Second-Hand appliance shop with workshop

Budget-conscious households, landlords and property managers furnishing rentals, students and people replacing a broken appliance quickly.

Profit on each appliance sold, plus delivery and installation fees, optional extended warranties and repair work for customers.

• Appliance repair and testing
• Sourcing stock at good prices
• Retail and customer service
• Basic bookkeeping

• Lease terms and the need for a permitted use for the premises, so check with your local council
• Electrical and gas work rules differ by state, so check which repairs need a licensed tradesperson
• Australian Consumer Law guarantees apply to second-hand goods, so check what you must offer
• Safe disposal of refrigerants and unsellable appliances
• Stock can sit unsold, so keep an eye on cash flow
• Workers compensation insurance is needed once you hire staff, so check your state scheme

Startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your premises, stock and workshop setup. These are estimates only, so your own costs will vary with the size and location of the space.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your stock, location and how many appliances you sell. These are estimates, and stock can sit unsold, so keep an eye on cash flow.

Check your lease terms and whether the premises have a permitted use with your local council. Electrical and gas work rules differ by state, so check which repairs need a licensed tradesperson. Also check Australian Consumer Law guarantees, refrigerant disposal and workers compensation once you hire.