Start a Profitable House Cleaning Side Hustle in Australia-Your Ultimate 2025 Guide!

House Cleaning Side Hustle in Australia is booming, with over 85,000 monthly searches for cleaning services. If you’re looking to tap into this high-demand market and start your own side hustle, this guide breaks down every step-from legal setup to pricing, marketing, and client management-tailored specifically for Australian cities.

1. Define Your Cleaning Services

Before you buy supplies or print business cards, decide what cleaning services you’ll offer. Will you focus on regular house cleaning, deep cleans, end-of-lease, or specialty services like carpet or window cleaning? Specialising in a few core services can help you stand out and charge higher rates, rather than trying to be a generalist with expensive equipment and broad offerings.

Tip: Research your local area’s needs. Urban areas often demand end-of-lease and apartment cleaning, while suburbs may need regular home cleaning or spring cleans.

2. Choose Your Business Structure

Your business structure affects your taxes, legal responsibilities, and costs. Most solo cleaners start as sole traders, but you can also consider partnerships or forming a company if you plan to expand.

• Sole Trader: Easiest to set up and manage; you keep all profits but are personally liable for debts.
• Partnership: Good if starting with a friend or family member.
• Company: More complex, but offers liability protection.

Consult an accountant or legal adviser to find the best fit for your goals and risk tolerance.

3. Register for an ABN and Business Name

You must have an Australian Business Number (ABN) to legally operate, invoice clients, and register for GST if your turnover exceeds $75,000. Registering is quick and can be done online. You’ll also need a business name if you want something other than your own name on invoices and marketing.

Quick Steps:

• Apply for your ABN online (usually approved within minutes).
• Register your business name with ASIC if trading under a different name.
• Open a separate business bank account for cleaner bookkeeping.

4. Get the Right Insurance

Cleaning comes with risks-accidents, property damage, or injury can happen on the job. Protect yourself and your business with essential insurances:

• Public Liability Insurance: Covers injury or property damage to third parties-absolutely crucial for cleaners.
• Property Insurance: Protects your equipment and supplies from theft, fire, or damage.
• Workers’ Compensation: Mandatory if you hire staff, covering workplace injuries.

Shop around for quotes to get the best deal and coverage for your needs.

5. Invest in Quality Equipment

For residential cleaning, start-up costs are low-think high-grade cleaning products, microfibre cloths, mops, and a good vacuum. If you’re targeting commercial clients, invest in professional-grade equipment to deliver consistent, high-quality results and win repeat business1.

Pro Tip: Keep receipts for all purchases for tax deductions.

Also Read: Is Life All About the Money? | Secrete Of True Happiness Beyond Wealth

6. Set Your Pricing Strategy

Pricing can make or break your business. In Australia, house cleaning rates typically range from $35 to $90 per hour, depending on your city, the type of service, and your experience. There are several ways to charge:

• Hourly Rate: Most common; easy for clients to understand.
• Per Room: Good for standard cleans in homes of similar size.
• Flat Fee: Ideal for packages (e.g., end-of-lease cleans).
• Square Footage: Useful for large or commercial properties.

Research local competitors to ensure your rates are competitive. Remember to factor in travel, supplies, insurance, and taxes when calculating your costs.

7. Market Your Cleaning Services

Getting your first clients is often the hardest part. Use a mix of online and offline strategies:

• Social Media: Create business pages on Facebook and Instagram. Join local community and buy/sell groups to post your services.
• Online Listings: List your business on Airtasker, Gumtree, Hipages, and Oneflare.
• Flyers & Posters: Distribute in local cafes, shops, and community centers.
• Google My Business: Set up your profile for local search visibility.
• Email Marketing: Collect emails from inquiries and send monthly updates or special offers.

Encourage happy clients to leave reviews-positive testimonials are powerful social proof for House Cleaning Side Hustle in Australia.

8. Manage Clients Like a Pro

Great client management leads to repeat business and referrals:

• Clear Communication: Confirm bookings, arrival times, and any special requests in writing.
• Consistent Quality: Use checklists for each job to ensure nothing is missed.
• Flexible Payment Options: Accept cash, bank transfer, or mobile payments.
• Handle Feedback Professionally: Respond to complaints promptly and offer solutions.

9. Grow and Scale Your Side Hustle

Once you have steady clients, consider expanding:

• Hire casual staff for busy periods.
• Offer additional services (e.g., carpet cleaning, window washing).
• Invest in training or certifications for specialty cleaning.

Conclusion

Starting a house cleaning side hustle in Australia is one of the most accessible and profitable ways to become your own boss. By following these steps-defining your services, setting up legally, getting insured, pricing smartly, and marketing effectively-you can build a thriving business that fits your lifestyle and financial goals.

Ready to grab your share of Australia’s cleaning boom? Start today and turn your hustle into a success story!

FAQ – House Cleaning Side Hustle in Australia