Home-Based interior decorator

Homeowners redecorating or moving in, renters wanting a fresh look, and people preparing a home for sale.

A fixed fee per room or project, or an hourly consultation rate. Some decorators also earn trade discounts or commissions from suppliers, which should be disclosed to clients.

• Eye for colour and style
• Basic design software or mood boards
• Listening to clients and managing budgets

• Get an ABN and check whether you need public liability and professional indemnity insurance
• Check with your local council whether you need approval to run a business from home
• Decorating is different from structural or building work, which needs licensed tradespeople in most states, so check your state's rules
• Use clear written agreements on budget and who orders furnishings, so you are not stuck with returns or disputes

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on your design software, home office setup, insurance and how much you spend on samples and marketing. The main asset is your eye for style.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,500, depending on how many clients you take on and the size of each project. Revenue is before expenses, and the typical minimum time is about 8 hours a week.

Check whether you need an ABN, public liability and professional indemnity insurance, and council approval to run a business from home. Decorating differs from structural or building work, which needs licensed tradespeople in most states, so check your state's rules.