Home-Based fertiliser agent

Broadacre and mixed farmers, horticulture growers, hobby farmers, turf and landscaping businesses.

A margin on each order or a commission from the supplier. Repeat seasonal orders from regular customers are the main source of income.

• Building trust with farmers
• Basic knowledge of crop and soil nutrition
• Negotiating prices and organising deliveries

• Public liability and product liability insurance, and whether your supplier's cover applies to you
• Rules on selling certain fertilisers, such as ammonium nitrate, which can need a security-sensitive licence in some states, so check with your state regulator
• Product labelling and advice rules, and giving advice beyond your training
• Seasonal income and slow payment from customers, so check your payment terms
• Council approval for running a business from home, and ABN and GST registration

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your setup. Because suppliers deliver direct to the customer, you hold no stock yourself. These figures are estimates, so confirm your own costs before you begin.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your customers and the season. Income can be seasonal and customers may pay slowly, so check your payment terms before agreeing to deals.

Check the rules on selling certain fertilisers, such as ammonium nitrate, which can need a security-sensitive licence in some states. Also check with your state regulator, insurance needs, council approval for working from home, and ABN and GST registration.