Independent Contractor

Independent Contractors operate their own small business and contract their services out to other businesses. They include construction workers, trades people, business professionals, freelancers, and industry consultants.

As an Independent Contractor you’ll be hired by businesses or individuals who require your advice, skills and services. At the same time you’ll need to market your business, issue invoices, keep bookkeeping records, and submit returns to the Australian Taxation Office.

Future demand Medium
Average yearly income $80,600
Skill level Unknown

How do I become a independent contractor?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
BSB50120

Diploma of Business
Blended, Online
12 months
$0 - $6,318
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Office Manager Project Coordinator Small Business Owner
Cafe or Restaurant Manager Franchisee Independent Contractor Governance Coordinator Scheduler Business Support Officer Regional Manager
+ 7 more
BSB50120

Diploma of Business (Business Development)
Online
12 months
$0 - $4,050
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Franchisee Independent Contractor Operations Manager
Project Coordinator Small Business Owner Business Development Manager
+ 3 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Franchisee Independent Contractor Operations Manager Project Coordinator Small Business Owner Business Development Manager + 3 more
BSB40320

Certificate IV in Entrepreneurship and New Business
Online
10 - 12 months
$0 - $3,795
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Cafe or Restaurant Manager Department Manager Franchisee
Independent Contractor Office Manager Retail Manager Retail Supervisor Retail Team Leader Small Business Owner Store Manager Corporate Services Manager
+ 8 more
BSB30220

Certificate III in Entrepreneurship and New Business
Online
6 months
Unavailable
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Cafe or Restaurant Manager Small Business Owner Franchisee
Independent Contractor
+ 1 more
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Cafe or Restaurant Manager Small Business Owner Franchisee Independent Contractor + 1 more
BSB50120

Diploma of Business (Operations)
Blended, Online
12 months
$0 - $3,595
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Cafe or Restaurant Manager Franchisee Independent Contractor
Office Manager Project Coordinator Small Business Owner Operations Manager Operations Coordinator Area Manager Business Support Officer
+ 7 more
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

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Avg yearly income $78,000
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Franchisee

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Avg yearly income $93,600
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Entrepreneur

An Entrepreneur runs a business or social enterprise, turning unique ideas into profit while managing operations and building a customer base.

Avg yearly income $78,000
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Creative Entrepreneur

A Creative Entrepreneur develops innovative ideas in creative industries, managing projects and identifying market opportunities.

Avg yearly income $78,000
Skill level Unknown

Common questions

How much do Independent Contractors earn?

As a Independent Contractor you’ll pay yourself a salary from the business profits. Salaries vary according to industry and business profitability, but $1,550 per week ($80,600 annual salary) before tax is a realistic wage for Independent Contractors at this time.

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

What are the job opportunities for Independent Contractors?

The 2016 census recorded more than 1 million independent contractors in Australia. More than 30% of Independent Contractors work in the construction industry, but many work in professional, scientific, and technical services.

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics

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Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

How do I become a Independent Contractor?

Independent Contractors need skills and qualifications specific to their industry or employment sector, but you’ll also need business and administration skills. We recommend the Certificate IV in Small Business Management.

Author Image
Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

Further reading

Top 3 tips for freelancing

2nd October 2019

Career Spotlight: Accounting and Taxation Professionals

9th October 2019

Choosing a security licence course in Australia: A step-by-step guide for jobseekers

29th August 2024

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