Freelance mapping and spatial data work

Local councils, environmental and planning consultants, farmers and landholders, real estate and property developers, and community groups.

Fixed price per project or an hourly or day rate, with some clients paying a retainer to keep their maps and data up to date.

• GIS software such as QGIS or ArcGIS
• Understanding spatial data and map projections
• Clear map design and report writing
• Quoting and managing projects

• Check the licence terms of any data you use, as some datasets can't be resold or used commercially without conditions
• Professional indemnity insurance is worth checking, as errors in maps can lead to costly mistakes for clients
• Councils often use tender or supplier panels, so check how local buyers choose suppliers
• Cheque payment terms and project scope creep, so agree deliverables and payment in writing

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on your computer, GIS software, any data you need to buy, and your insurance and marketing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $800 to $6,000, depending on how many projects you take on, the clients you work for and how you price each job.

Check the licence terms of any data you use, as some datasets can't be used commercially without conditions. Also check professional indemnity insurance, how local councils choose suppliers, and agree deliverables and payment terms in writing.