Commission-based partnerships and referrals broker

Businesses with a product or service that sells well through partners, such as software firms, food producers, building suppliers and equipment makers.

A commission or referral fee on each deal or partnership that closes, sometimes with a small starting fee.

• Building relationships and trust
• Negotiating and explaining value
• Knowing an industry and its key players
• Patience with long sales cycles

• Income can be slow and uneven, so plan for months with no commission
• Get commission terms in writing, including how long you are paid for repeat business
• Check whether your activity could need a licence in regulated areas such as finance, insurance or real estate
• Check your obligations under Australian Consumer Law so you do not make misleading claims
• Register for GST once turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $200 to $1,500, depending on your website, tools and any travel to meet prospects. You are paid when deals happen rather than for your time, so plan for months with no commission.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $0 to $6,000, depending on how many deals close and the commission terms you agree. Income can be slow and uneven, and long sales cycles are common.

Check whether your activity could need a licence in regulated areas such as finance, insurance or real estate, and your Australian Consumer Law obligations so you avoid misleading claims. Get commission terms in writing and check when GST registration applies.