Best Startup Business Ideas to Start with Low Investment

Better Business Plan020 mins

Introduction

Starting a business in Australia doesn’t always require massive capital. Many entrepreneurs are now choosing low-investment startups, which offer flexibility, scalability, and high profitability. With technological advances, home-based businesses, and local niche markets booming, now is the perfect time to launch your startup.

Why Low-Investment Startups Are Ideal:

  • Low Financial Risk: You can test business ideas without a huge capital outlay.
  • Flexibility: Many startups can operate from home or online.
  • Scalability: Start small and expand when demand grows.
  • Growing Markets: Digital services, eco-friendly products, and niche local services are highly sought after.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, small businesses contribute over 50% of employment, and home-based businesses have grown exponentially. Online businesses, subscription services, and eco-friendly products are trending strongly in 2025.

Common Misconceptions About Low-Investment Startups:

  • “You need thousands of dollars to start.” → Many businesses begin under $1,000.
  • “Low investment means low profit.” → Small businesses often yield high ROI if managed strategically.
  • “You must quit your job.” → Many entrepreneurs start part-time to reduce risk.

Top 20 Best Startup Business Ideas to Start with Low Investment

1. Local Subscription Box Service

Starting a local subscription box business is a creative and scalable low-investment idea. Entrepreneurs can curate boxes around themes such as organic snacks, handmade candles, eco-friendly household items, or locally crafted goods. Since customers love the element of surprise and convenience, subscription models build recurring revenue streams. By sourcing products directly from small businesses or artisans, you can keep costs low while supporting the local economy. Marketing these boxes can be done effectively through Instagram reels, influencer unboxings, or TikTok content showcasing the experience of opening each month’s package. Offering flexible subscription options, like monthly or quarterly plans, increases accessibility for different customer budgets. With careful branding, unique packaging, and personalized touches like thank-you notes or seasonal extras, subscription boxes create memorable customer experiences that drive retention. Over time, expanding into niche markets—such as pet lovers, wellness enthusiasts, or coffee drinkers—can boost customer loyalty and long-term profitability.Subscription boxes are highly profitable in Australia. They cater to specific interests such as pet lovers, fitness enthusiasts, or gourmet food lovers.

Step-by-Step Startup Guide:

  1. Identify a Niche: Conduct market research using Google Trends, social media, and competitor analysis.
  2. Source Products: Partner with local suppliers or purchase wholesale products.
  3. Branding & Packaging: Invest in eco-friendly, visually appealing packaging.
  4. Marketing: Use Instagram, Facebook, and influencer marketing to attract subscribers.
  5. Delivery & Logistics: Partner with Australia Post or courier services.

Tips for Success:

  • Offer themed boxes for holidays and special occasions.
  • Include surprise items to increase retention.
  • Start with a small batch to test market interest.

Example: A “Wellness Box” delivering organic teas and bath products to subscribers in Sydney.

Potential Revenue: $1,500–$5,000/month with 100–300 subscribers.

2. Pet Grooming & Mobile Pet Care

Pet ownership is growing steadily in Australia, making affordable pet grooming services a high-demand business opportunity. A mobile grooming service requires minimal upfront investment—mainly clippers, shampoos, brushes, and a small van setup. This model is attractive because it provides convenience for pet owners who prefer at-home or on-the-go grooming rather than visiting a salon. Entrepreneurs can offer tiered services, such as basic washes, fur trims, flea treatments, or nail clipping, allowing customers to choose packages that fit their budget. Building trust with pet owners is crucial, so maintaining a gentle and professional approach helps in securing repeat clients. Marketing can include distributing flyers at local vet clinics, setting up Instagram profiles featuring before-and-after pet transformations, and partnering with pet stores for referral programs. Offering discounts for repeat bookings or group rates for households with multiple pets can further encourage customer loyalty. As the business grows, adding premium services like spa treatments or pet-safe dyeing can increase revenue.

Pets are an integral part of Australian families, creating a consistent demand for grooming, walking, and mobile care services.

Startup Steps:

  1. Obtain necessary certifications in pet care.
  2. Start as a mobile service to reduce overheads.
  3. Market locally via Facebook, Instagram, and community boards.
  4. Offer packages for repeat clients.

Scaling Tips:

  • Hire additional groomers as demand grows.
  • Offer pet training or pet sitting services to increase revenue streams.

Target Market: Busy professionals, families with pets, senior citizens.

Example: A mobile grooming van servicing suburban Melbourne, offering premium pet care.

3. Home Cleaning & Organizing Services

Residential cleaning and decluttering services are always in demand. With increasing awareness of hygiene and minimalism, organizing services are a growing niche.

Startup Essentials:

  • Cleaning supplies and eco-friendly products
  • Transportation
  • Basic advertising via flyers, local Facebook groups, and Google My Business

Tips to Scale:

  • Offer specialized services like carpet cleaning, window washing, or hoarding decluttering.
  • Build a team of part-time cleaners for larger projects.
  • Partner with real estate agents for regular client referrals.

Example: A home organizing business in Brisbane focusing on busy professionals who need help decluttering before moving homes.

4. Digital Marketing for Small Businesses

Australian small businesses increasingly need digital marketing services to compete online. Services include: SEO, social media management, and paid ad campaigns.

Startup Essentials:

  • Laptop, reliable internet, and marketing tools
  • Understanding of SEO, Google Ads, and Facebook Ads
  • Portfolio creation to showcase your skills

Tips for Success:

  • Start by offering services to local businesses to build a portfolio.
  • Specialize in a niche like real estate, health, or e-commerce.
  • Outsource graphic design or content creation if needed.

Example: Offering SEO services to local cafés in Sydney to improve Google ranking and foot traffic.

5. Online Coaching & Consulting

You can monetize expertise in fitness, career development, or business consulting.

Step-by-Step:

  1. Define niche: fitness coaching, career mentoring, business strategy.
  2. Platforms: Zoom, Google Meet, or Teachable for course hosting.
  3. Pricing: Offer packages and subscriptions.
  4. Marketing: Social media, LinkedIn networking, webinars.

Scaling Tips:

  • Create digital products like eBooks or courses.
  • Offer group coaching to increase income.
  • Collaborate with other coaches for joint programs.

Example: A career coach offering virtual sessions to university graduates across Australia.

6. Specialty Coffee Roasting & Delivery

Coffee is a billion-dollar industry in Australia, and locals love supporting small roasters. With low startup costs, you can start roasting beans at home and expand later.

Startup Steps:

  • Purchase small-batch roasting equipment.
  • Partner with local coffee growers/importers.
  • Create a brand with eco-friendly packaging.
  • Build an online ordering system.

Tips for Success:

  • Focus on unique blends or single-origin beans.
  • Offer subscriptions for regular deliveries.
  • Collaborate with cafés for wholesale supply.

Example: A Melbourne-based roaster selling organic beans online with monthly delivery.

7. Virtual Assistant Agency

Many entrepreneurs outsource admin tasks to virtual assistants (VAs).

Startup Steps:

  • Decide services: email management, bookkeeping, scheduling.
  • Create a professional website.
  • Market on LinkedIn, Upwork, or via referrals.

Scaling Tips:

  • Hire multiple VAs and build an agency model.
  • Offer specialized packages (e.g., real estate or e-commerce support).

Example: A VA agency in Sydney handling social media and admin tasks for small businesses.

8. Local Handcrafted Goods Business

Handmade products like candles, jewelry, or home décor sell well on Etsy and local markets.

Startup Steps:

  • Choose a craft you’re skilled in.
  • Source eco-friendly raw materials.
  • Sell via Etsy, Shopify, or weekend markets.

Tips for Success:

  • Emphasize “Made in Australia” branding.
  • Offer custom/personalized products.
  • Partner with gift shops.

Example: A Perth artisan selling handmade candles online and through boutique stores.

9. Personal Chef & Meal Prep Services

Busy professionals often want healthy, home-cooked meals.

Startup Steps:

  • Get food handling certification.
  • Offer customized menus (vegan, keto, gluten-free).
  • Deliver meals weekly or cook in clients’ homes.

Tips for Success:

  • Partner with fitness trainers for referrals.
  • Use Instagram to showcase meals.
  • Offer family or corporate packages.

Example: A Brisbane-based chef providing weekly meal prep for office workers.

10. Elderly Care & Home Assistance

Australia’s ageing population creates high demand for elderly support services.

Startup Steps:

  • Offer non-medical services: companionship, shopping, cleaning.
  • Obtain basic first-aid training.
  • Advertise via community boards and local healthcare centers.

Scaling Tips:

  • Expand into a team-based care service.
  • Partner with NDIS providers.

Example: A home-care helper in Adelaide assisting seniors with daily errands.

11. Car Detailing & Mobile Car Wash

Australians spend heavily on car care.

Startup Steps:

  • Buy portable cleaning equipment.
  • Offer services at customers’ homes or offices.
  • Market via Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace, and Google Maps.

Tips for Success:

  • Specialize in eco-friendly waterless cleaning.
  • Provide monthly membership packages.

Example: A mobile car wash in Sydney CBD serving busy professionals.

12. Online Course Creation & E-Learning

Knowledge-based businesses are booming.

Startup Steps:

  • Pick a subject you’re skilled in (marketing, coding, design).
  • Use Teachable, Udemy, or Kajabi to host.
  • Market courses via YouTube or social media.

Tips for Success:

  • Start with a free mini-course to build trust.
  • Offer bundled courses for discounts.

Example: A Gold Coast designer selling Canva tutorial courses.

13. Local Tour Guide & Experience Business

Tourism remains strong in Australia, with travelers looking for unique experiences.

Startup Steps:

  • Offer niche tours: food walks, eco-hikes, or photography tours.
  • Get local permits if required.
  • List services on Airbnb Experiences.

Tips for Success:

  • Focus on storytelling for immersive tours.
  • Partner with hotels and hostels.

Example: A Sydney street art walking tour targeting backpackers.

14. Eco-Friendly Products & Zero-Waste Stores

Consumers are shifting towards sustainable living.

Startup Steps:

  • Sell eco-friendly products: reusable bags, bamboo cutlery, natural soaps.
  • Open an online Shopify store.
  • Promote through eco-conscious influencers.

Tips for Success:

  • Use sustainable packaging.
  • Offer bulk-buy discounts.

Example: An online zero-waste shop in Melbourne selling reusable kitchen essentials.

15. Subscription-Based Booking System

Businesses need affordable booking platforms for salons, gyms, or freelancers.

Startup Steps:

  • Create a simple SaaS platform or use white-label software.
  • Charge monthly subscriptions.
  • Target small businesses.

Tips for Success:

  • Offer a free trial.
  • Provide integrations with Stripe, PayPal, and Google Calendar.

Example: A booking tool for local yoga studios in Sydney.

16. SaaS: Automated Social Media Management

Small businesses want affordable marketing automation.

Startup Steps:

  • Build a platform that schedules posts, analyzes data, and suggests content.
  • Offer tiered pricing (freelancers, agencies, enterprises).

Tips for Success:

  • Focus on one niche first (cafés, real estate).
  • Add AI-driven content suggestions.

Example: A startup offering $20/month automation tools for small retailers.

17. Freelance Copywriting & Content Writing

Every business needs content.

Startup Steps:

  • Build a portfolio via Medium or LinkedIn.
  • Market on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and ProBlogger.
  • Specialize in SEO blogs, product descriptions, or ad copy.

Tips for Success:

  • Niche down into industries like health, real estate, or tech.
  • Upsell editing and keyword research.

Example: A Melbourne copywriter serving fitness and wellness businesses.

18. Digital Products & Templates

Digital products are among the most profitable low-investment startup ideas because they don’t require physical inventory or shipping costs. Entrepreneurs can create and sell eBooks, online courses, templates, stock photos, or digital planners with very little upfront expense. Platforms like Gumroad, Teachable, and Etsy Digital Downloads make it easy to list and sell to a global audience.

To stand out, focus on solving specific customer pain points. For example, instead of a generic “budget planner,” create a freelancer income tracker or a meal planner for busy parents. Niche targeting increases perceived value and helps in SEO optimization. Another key to success is repurposing content—a blog series can become an eBook, or a webinar recording can be turned into a mini-course.

Digital products also provide the advantage of scalability: once created, they can be sold infinitely with minimal extra effort, making them an ideal passive income source.

Selling downloadable items (planners, resume templates, stock photos) is passive income.

Startup Steps:

  • Create products using Canva, Photoshop, or Notion.
  • Sell on Etsy, Gumroad, or your own website.
  • Market via Pinterest and Instagram.

Tips for Success:

  • Bundle products for higher sales.
  • Optimize Etsy listings with keywords.

Example: A Perth-based designer selling wedding invitation templates online.

19. Remote IT Support & Tech Consulting

With more remote work, small businesses need affordable tech support.

Startup Steps:

  • Offer troubleshooting, software setup, or cybersecurity advice.
  • Market on LinkedIn and local business forums.
  • Charge per hour or subscription.

Tips for Success:

  • Specialize in a popular niche (Microsoft 365, Shopify).
  • Provide 24/7 support options.

Example: A Brisbane IT consultant offering remote troubleshooting for SMEs.

20. Print-on-Demand Business

Print-on-demand (POD) allows startups to sell custom-designed merchandise without maintaining inventory. Entrepreneurs upload designs onto products like t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, or tote bags using platforms such as Printful, Redbubble, or Teespring. When a customer places an order, the product is printed and shipped directly by the supplier, eliminating upfront costs.

To succeed, focus on unique and niche designs. For example, instead of generic motivational quotes, target micro-niches like dog lovers, eco-conscious consumers, or Australian slang-based designs. Using trending memes or cultural references can also drive viral sales.

Marketing plays a big role in POD success—leveraging social media ads, Instagram influencers, or TikTok videos can quickly build brand awareness. Combining POD with Etsy or Shopify stores also allows better branding and higher profit margins.

This business model is attractive because it requires low capital, zero inventory risk, and high creative freedom, making it perfect for first-time entrepreneurs.

This allows you to design and sell t-shirts, mugs, or tote bags with no inventory.

Startup Steps:

  • Create designs on Canva or Photoshop.
  • Use POD platforms like Printful or Redbubble.
  • Market via Instagram, TikTok, or Etsy.

Tips for Success:

  • Target niche audiences (dog lovers, gamers, fitness fans).
  • Offer limited editions for exclusivity.

Example: An online store selling Aussie-themed apparel to global markets.

How to Choose the Right Low-Investment Startup

Choosing the right business is one of the most important steps in your entrepreneurial journey. A low-investment startup reduces financial risk, but success still depends on careful planning and decision-making. Here’s how to select a business idea that matches your goals and has the potential to grow:

1. Assess Skills & Interests

Your skills, hobbies, and experiences play a huge role in determining the right fit. For example, if you’re good at baking, a home-based bakery may be a natural choice. Passion also drives resilience—when challenges arise, you’re more likely to stay motivated if you enjoy what you do. Make a list of your strengths and interests, then brainstorm businesses that align with them.

2. Market Research

Even the best idea fails without demand. Research whether people are willing to pay for your product or service. Use Google Trends to analyze search popularity, conduct surveys in your community, and post polls on social media. For example, if many locals ask for healthy meal delivery options, that may be a sign of a profitable opportunity.

3. Investment & Budgeting

Set a clear budget from the beginning. Many low-investment businesses in Australia—like cleaning services, digital freelancing, or online coaching—can be started with under AUD $1,000. Focus on lean operations and reinvest profits into growth rather than overspending on unnecessary tools or branding in the early stages.

4. Competition Analysis

Study your competitors. What are they doing well, and where are they falling short? For example, if local dog walkers charge high fees but provide limited flexibility, you could offer more affordable packages or app-based scheduling to stand out.

5. Scalability Potential

Think long-term. Can your business grow from part-time to full-time, or from local to national? Scalable models—like e-commerce or digital services—offer greater growth compared to niche, one-time services.

6. Legal & Compliance

Don’t overlook the legal side. In Australia, you may need to register an ABN (Australian Business Number), obtain insurance, or follow food-handling regulations if you’re in catering. Ensuring compliance avoids penalties and builds trust with customers.

Pro Tips for Getting Started

  • Start part-time to test the waters without quitting your job.
  • Use free or low-cost tools like Canva for design, Trello for project management, or Shopify’s basic plan for e-commerce.
  • Build an online presence from day one—even a simple website or social media profile boosts credibility.

By aligning passion with market demand, budgeting wisely, and planning for scalability, you’ll position your startup for long-term success while keeping risks minimal.

Marketing Strategies for Low-Investment Startups

Marketing is critical to attract customers and grow revenue, especially when you’re working with a small budget. For low-investment startups in Australia, creativity, consistency, and leveraging free or low-cost digital tools can make all the difference. By choosing strategies that maximize visibility without overspending, you can compete effectively even against larger players.

1. Social Media Marketing

Social media is one of the most cost-effective ways to build brand awareness. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and LinkedIn allow startups to engage directly with target audiences. Posting short-form content such as reels, stories, and behind-the-scenes clips creates authenticity and builds trust. You can also run small-scale contests or giveaways to boost reach. Analytics tools on these platforms help track engagement, ensuring you understand which posts perform best. The key is consistency—posting at least three to four times per week keeps your audience engaged and familiar with your brand.

2. Email Marketing & Newsletters

Email marketing remains one of the most cost-effective ways for startups in Australia to build strong customer relationships. Even with free or low-cost tools like Mailchimp or Sendinblue, small businesses can begin by creating a simple signup form on their website or social media pages. Over time, this list becomes a valuable asset that allows direct communication with your audience—something social platforms can’t always guarantee.

Startups can send regular newsletters containing tips, industry insights, product updates, or exclusive promotions. Personalized subject lines and segmenting the audience (e.g., by location, purchase behavior, or interests) can significantly increase open rates. For instance, a digital product startup could send educational tips along with a subtle call-to-action to try their latest course or template.

It’s important to maintain consistency—weekly or bi-weekly newsletters work best for keeping your business top of mind. Avoid overwhelming subscribers with too many emails; instead, focus on delivering value that solves customer pain points. Including clear CTAs, links back to your website, and social sharing buttons can further boost engagement. Finally, track analytics such as open rates, click-throughs, and conversions to optimize future campaigns.

3. SEO & Content Marketing

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and content marketing are long-term growth strategies that allow startups to gain visibility without heavy advertising spend. By targeting long-tail keywords relevant to your industry, even low-investment businesses can compete with larger players. For example, a local handmade crafts business could optimize for “affordable handmade gifts in Sydney” instead of broad terms like “handmade gifts.”

Content marketing goes hand in hand with SEO. Startups can publish blog posts, how-to guides, customer success stories, or case studies that align with the audience’s needs. Optimizing each post with keyword-rich headings, meta tags, and internal links ensures higher chances of ranking in search engines. Beyond blogs, repurposing content into infographics, videos, or social media snippets helps extend its reach.

Guest posting on relevant Australian websites or industry-specific blogs can also boost domain authority and drive referral traffic. Pairing this with basic local SEO practices—like claiming a Google Business Profile and collecting positive reviews—further enhances visibility for service-based startups.

The key is consistency: SEO takes time, but publishing valuable, optimized content regularly builds brand credibility and attracts organic traffic that keeps converting long after initial publication.

4. Collaborations & Local Partnerships

Networking with other businesses can amplify your reach. Consider partnering with complementary businesses for cross-promotions or bundled offers—for example, a café could collaborate with a local bakery. Participating in community events, markets, or networking meetups can also generate exposure at little cost. These grassroots efforts help startups gain trust in their local markets and grow customer bases organically.

Tools to Use: Canva for graphics, Mailchimp for email campaigns, Google Analytics for tracking website performance, and Buffer for scheduling social media posts.

By strategically using these low-cost methods, startups can build strong brand awareness, attract steady leads, and scale sustainably without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts

Starting a low-investment startup in Australia can be one of the most rewarding paths for aspiring entrepreneurs. Unlike traditional businesses that require significant upfront capital, low-investment ventures allow you to test ideas, reduce risk, and build a foundation for long-term growth. From home-based businesses like online consulting or e-commerce to digital-first services such as content creation, marketing, or app-based solutions, the opportunities are diverse and adaptable to modern consumer demands.

The key to success lies in starting small, validating your idea, and scaling strategically. By launching a lean version of your business, you can gauge customer interest, refine your offering, and avoid unnecessary financial pressure. Once you identify demand, reinvest profits to expand operations, improve systems, and attract a wider customer base.

Equally important is the focus on customer needs and relationship-building. Low-investment startups thrive when they provide exceptional service, personalized experiences, and consistent value. Happy customers are more likely to return and recommend your business to others—helping you grow organically without high marketing costs.

Speaking of marketing, low-cost strategies such as social media campaigns, email newsletters, and SEO-focused blogging are powerful tools. They allow startups to compete with larger players by creating an authentic online presence that builds trust and authority. Leveraging free or affordable tools like Canva, Mailchimp, and Google Analytics makes it easier to track results and optimize efforts.

Finally, remember that entrepreneurship is a continuous learning journey. Regularly review performance, adapt to changing trends, and stay updated on compliance requirements in Australia.

Key Takeaways

  • Start small, validate, then scale.
  • Prioritize customer relationships.
  • Use cost-effective marketing.
  • Track and refine strategies.

For further resources, explore:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best business to start in Australia with low investment in 2025?

The best business depends on your skills and location. However, top choices in 2025 include online tutoring, dropshipping, freelance digital marketing, and home-based food businesses. These require less than AUD 5,000 to start and can scale quickly with the right marketing.

2. How much money do I need to start a small business in Australia?

Most low-investment businesses in Australia can be started with AUD 1,000–10,000. For example:

  • Freelancing or tutoring: under AUD 1,000 (mainly for tools and marketing).
  • Dropshipping or print-on-demand: AUD 2,000–5,000.
  • Food truck or cleaning services: AUD 5,000–10,000.
     Always budget extra for ABN registration, licenses, insurance, and marketing.

3. Do I need a license to start a small business in Australia?

Yes, most businesses require an Australian Business Number (ABN), and some industries need specific permits:

  • Food businesses → Food handling license.
  • Cleaning services → Public liability insurance.
  • Pet grooming → Council approvals (depending on location).
     Always check Business.gov.au for your state’s requirements.

4. Which business is most profitable in Australia right now?

The most profitable low-cost startups in 2025 are:

  • Digital services (web design, social media management, content writing).
  • Health & wellness businesses (fitness coaching, healthy meal prep).
  • Eco-friendly businesses (reusable products, sustainable cleaning).
     Profitability increases if you focus on recurring revenue models like subscription boxes or online courses.

5. Can I start a business in Australia without quitting my job?

Yes! Many side hustles such as freelancing, tutoring, blogging, or print-on-demand can be started part-time. You can grow the business gradually and only switch to full-time once your revenue becomes stable.

6. What is the easiest business to start in Australia?

The easiest businesses are those with low setup costs and minimal regulations, such as:

  • Freelancing (writing, graphic design, coding).
  • Online coaching or tutoring.
  • Affiliate marketing or blogging.
     These require mostly time and skill, rather than heavy financial investment.

7. How can I grow my small business quickly in Australia?

To scale fast:

  • Build a strong online presence (website + social media).
  • Leverage Google Ads or Meta Ads for quick customer acquisition.
  • Offer referral discounts to get word-of-mouth traction.
  • Partner with other small businesses in your area for cross-promotion.