Looking for ways to get some extra cash in your pocket, and fast? You’re not alone. With the cost of living going up, lots of Aussies are turning to side hustles to boost their income. The good news is, there are plenty of options out there that can pay you daily. We’re talking about side hustles that pay daily, so you can see the money come in quickly. Let’s check out some of the best ones for 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Many Australians are using side hustles to earn extra cash, especially with rising costs.
- Several side hustles offer the chance to get paid daily, providing quick access to your earnings.
- Consider your skills and interests when choosing a side hustle; many can be started with low investment.
- Flexibility is a big plus, allowing you to set your own hours around your main job or other commitments.
- Remember to check payment terms and be wary of anything that sounds too good to be true when signing up for gigs.
1. Food Delivery
Got a car, bike, or even a scooter? You can make some decent cash pretty quickly by delivering food for places like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Menulog. It’s a pretty straightforward gig, honestly. You sign up, get approved, and then you can start picking up orders whenever you’ve got a spare hour or two.
The best part is you’re your own boss and can choose when you want to work. This means you can fit it in around your main job, study, or whatever else you’ve got going on. Some people even find they earn more during peak times like lunch and dinner rushes, or on busy weekends.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might need and expect:
- Transport: A reliable car, scooter, or even a pushbike will do, depending on the area you’re working in.
- Phone: You’ll need a smartphone with a decent data plan to run the delivery apps.
- License & Registration: Make sure your driver’s licence, vehicle registration, and insurance are all up-to-date.
- Earning Potential: This can really vary, but people often report earning anywhere from $20 to $40 an hour, especially when you factor in tips. Busy periods and popular areas usually mean more money.
It’s not just about the money, though. You get to explore different parts of your town or city, discover new eateries, and get a bit of exercise if you’re on a bike. Plus, you’re helping people get their favourite meals without leaving their homes, which is pretty handy for them.
2. Housecleaning and Home Maintenance
If you’ve got a knack for tidying up and making spaces shine, housecleaning and general home maintenance could be your go-to side hustle. Lots of people are just too busy, or frankly, don’t enjoy spending their weekends scrubbing toilets or fixing leaky taps. That’s where you come in.
You can earn a decent hourly rate, often between $30-$50, depending on the job and your experience. It’s not just about dusting and vacuuming, either. Think about offering services like:
- Deep cleaning for end-of-lease situations
- Regular weekly or fortnightly cleans for busy families
- Decluttering and organising services for those overwhelmed by mess
- Basic handyman tasks like changing light bulbs, assembling flat-pack furniture, or fixing minor plumbing issues.
Getting started is pretty straightforward. You’ll likely need some basic cleaning supplies, and for handyman jobs, a few common tools. Word-of-mouth is powerful in this game, so let friends and family know you’re available. You can also advertise on local community Facebook groups or platforms like Airtasker.
Many people are happy to pay for a reliable service that takes a chore off their plate. Consistency and a good attitude go a long way in building a regular client base. Plus, you get to see the immediate results of your work, which can be pretty satisfying.
For those handy with tools, offering basic home maintenance can be a real lifesaver for homeowners. This could include tasks like:
- Fixing dripping taps or running toilets.
- Assembling flat-pack furniture.
- Hanging pictures or shelves.
- Changing light bulbs or smoke detector batteries.
These smaller jobs often get put off, but they add up, and people are willing to pay to have them sorted quickly. It’s a practical way to earn cash without needing a huge setup.
3. Tutoring
Got a knack for explaining tricky concepts? Tutoring is a solid way to make some quick cash, especially if you’ve got a good grasp on subjects that students are struggling with. Think about high school subjects like Maths, Science, or English – there’s always demand there. Even university students sometimes need a hand with specific courses.
You can set your own rates, and they can add up pretty fast. The hourly rates can vary a fair bit depending on what you’re teaching and your experience, but you’re generally looking at anywhere from $40 to $90 an hour. Some tutors even charge more for specialised subjects or for helping students prepare for big exams.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might earn:
| Subject Area | Potential Hourly Rate (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Primary School | $35 – $50 |
| High School (General) | $40 – $60 |
| High School (Specialised/Exam Prep) | $50 – $90+ |
| University | $50 – $100+ |
Getting started is pretty straightforward. You can advertise your services locally, put up flyers at schools or community centres, or sign up for online tutoring platforms. These platforms often handle the client matching and payments, making things easier. You can tutor online via video calls, which gives you heaps of flexibility, or meet students in person if that works better for you and them. It’s a great way to reinforce your own knowledge while helping others out.
Tutoring isn’t just about making money; it’s also about building confidence – both yours and your students’. Seeing a student finally ‘get it’ after you’ve explained something a few different ways is pretty rewarding. Plus, you’re honing your communication skills, which is handy for pretty much anything you do later on.
4. Dog Walking
If you’re an animal lover and enjoy being outdoors, dog walking could be your perfect side hustle. Australia has a huge number of dog owners, so there’s definitely a market for people willing to give their furry friends a good stroll. It’s a pretty straightforward gig – you take someone’s dog out for a walk, usually for about 30 to 60 minutes. You get paid, and the dog gets some exercise and a break from being cooped up.
This is a fantastic way to earn some extra cash while staying active and getting fresh air. It doesn’t require a lot of fancy equipment, just a reliable lead, some poop bags, and a genuine love for dogs. Plus, you can often set your own hours, making it super flexible around other commitments.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you might expect:
- Earning Potential: Generally, you can expect to earn anywhere from $15 to $30 for a 30-45 minute walk. This can go up if you’re walking multiple dogs at once or if you’re in an area with high demand.
- What You Need: Reliability is key. You’ll also need to know basic dog safety and handling skills. Some owners might ask for references or proof of a Working With Children Check, especially if you’re also offering pet sitting.
- Getting Started: You can advertise your services locally, put up flyers in pet-friendly areas, or sign up with apps like Rover. Building a good reputation with happy clients and well-exercised dogs is the best way to get repeat business.
Remember, you’re responsible for the dog’s safety and well-being while they’re in your care. Being aware of your surroundings and knowing how to handle different dog personalities is important. It’s not just about walking; it’s about providing a positive experience for both the dog and the owner.
5. Babysitting
Babysitting is a classic for a reason, and it’s still a solid way to earn cash quickly here in Australia. Parents are always on the lookout for reliable people to look after their kids, especially during those busy evenings or weekends when they want a bit of adult time. It’s a gig that requires responsibility, patience, and a genuine enjoyment of spending time with children.
Getting started is pretty straightforward. You’ll want to think about what age groups you’re comfortable with and what your availability looks like. Some families might need someone for a few hours on a Friday night, while others might need a regular sitter for a couple of afternoons a week. It’s a good idea to have a few references ready, and depending on the state or territory, you might need a Working With Children Check (WWCC). It’s not a huge hassle, and it gives parents peace of mind.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might earn:
| Age of Children | Hourly Rate (Approx. AUD) |
|---|---|
| Toddlers (1-3 years) | $25 – $35 |
| Primary School (4-10 years) | $22 – $32 |
| Teenagers (11+ years) | $20 – $30 |
Rates can go up depending on experience, number of children, and specific duties like preparing meals or helping with homework.
Think about advertising your services. You could let friends and family know you’re available, put up a notice at local community centres or cafes, or even join online parent groups. Building a good reputation is key – happy parents often become repeat clients and will recommend you to their mates.
Babysitting isn’t just about watching kids; it’s about creating a safe and fun environment for them while giving parents a break. Being punctual, communicative, and showing genuine care goes a long way in securing regular work and good pay.
6. Gardening and Lawn Care
Got a bit of a green thumb? Or maybe you just don’t mind getting your hands dirty? Offering gardening and lawn care services can be a pretty solid way to earn some extra cash, especially if you’ve got the gear already. People are always looking for a hand with mowing the lawn, trimming the hedges, or just general tidying up of their yards. It’s the kind of work that’s usually in demand, particularly in areas with lots of houses and decent-sized gardens.
You can make a decent hourly rate doing this, often between $40 and $70 an hour, depending on what you’re doing and where you are. It’s not usually a huge startup cost either, mostly just needing some decent tools. Plus, you can often get repeat business from clients who want their lawns mowed every couple of weeks or their gardens tended to regularly.
Here’s a quick rundown of what you might offer:
- Lawn mowing and edging
- Hedge trimming and pruning
- Weeding and general garden tidying
- Planting flowers or small shrubs
- Raking leaves and clearing garden waste
It’s a good gig if you like being outdoors and don’t mind a bit of physical work. You can set your own hours, often working weekends or after your main job, which makes it pretty flexible.
This kind of work is great because it’s pretty straightforward. You show up, do the job, and get paid. There’s not a lot of complicated back-and-forth, and most people are happy to see their yard looking neat and tidy. It’s a simple service that makes a visible difference.
If you’ve got a ride-on mower or some more specialised gardening equipment, you could even look at offering more involved services like basic landscaping or preparing garden beds for planting. Just make sure you’ve got a way to transport any tools or green waste you might collect.
7. Freelancing on Airtasker
Airtasker is a fantastic platform if you’ve got practical skills or just enjoy helping people out with everyday tasks. Think of it as a digital marketplace where people post jobs they need done, and you can offer your services to complete them. It’s super flexible, meaning you can pick and choose the jobs that fit your schedule and your abilities. Whether you’re handy with a hammer, good at cleaning, or can assemble flat-pack furniture like a pro, there’s likely a task for you.
Getting started is pretty straightforward. You’ll need to download the app or head to their website and create a profile. Make sure to list all the skills you have and maybe even add a few photos of past work if you have them. Then, you can start browsing available tasks in your area and making offers. The key is to be competitive with your pricing and clear about what you can do.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might earn:
| Task Type | Potential Hourly Rate (AUD) |
|---|---|
| General Handyman | $30 – $70 |
| Cleaning Services | $25 – $50 |
| Furniture Assembly | $35 – $65 |
| Gardening & Lawn Care | $30 – $60 |
| Event Help / Odd Jobs | $20 – $45 |
Keep in mind that Airtasker does take a service fee from each completed job, usually between 12.5% and 20%, so factor that into your pricing. It’s a great way to earn cash quickly, especially if you’re looking to fill in gaps in your week or on weekends. Plus, the more jobs you complete and the better your reviews, the more likely you are to get hired for future tasks.
To really make the most of Airtasker, focus on building a good reputation. Respond quickly to job postings, communicate clearly with clients, and always aim to do a top-notch job. Positive reviews are gold and will help you land more gigs down the line. It’s also worth considering what makes you stand out from other Taskers – maybe it’s your punctuality, your attention to detail, or a specific skill you offer.
8. Photography and Visual Storytelling
Got a knack for capturing moments or telling stories through images? Photography and visual storytelling can be a surprisingly flexible way to earn some extra cash, especially if you’ve already got some gear.
Think about what kind of photos people need. Businesses often look for product shots that make their items look good, or lifestyle photos that show people using their services. Individuals might want portraits for special occasions, or maybe even some cool shots of their pets. You can also get into event photography – think local markets, small parties, or even sporting events on the weekend. The key is to build a portfolio that shows off your best work and what you can do.
Here are a few ways to get paid:
- Event Photography: Covering local markets, community gatherings, or small private parties.
- Product Photography: Taking appealing photos of items for online stores or catalogues.
- Portrait Sessions: Family photos, headshots for professionals, or even pet portraits.
- Stock Photography: Selling your images to websites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock.
- Print Sales: Offering prints of your best landscape or artistic shots at local markets or online.
Your earning potential can really vary. For a basic photoshoot, you might charge anywhere from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on your experience and what’s included. Selling stock photos might start small, maybe just a few cents per image, but it can add up over time if you have a lot of popular shots. Offering editing services or creating short video clips for social media can also boost your income.
Getting started doesn’t always mean buying the most expensive gear. Often, a good eye and understanding light are more important than the camera itself. Start with what you have, practice, and build up your skills and your client base gradually. Word-of-mouth referrals are gold in this game.
9. Reselling: Clothes, Furniture, and Other Items
Got a knack for spotting a bargain or a hidden gem? Reselling is a fantastic way to make some quick cash, and you can start with stuff you already own. Think about those clothes you never wear, furniture gathering dust, or even bits and bobs you’ve picked up over the years. Turning pre-loved items into profit is easier than you might think.
There are heaps of places to sell your goods. Online platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace are super popular for everything from vintage threads to old couches. If you’re into fashion, apps like Depop are great for clothes. For furniture, especially if it’s a bit bigger, Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree often work well. You can even explore niche markets if you find something specific people are looking for.
Here’s a rough idea of how you might approach it:
- Source your items: Start with your own clutter, then hit up op-shops, garage sales, or even ask friends if they have anything they want to get rid of.
- Clean and prep: Give your items a good clean. For furniture, a quick polish or a fresh coat of paint can make a huge difference.
- Take good photos: Good lighting and clear shots are key. Show off the item from different angles.
- Write a clear description: Be honest about the condition and include all the important details like size, brand, and any flaws.
- Set a fair price: Do a bit of research to see what similar items are selling for. You want to make a profit, but also make it appealing to buyers.
- List and sell: Post your items on your chosen platform and be ready to answer questions and arrange pick-up or postage.
Some people even make a good living by reselling furniture returns. Companies like Sharetown connect you with items that customers have sent back, and you clean them up, photograph them, and list them for resale. It’s a bit of a unique approach, but it can be quite profitable if you have the space and a suitable vehicle. Exploring second-hand markets is a smart move for earning extra cash.
The beauty of reselling is its flexibility. You can do it as much or as little as you want, fitting it around your schedule. It’s a great way to declutter your home while also boosting your bank account. Just remember to be realistic about what things are worth and how much effort you want to put in.
10. Mobile Car Detailing
Got a knack for making cars look spick and span? Mobile car detailing could be your go-to side hustle for earning cash fast. You’re basically taking a car wash and a mini-makeover service right to the customer’s doorstep, whether that’s their home or their work. Think washing, waxing, vacuuming interiors, and even getting rid of those lingering smells. It’s a service people are often willing to pay for, especially if they’re short on time.
The beauty of this gig is its flexibility and relatively low startup costs. You don’t need a fancy shop; just your own gear and a reliable vehicle to get around. Plus, you can set your own hours, making it easy to fit around your main job or other commitments.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might offer:
- Exterior Wash & Wax: A good scrub, rinse, and a protective wax layer to make the paintwork shine and stay cleaner for longer.
- Interior Vacuum & Wipe Down: Getting into all the nooks and crannies, vacuuming seats and carpets, and wiping down surfaces.
- Window Cleaning: Streak-free windows inside and out make a big difference.
- Tyre Shine: A simple touch that makes the whole car look more polished.
Pricing can vary a lot depending on the size of the car and the services you include. A basic exterior wash might start around $50-$70 for a small car, while a full interior and exterior detail could easily fetch $150-$250 or more for larger vehicles or SUVs. You could potentially earn anywhere from $500 to $1500+ per week if you’re busy and charge competitive rates.
Getting started involves gathering your cleaning supplies – good quality soaps, waxes, microfibre cloths, a vacuum, and maybe some interior protectants. Marketing yourself is key; think local Facebook groups, flyers in neighbourhood mailboxes, or even just word-of-mouth. Happy customers often become repeat customers, which is great for steady income.
Wrapping Up Your Side Hustle Journey
So, there you have it – a bunch of ways to get some extra cash coming in, fast. Whether you’re keen to get your hands dirty with some gardening, put your brain to work with online freelancing, or just deliver some food, there’s definitely something here for everyone in Australia. Remember, it’s not just about the money, though that’s a big part of it. It’s about having a bit more control over your finances and maybe even finding something you actually enjoy doing in your spare time. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for dodgy offers, and always check things out before you commit. Now, go on and give one of these a crack – you might surprise yourself with what you can achieve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I really make with a side hustle in Australia?
Most Aussies pocket between $100 and $1,000 each month from their side gigs. It really depends on how much time you put in, what skills you use, and how many people want what you’re offering. Things like freelance work, tutoring, or giving advice often pay between $30 and $100 an hour. Selling digital stuff or creating content might start slower, but it can grow a lot over time.
Do I have to tell the tax office about my side hustle money?
Yep, you sure do! Any extra cash you earn from a side hustle needs to be declared when you do your taxes, even if it’s just a bit here and there or paid in cash. It might mean you pay a bit more tax, but you can usually claim back costs for things like tools, software, or even a bit of your internet if you use it for your side gig.
Do I need a special business number (ABN) for my side hustle?
You’ll generally need an ABN if you’re running your side hustle like a proper business, sending out invoices, or earning money regularly. You’ll also need one if you’re going to charge GST. If you’re just doing the odd job here and there, it might not be a must-have, but having an ABN can make tax time much easier.
What’s the best way to make an extra $100 in a day in Australia?
Making $100 a day is totally doable with flexible jobs like tasks on Airtasker, delivering food, tutoring, or doing some freelance work online. The trick is to be consistent – try to set aside a few hours each day or aim for the busier weekend jobs. That way, you’ll hit your $100 goal regularly.
Are side hustles still worth it in Australia in 2026?
For lots of Australians, side hustles are a great way to deal with the rising cost of living, pay off debts quicker, and save up faster. The key is picking a side hustle that fits your life, doesn’t set unrealistic earning goals, and helps you reach your money aims without adding too much stress.
What are some side hustles that don’t need much money to start?
You can get started with food delivery, signing up for tasks on Airtasker, or even renting out things you don’t use much. Many of these just need a reliable phone, maybe a bike or car, and your willingness to do the job. You can also try selling things you no longer need online.
