Become a fabric export agent (no stock needed)

Either the overseas buyer or the mill pays you, usually as a commission or a margin on each order.

A percentage commission on orders you arrange, or a small margin when you invoice the buyer directly. Income grows as you build repeat buyers.

• Sales and relationship building
• Negotiating prices and terms
• Organising samples, shipping and documents
• Writing clear emails and quotes

• Get commission terms in writing so you are paid even on repeat orders
• Who carries the risk if goods are wrong, late or damaged, and whether you need professional indemnity insurance
• Export rules, sanctions and import restrictions for your destination countries (check Austrade and the Australian Border Force)
• GST and tax treatment of commission from overseas clients (check with the ATO or an accountant)
• Slow early months while you build trust with buyers and suppliers

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $500 to $3,000, depending on your tools, sample and communication costs, and any insurance you decide you need. Because you do not hold stock, you avoid buying inventory.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $4,000, depending on order volumes and your commission or margin. Early months can be slow while you build trust with buyers and suppliers.

Check export rules, sanctions and import restrictions for your destination countries with Austrade and the Australian Border Force. Also get commission terms in writing, check who carries the risk if goods are wrong, late or damaged, and confirm GST and tax treatment with the ATO or an accountant.