Machining workshop for local repairs and parts

Local farms, mechanics, fabricators, small manufacturers, boat owners and hobbyists who need a part made or fixed quickly.

Hourly workshop rate plus materials for repairs and one-off jobs, with quoted prices for repeat or short-run parts.

• Trade qualification or solid experience in machining or fitting and turning
• Reading engineering drawings and measuring accurately
• Quoting jobs and managing customer deadlines

• Public liability and product liability insurance, especially for parts used in safety-critical equipment
• Check with your local council about zoning for industrial use, noise and waste (oils, coolants and metal swarf)
• Workplace health and safety duties for machine guarding and training, check with your state's WHS regulator
• Machines are a big upfront cost, so consider buying used and testing demand first
• Workers compensation insurance is needed once you hire staff

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on whether you buy new or used machines, the unit you rent and your tooling. Machines are a big upfront cost, so test demand first.

Monthly revenue is typically around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on your local customer base, the type of jobs you take and how many hours you work. These figures are estimates, not guarantees.

Check public liability and product liability insurance, council zoning for industrial use, noise and waste such as oils, coolants and swarf, and your state's WHS duties for machine guarding and training. Workers compensation is needed once you hire.