Open an independent record shop
Open a small shop selling records, CDs and music gifts, and become a hub for local music fans.
- A$25k-100k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in Australia, not guarantees.
What it is
A small street-front record shop with new and second-hand vinyl, CDs, turntables, accessories and merchandise. Many also run in-store gigs, listening nights and buy-in days for people's collections.
Your first three steps
- Research local demand and rents, and talk to nearby shops, labels and distributors about wholesale terms
- Write a simple budget covering the lease, fit-out, opening stock and at least six months of running costs
- Start online or at markets first to build a customer base and stock, then look for a small shopfront
Who pays
Local music fans, collectors, DJs, gift shoppers and people selling their old collections.
How it makes money
Retail margin on new and second-hand stock, plus accessories and events. Buying collections from the public can give good margins on used stock.
Skills that help
- Deep music knowledge
- Stock buying and pricing
- Customer service
- Basic bookkeeping and managing rent and stock
Watch out for
- Commercial lease terms, get advice before signing
- Public liability and contents insurance, plus workers compensation once you hire
- Council rules on shop use, signage and any events or live music, check with your local council
- Slow stock turnover and rent pressure, which tie up cash
- GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold
🔒 Full research report for Australia
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to open a record shop in Australia?
Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and how much new and second-hand stock you buy. These are estimates, so get real quotes for rent and stock before you commit.
How much can an independent record shop make?
Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on location, stock range, and whether you add events or buy-in days. These are estimates of revenue, not profit, and the shop usually needs at least about 35 hours a week.
What should I check before opening a record shop?
Get advice on commercial lease terms before signing, and check public liability and contents insurance. Ask your local council about shop use, signage and any live music or events. Also consider GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold.
Other ways to run this business
Online record and CD shop
Sell second-hand and new records and CDs to collectors through your own site and online marketplaces.
- A$1k-6k
- Side hustle
- Online
Record stall at markets and fairs
Sell records, CDs and music gear from a stall at weekend markets, record fairs and pop-ups.
- A$1.5k-5k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
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