Handmade goods: online shop and markets

Gift buyers, shoppers who like handmade products, and people decorating their homes.

You sell each item at a retail price above your materials and time cost. You can also take orders for custom or personalised pieces, and sell more in the lead-up to Christmas and Mother's Day.

• A craft you can make well, or an eye for good products
• Product photography and simple online listings
• Pricing and keeping track of stock
• Friendly customer service

• You need an ABN, and GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold, so check with the ATO
• Public liability insurance, which many markets require before they will give you a stall
• Check whether your council requires approval to run a home-based business
• Product rules: check Australian Consumer Law requirements and any safety standards for items like candles, children's products or anything with labelling needs
• Selling other makers' work: agree prices and terms in writing, and be honest about who made each item

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on materials, stock, online shop setup and market stall needs. These are estimates only, so start with a small range and check current prices.

Check ABN and GST registration with the ATO, public liability insurance (many markets require it) and whether your council requires approval for a home-based business. Also check Australian Consumer Law and safety or labelling rules for items like candles.

Monthly revenue is typically around $300 to $3,000, depending on your range, pricing and how often you sell online and at markets. Expect at least about 8 hours a week. These are estimates, not guarantees.