Small-venue cinema equipment installer

Community halls, RSL and sports clubs, schools, churches, councils, independent and pop-up cinemas, and function venues.

Quoted per project: a markup on equipment plus a labour charge for installation and commissioning. Ongoing servicing or maintenance can add repeat income.

• Audio-visual setup and troubleshooting
• Practical installation skills
• Quoting and project planning
• Clear communication with venue managers

• Fixed electrical wiring generally needs a licensed electrician, so check your state's rules and line up a licensed partner
• Public liability and product liability insurance, and check whether you need tools or contract works cover
• Safe work at heights and rigging heavy projectors or speakers, check training requirements
• Seating layout, exits and accessibility may need council or building certifier sign-off, so check early
• Project income is lumpy, so manage deposits, supplier payment terms and cash flow carefully

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your tools, vehicle, insurance and any demonstration equipment. Project income can be lumpy, so manage deposits and supplier payment terms carefully.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $2,500 to $12,000, depending on how many community halls, clubs, schools and independent cinemas you work with and the size of each project. Income varies from month to month.

Fixed electrical wiring generally needs a licensed electrician, so check your state's rules and line up a licensed partner. Check training requirements for working at heights and rigging heavy gear. Seating layout, exits and accessibility may need council or building certifier sign-off, so check early.