10 Low-Investment Business Ideas That Actually Work in Australia

You Don’t Need Thousands to Start a Business

One of the biggest myths holding back aspiring Aussie entrepreneurs?

That you need $50,000 and a fancy office to start.

The reality? Some of the most profitable businesses started with next to nothing—just a laptop, a phone, and the guts to give it a go.

Here are 10 business ideas you can start with minimal capital and maximum potential, even if you’re starting from scratch.

1. Freelance Services (Writing, Design, Marketing)

If you’ve got skills—writing, graphic design, social media, or video editing—you can freelance from home.

Use platforms like Airtasker, Upwork or Fiverr to find your first clients.

Startup cost: $0 – $200 (depending on tools)

2. Online Coaching or Tutoring

Academic tutoring, fitness coaching, mindset mentoring—whatever you’re good at, someone’s willing to pay to learn it.

All you need is Zoom, a booking system, and basic branding.

Startup cost: $50 – $300

3. Dropshipping Store

Sell products online without holding stock. You list, sell, and the supplier ships direct.

Use platforms like Shopify + apps like DSers or Zendrop.

Startup cost: ~$200 for store setup and ads

4. Cleaning Services

Residential or commercial cleaning businesses continue to boom, especially post-pandemic. Start local, offer flexible packages, and build by word-of-mouth.

Startup cost: ~$300 for supplies and business basics

5. Mobile Car Wash or Detailing

A bucket, eco-friendly products, and some hustle can get you started. Aussie car owners love convenience.

Startup cost: $200 – $500

6. Handmade Products (Candles, Soaps, Jewellery)

Have a craft hobby? Turn it into a business. Start small and test on platforms like Etsy, Instagram, or at local markets.

Startup cost: $100 – $500 (depends on stock and packaging)

7. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

With so many Aussie households owning pets, there’s strong demand for reliable pet services. Offer your services locally via Gumtree or Pawshake.

Startup cost: $0 – $100

8. Virtual Assistant (VA) Services

Busy business owners need help with admin, inbox management, scheduling, and research.

VAs are in demand—and you can start from home.

Startup cost: Under $100

9. Local Gardening or Lawn Care

Perfect for those who love working outdoors. Offer mowing, edging, weeding, and basic landscaping.

Startup cost: $300 – $800 (tools can often be hired or second-hand)

10. Digital Products (Templates, Planners, Courses)

Create once. Sell forever. Platforms like Gumroad or Etsy let you sell digital items easily.

Design templates on Canva or Notion, and market through TikTok or Instagram.

Startup cost: $0 – $150

Final Word: Start Small. Grow Fast.

You don’t need a massive investment to begin. You just need one simple, proven idea—and the willingness to start.

Many of Australia’s most successful small businesses began as low-cost ideas run after hours. Yours could be next.

Need Help Turning Your Idea into a Real Business?

From branding and ABN setup to websites and online stores—we’ve got everything you need to launch right.

Consult us now and we’ll help you start lean, smart, and ready to grow.