Neighbourhood independent bookshop

Local readers, parents and grandparents buying gifts, book clubs, schools, and community groups.

You buy books from distributors or publishers at a trade discount and sell at the recommended retail price. Gifts and stationery usually carry better margins. School and bulk orders add steadier sales.

• Love of books and knowing what people like to read
• Stock buying and cash flow management
• Friendly customer service
• Organising events and community connections

• Margins on books are thin, so rent and stock levels need careful planning
• Check lease terms, council planning and signage rules for your premises
• Public liability and contents insurance, plus workers compensation if you hire staff (check your state scheme)
• Register for an ABN and check when you need to register for GST
• Unsold stock ties up cash, so ask about returns policies before ordering

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on premises, fit-out and opening stock. Unsold stock ties up cash, so ask about returns policies before ordering.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on location, range and events. Margins on books are thin, so rent and stock levels need careful planning.

Things to check: lease terms, council planning and signage rules, public liability and contents insurance, workers compensation if you hire staff under your state scheme, and ABN registration plus when GST registration applies.