Local aquarium fish and supplies shop

Home hobbyists, families buying a first tank, and experienced keepers who want quality stock and supplies close by.

Margin on live fish and plants, plus higher-value sales of tanks, equipment and food. Repeat visits for food, water treatments and filter media help keep income steady.

• Knowledge of fish care and water chemistry
• Customer service and patient advice
• Stock ordering and basic bookkeeping

• Rules on which fish species can be kept or sold differ by state and territory, check your state's list of prohibited or noxious fish
• Check whether your state or council requires pet shop registration or follows an animal welfare code of practice
• Public liability insurance, and cover for stock loss from power cuts or equipment failure
• Live stock means daily care, even on days off, so plan your rostering and holiday cover
• Council approval for the shop use and signage, and check lease terms before committing

Our estimates suggest startup costs typically around $40,000 to $120,000, depending on your premises, display tanks and the range of stock you carry. Get your own quotes and check lease terms before you commit.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on location, range and customer base. Estimates assume at least about 35 hours a week, and live stock needs daily care even on days off, so plan your rostering.

Check which fish species can be kept or sold in your state or territory, including prohibited or noxious lists. Also check whether pet shop registration or an animal welfare code of practice applies, public liability and stock loss cover, and council approval for shop use and signage.