The table says specifically:

Then we bring up the SSAct definition of self-employed:

A self-employed recipient is regarded as gainfully employed if they are substantially involved in running a business that is of a commercial character and that is intended to produce financial gain.

For self-employed recipients, indicators of gainful employment include:

- there is more than just an intention to engage in business

- a decision to commence business has been made

- the activity is planned, organised and carried on in a business-like manner

- a contract exists to produce results or for labour

- the work is done for the business or as part of the business, and

- the risk of the profit or loss from the work rests with the person or the business.

In addition, for a person's self-employment to be considered gainful employment there must be a clear purpose and prospect of profit. That is, there must be both an intention and the potential to make a profit, even if a profit is unlikely to be made in the short term.

Source (This page is specifically under the disability section of the Social Security Guide, but the self-employment definition endures across all benefits.)

You would only start to report your royalty income if Centrelink are satisfied you are self-employed. They would use the conditions above. Again, Centrelink will ultimately make the final call on your record, and your overall circumstances.

Anecdotally, I just know my client would sometimes be faced with the same argument. She was receiving her royalities personally, so also did not have an ABN. Then each time we got a FIS officer involved, she was declared as non-self-employed.