Australian Influencer Charged with Poisoning Baby for Donations and Followers

An Australian influencer from Queensland has been charged with poisoning her baby girl in a bid to gain donations and boost her online following. The 34-year-old woman claimed to be documenting her child’s battle with a terminal illness on social media. However, detectives allege she was administering drugs to the one-year-old, causing “immense distress and pain” which she then filmed.

The case came to light after doctors raised concerns in October when the baby was hospitalized with a severe medical condition. Following an extensive investigation, the woman has been charged with torture, administering poison, producing child exploitation material, and fraud.

Between August and October, authorities claim the woman gave the child multiple prescription and over-the-counter medications without authorization. She allegedly went to great lengths to acquire the drugs, even using leftover medications meant for another household member to conceal her actions.

The investigation began on October 15, when the baby was admitted to the hospital in severe emotional and physical distress. Tests later confirmed the presence of unauthorized medications.

Detective Inspector Dalton confirmed that the child is now “safe and doing well.” The influencer had raised A$60,000 through GoFundMe, and the platform is working to refund the donations.

While other individuals were investigated, no additional charges have been filed. The woman is scheduled to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court today.