Start an online boutique store

Shoppers who want something different from big chain stores, often found through Instagram, TikTok and word of mouth.

You buy stock at wholesale prices and sell at retail, keeping the margin after postage, payment fees, returns and advertising.

• A good eye for style and trends
• Basic photography and social media
• Organised stock and order handling

• Get an ABN and check when you need to register for GST
• Check your obligations under Australian Consumer Law for refunds, faulty goods and accurate product descriptions
• Unsold stock ties up cash, so start with small orders
• If you store stock at home, check whether your council needs approval for a home-based business

Estimates suggest startup costs typically sit around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on how much stock you buy and how you set up your website. Starting with small orders helps, because unsold stock ties up cash.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $500 to $5,000, depending on your range, how often you post and how well you reach customers. That is revenue, not profit, so stock and other costs come out of it.

Things to check: get an ABN and see when you need to register for GST. Review your Australian Consumer Law obligations on refunds, faulty goods and accurate product descriptions. If you store stock at home, check whether your council needs approval.