Contract spraying for farms and landowners

Farmers who lack the time or equipment, lifestyle block owners, and sometimes councils, landcare groups and rural property managers.

Charge per hectare, per hour or per job, with chemical costs passed on or included. Repeat seasonal clients give steady work.

• Safe handling of chemicals
• Operating and maintaining spray equipment
• Knowing weeds, crops and seasons
• Reliable and good at planning

• Commercial spraying often needs training or a licence, check with your state's agriculture or chemical authority
• Public liability insurance that covers chemical application and spray drift
• Spray drift, weather limits and records of chemicals used, check the rules for your state
• Equipment costs and the seasonal nature of the work

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on the sprayer, vehicle and other equipment you choose. Equipment is a major cost, so get quotes first. These figures are estimates only.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,500 to $7,500, depending on your client base and the time of year. The work is seasonal, so plan for quieter months. Revenue is not profit, as equipment and running costs come out of it.

Commercial spraying often needs training or a licence, so check with your state's agriculture or chemical authority. Also check spray drift and weather limits, chemical record requirements for your state, and public liability insurance that covers chemical application.