Local aquarium shop with live fish

Local hobbyists, families buying a first tank, and experienced fish keepers who want healthy livestock and expert advice.

Margin on live fish and plants plus higher-value tanks and equipment. Regular food and water-care purchases bring repeat visits, and you can add tank setup and maintenance services.

• Strong fish-keeping and water chemistry knowledge
• Customer service and product advice
• Stock control and retail basics

• Check which fish species are banned or restricted in your state or territory with your fisheries or biosecurity agency
• Check council requirements for the premises, signage, and any trade waste or water discharge rules
• Animal welfare laws apply to livestock, so check your state's requirements for housing and selling live animals
• Livestock losses from disease, power cuts or equipment failure can hurt cash flow
• Public liability and property insurance, plus workers compensation once you hire staff
• Rent and energy costs for running many tanks can be high, so test the numbers first

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on your premises, fit-out, number of tanks and opening stock. Ongoing rent and energy costs for running many tanks can also be high, so test your numbers first.

Check which fish species are banned or restricted in your state or territory, council requirements for premises, signage and water discharge, and your state's animal welfare rules for housing and selling live animals. Also check your insurance needs.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on location, stock range and livestock losses. Expect at least about 40 hours a week, and plan for losses from disease, power cuts or equipment failure.