Neighbourhood cafe in a small shopfront

Local workers, residents, parents, students and passing foot traffic who want a good coffee and a quick bite.

Sales of coffee, tea, food and takeaway items. Coffee has strong margins, and repeat regulars and morning trade carry most of the income.

• Making good coffee consistently
• Cost control and pricing
• Managing staff and rosters
• Customer service

• Register the food business with your local council and check food safety rules in your state, including a food safety supervisor and training
• Check council approval, fit-out and signage requirements for the premises before signing a lease
• Public liability insurance, and workers compensation once you hire staff
• Long hours, tight margins and high rent, so test your numbers carefully
• Check award wages and penalty rates with the Fair Work Ombudsman

Startup costs are typically around $60,000 to $250,000, depending on the premises, fit-out, equipment and the size of your menu. These are estimates, so get quotes and test your numbers before signing a lease.

Monthly revenue is typically around $20,000 to $80,000, depending on location, opening hours, menu and foot traffic. Margins are tight and rent is high, so test your numbers carefully before you commit.

Check food business registration with your local council and your state's food safety rules, including supervisor and training requirements. Also check council approval, fit-out and signage rules, insurance, and award wages and penalty rates with the Fair Work Ombudsman.