featuring herself with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, humorously suggesting he should model for her brand due to the high taxes she pays.

"Considering the government takes up to 47 per cent of what we earn, I figured the Prime Minister basically owns half of ROBEY," Matthews wrote in her caption. "So I invited him to do a little unpaid modelling because we've lost our campaign budgets."

Her statements prompted a strong reaction from some followers, who questioned her claims of financial hardship. One commenter pointed out her recent facelift and expensive lifestyle, suggesting that she might have more disposable income than she lets on. Another commenter suggested she find a traditional job if her businesses were too financially burdensome, which drew a sharp response from Matthews.

Matthews retaliated against the criticism, stating, "You don't know s**t about me, you idiot." She explained that her car is financed through her business for work-related travel and that her facelift cost less than her annual Botox treatments. She also detailed her extensive work history, starting at age 13 in various roles within the fashion industry, including working in a sweatshop and managing stores.

"I started with absolutely nothing, as a young single mother with two children, and built everything I have myself," Matthews asserted. She argued that traditional wages often do not allow Australians to afford major life expenses and stressed that she employs people, supports other businesses, pays significant taxes, and works seven days a week.

Matthews also addressed accusations of Australian tall poppy syndrome, stating that perceptions of privilege based on her possessions overlook her substantial mortgages and the effort involved in building her businesses. She recounted being a single mother with no financial resources at age 23, emphasizing that her current life was built through hard work.

Earlier, Matthews had revealed her consideration of leaving Australia due to high operating costs for her businesses, ROBEY and Toujours. She and her partner, Shannan Dodd, are reportedly looking at relocating to Hong Kong, believing their businesses would thrive overseas. Matthews expressed frustration that despite working harder than ever, a significant portion of their earnings goes to the government.