Agrifood export compliance consultant

Farms, packers, food processors and cooperatives that export regularly or are moving into new markets.

Monthly retainers for ongoing compliance support, project fees for entering new markets, and day rates for audits or training.

• Deep knowledge of one product sector
• Understanding of certification and inspection processes
• Relationship building with producers and agents
• Attention to detail

• Professional indemnity insurance is worth checking, as errors can lead to rejected shipments
• Export certification rules change and differ by product and destination, so verify with the relevant government department every time
• Check whether any part of your service needs a licence, for example customs broking
• Income can be lumpy, as clients' export seasons vary
• Register for an ABN and check GST obligations as your turnover grows

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $2,000 to $10,000, depending on your setup, tools and insurance. Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on your clients and their export seasons, so income can be lumpy.

Check whether professional indemnity insurance suits you, as errors can lead to rejected shipments. Export certification rules differ by product and destination, so verify with the relevant government department every time. Also check whether any part of your service, such as customs broking, needs a licence, and register for an ABN.

You need deep knowledge of one product sector, an understanding of certification and inspection processes, good relationships with producers and agents, and strong attention to detail. It is a full-time specialist role, typically at least around 30 hours a week.