Small neighbourhood sports bar

Locals, sports fans, groups of mates, social clubs and teams who meet after training or games.

Drinks are the main earner, with food, function bookings, meal and drink specials on match nights and sometimes a venue-hire fee for private events.

• Customer service and hosting
• Managing staff rosters and stock
• Cash flow and budgeting
• Keeping a lively crowd safe and under control

• Liquor licence approval can take time and may involve council or community objections, check your state's process
• Responsible service of alcohol training is generally needed for staff, check your state's requirements
• Showing sport commercially usually needs the right commercial subscription or screening rights, check with the provider
• Council planning, food business registration and public liability insurance
• Workers compensation insurance once you hire, and late-night safety and security planning
• High upfront costs and long hours, keep a cash buffer for slow months

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $100,000 to $500,000, depending on the venue, fit-out, screens and licensing. Keep a cash buffer for slow months, as upfront costs are high and the hours are long.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $30,000 to $150,000, depending on location, size and how busy match days are. The estimate assumes at least about 40 hours a week of work.

Check your state's liquor licence process, as approval can take time and may involve objections. Check responsible service of alcohol training, screening rights for showing sport, council planning, food business registration, and insurance including workers compensation once you hire.