Home-based food broker for small producers

The food producers pay you a commission on sales. Buyers pay the producer or distributor directly, not you.

A percentage commission on each sale you win, often agreed in a written agency agreement. Repeat orders from the same buyers build steady monthly income.

• Confident selling and negotiating
• Building relationships with buyers
• Organised follow-up and record keeping
• Understanding food products and pricing

• Get a written agreement covering commission rate, exclusivity, territory and how long you are paid on repeat orders
• Check whether you need GST registration once your turnover reaches the threshold
• Producers remain responsible for food safety and labelling, but check any rules that apply to you with your state food authority
• Check whether your council requires approval for a home-based business
• Consider professional indemnity and public liability insurance
• Income is irregular at first because commission is only paid when sales happen

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $500 to $3,000, depending on what you spend on samples, a phone and computer set-up, and any insurance. Treat this as a guide and check your own costs before you begin.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on how many producers you represent and how many orders you win. Commission is only paid when sales happen, so income is irregular at first.

Get a written agreement covering commission, exclusivity, territory and repeat orders. Check GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold, council approval for a home business, food rules with your state food authority, and insurance.