Neighbourhood brewpub with a kitchen

Locals, groups of friends, after-work crowds, families at dinner, and visitors looking for craft beer.

Beer and other drinks sold by the glass, plus food sales. Extra income can come from takeaway kegs, cans or crowlers, and booked events like functions and tasting nights.

• Brewing knowledge or a skilled brewer on the team
• Hospitality and customer service
• Managing stock, costs and staff rosters

• Liquor licence for your state or territory, which can take months and may involve community notice or objections
• Check Australian Taxation Office rules on excise for beer you brew and whether any small brewer concessions apply
• Council food business registration, planning, building and fire safety requirements for the premises
• Responsible service of alcohol training for staff, and a food safety supervisor
• Public liability, property and workers compensation insurance once you hire
• High upfront cost and long hours, so make sure your funding covers the months before sales build

Startup costs are typically around $250,000 to $1,000,000, depending on the premises, brewing system and kitchen fit-out. These are estimates. Make sure your funding also covers the months before sales build.

Check the liquor licence for your state or territory, which can take months and may involve community notice or objections. Also check ATO excise rules for beer you brew, council food registration, planning, building and fire safety requirements, and staff training.

Monthly revenue is typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on location, size and trading hours. The estimate assumes at least about 45 hours a week. That is revenue, not profit, so factor in costs.