Home-Based souvenir maker

Gift shops, visitor centres, cafes, caravan parks and market shoppers in tourist areas.

Wholesale to shops at a set price per item with minimum orders, plus direct sales at markets and online at a higher retail price.

• Craft or making skills
• Simple design and local theme ideas
• Pricing and batch planning
• Dealing with shop buyers

• Check with your local council whether running a home-based business needs approval
• Public liability and product liability insurance, especially for items given to children
• Don't use trademarked logos, landmarks or Indigenous designs without permission; check copyright and cultural rules
• Check labelling and safety rules for children's products or items that touch food
• An ABN is needed, and GST registration once turnover reaches the threshold

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on the craft you choose, your tools and materials, and packaging. Starting with one or two products keeps early spending lower.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $300 to $2,500, depending on how many shops and markets you supply, your product range and your prices. Revenue is not profit, as materials and stall fees come out of it.

Check whether your council requires home-business approval, and look at insurance, including product liability. Get permission before using trademarked logos, landmarks or Indigenous designs. Check labelling and safety rules for children's or food-contact items, and an ABN and GST registration.