Home-Based entertainment booking agent

Venues, couples planning weddings, businesses running functions, and local councils or community groups. Some agents also charge performers a commission.

A commission on each booking, usually taken from the performer's fee, or a booking fee added to the client's price. Repeat venue clients help smooth out income.

• Good with people and negotiation
• Organised, with attention to detail
• Knowing the local music and events scene
• Clear writing for quotes and contracts

• Register for an ABN and check when you need to register for GST
• Check whether your state or territory has rules or licensing for booking or employment agents
• Use a written agreement that makes clear performers are contractors, and who pays whom
• Check council rules for running a home-based business
• Consider public liability and professional indemnity insurance, and check whether performers hold their own cover
• Late cancellations and no-shows can damage your reputation, so set clear deposit and cancellation terms

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on your website, marketing, contract templates and insurance. Running from home keeps overheads low, though costs vary with how professional a setup you want.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $300 to $3,000, depending on how many acts you represent, how many bookings you secure and the commission you charge. It usually takes time to build a roster and a reputation.

Check when you need an ABN and GST registration, and whether your state or territory has rules for booking or employment agents. Also check council rules for home businesses, insurance, and use written agreements that make performers' contractor status and payments clear.