Small business IT consultant

Small business owners, practice managers, not-for-profits and sole traders with no in-house IT person.

Hourly rate, fixed-price projects (such as an office setup) or a monthly retainer for ongoing support and check-ins.

• Solid knowledge of Windows, Mac and common business software
• Explaining technical things in plain language
• Troubleshooting under time pressure

• Professional indemnity insurance in case your advice causes data loss or downtime; check cover with an insurance broker
• Privacy obligations when you access client data; check the Privacy Act and any industry rules such as health records
• Taking on unlimited support without a written scope; use clear agreements and response times
• GST registration is required once turnover reaches the threshold; check with the ATO

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $4,000, depending on the tools, software and equipment you already have and what you need to buy. These are estimates only, and many people start part-time at around 8 hours a week.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $8,000, depending on how many clients you take on, the hours you work and the type of support you offer. This is an estimate of revenue, not profit.

Check professional indemnity cover with an insurance broker, your privacy obligations under the Privacy Act and any industry rules such as health records, and when GST registration applies with the ATO. Use written scopes and response times for support.