Guided walks and day hikes

Locals looking for a social weekend activity, tourists, corporate groups, walking clubs and visitors wanting a guide.

A set price per person for each walk, plus private group bookings, themed walks (wildlife, sunrise, food stops) and gift vouchers.

• Good navigation and route planning
• Confident leading groups
• First aid and bush safety awareness

• Many national parks and reserves require a commercial tour permit or licence, check with the relevant state park authority or council before charging
• Public liability insurance that covers guided activities, and a participant waiver and health declaration
• Weather, fire bans and track closures, with a clear cancellation policy
• Duty of care for beginners and children, and a working with children check if you take under-18s (check your state's rules)

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $800 to $4,000, depending on safety and first aid gear, insurance, marketing and any permits. Many routes need little equipment beyond what you already own.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on group sizes, your prices, how often you run walks and how weather affects bookings. Part-time weekend guiding will be toward the lower end.

Many national parks and reserves require a commercial tour permit or licence, so check with the relevant state park authority or council before charging. Also check public liability insurance for guided activities, waivers, cancellation policies and any Working with Children Check rules.