Ebook publishing for local authors

Authors who want a polished book without learning the technical side, and sometimes community groups or small businesses wanting a book published.

A mix of upfront fees for editing, design and formatting, and a share of sales royalties. Clear written terms keep this fair for both sides.

• Editing or project managing editors and designers
• Ebook formatting tools
• Clear contracts and communication with authors

• Contracts: have a solicitor check your author agreement, especially rights and royalty terms
• Check professional indemnity and public liability insurance
• Copyright and defamation risks in the books you publish
• Be honest about sales expectations so authors are not misled
• Check GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the tools, design help and business set-up you need. Having a solicitor check your author agreement is also worth planning for.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on how many authors you work with and the services and sales shares you agree. The estimates assume about 10 hours a week as a minimum.

Have a solicitor check your author agreement, especially rights and royalty terms. Also check professional indemnity and public liability insurance, copyright and defamation risks, GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold, and be honest with authors about sales expectations.