Freelance meeting and conference planner

Small and medium businesses, not-for-profits, industry associations and office managers who have no time to organise events themselves.

A fixed planning fee or hourly rate per event, sometimes plus a management fee on supplier costs. Some venues may pay commission, so check how you disclose it.

• Organised and calm under pressure
• Clear communication and negotiation with suppliers
• Budgeting and spreadsheets

• Public liability insurance, and check whether professional indemnity cover suits your work
• Council approval may be needed if you run the business from home, check with your local council
• Get a written contract covering cancellations, deposits and who is liable for supplier no-shows
• You need an ABN, and GST registration once your turnover reaches the threshold

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on your computer and software, insurance and how you set up your home office. Working from home keeps overheads low.

Check public liability insurance and whether professional indemnity cover suits your work. You need an ABN, and GST registration once your turnover reaches the threshold. Check with your local council whether approval is needed to run the business from home.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many events you plan and their size. A written contract covering cancellations, deposits and supplier no-shows helps protect your income.