Looking for ways to earn money in Melbourne? You’re not alone. Lots of people are keen to find a bit of extra cash, whether it’s for saving up for something special, paying off debt, or just having a bit more breathing room. In 2026, there are heaps of options available, from driving folks around to selling your handmade crafts. We’ve put together a list to help you figure out what might work best for you.
Key Takeaways
- Driving for rideshare apps like Uber and Didi is a popular way to earn money in Melbourne, with potential earnings around $28 per hour.
- Food delivery services such as Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Menulog offer flexibility, allowing you to earn money on your own schedule.
- Platforms like Airtasker connect you with people needing help for various tasks, from assembling furniture to small online jobs.
- Renting out your car through services like Car Next Door can provide a steady income by utilising your vehicle when you’re not using it.
- Selling items online through Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace is a straightforward way to declutter and make some extra cash.
1. Uber
So, you’ve got a car and some free time in Melbourne? Driving for Uber is a pretty straightforward way to make some extra cash. It’s not exactly rocket science, but it does mean you’ll be spending a fair bit of time behind the wheel, ferrying people around the city.
The flexibility is the big drawcard here – you can pretty much log on and start earning whenever it suits you. Whether that’s early mornings, late nights, or just a few hours on a weekend, the choice is yours. Just make sure your car’s in good nick and you’ve got the right insurance sorted.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might be looking at:
- Sign-up process: Usually involves a background check, a vehicle inspection, and uploading your driver’s license and registration.
- Earning potential: This can really vary depending on how much you drive, when you drive (peak hours pay more), and surge pricing. Some drivers report making decent money, especially if they’re putting in the hours.
- Costs to consider: Fuel, vehicle maintenance, insurance, and Uber’s commission (which is around 25%) all eat into your earnings.
It’s worth remembering that while Uber handles the passenger connection, you’re essentially running your own small business. You’ll need to keep track of your expenses for tax time, and factor in wear and tear on your vehicle. Don’t expect to get rich quick, but it’s a solid option for earning on your own terms.
While exact figures can fluctuate, you’ll want to keep an eye on how much you’re earning per kilometre and per hour to see if it’s working for you. It’s a popular choice for a reason, offering a direct way to turn your car into an income stream.
2. Uber Eats
If you’ve got a bike, scooter, or even a car and a bit of free time, signing up with Uber Eats is a pretty straightforward way to earn some extra cash in Melbourne. You basically pick up food from restaurants and take it to hungry customers. The best part is you can log on and work whenever suits you, whether that’s during the lunch rush, dinner service, or even late at night.
It’s a flexible gig that lets you be your own boss on the road.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might earn:
| Type of Work | Estimated Earnings (per hour) |
|---|---|
| Food Delivery | $11 – $17 AUD |
To get started, you’ll need to download the Uber Driver app, go through a quick sign-up process, and usually have a background check done. Once you’re approved, you can start accepting delivery requests. You’ll get paid a base fare for each delivery, plus you can earn tips from customers, which can really add up.
Remember that the hourly rates you see advertised often don’t account for expenses like fuel, vehicle maintenance, or the time you spend waiting for orders. It’s good to keep those costs in mind when figuring out your actual take-home pay.
It’s a popular choice for many Melburnians looking to supplement their income, especially if they already use their vehicle for other things. Just make sure you’re comfortable navigating the city streets and dealing with traffic!
3. DoorDash
If you’ve got a car or even just a bike and you’re keen to get out and about in Melbourne, DoorDash is a pretty solid option for earning some extra cash. It’s basically a food delivery gig where you pick up meals from restaurants and drop them off to hungry customers. You can sign up and start working pretty quickly, and the best part is you get to choose your own hours. So, whether you want to do a few hours on a weekend night or a full day during the week, it’s totally up to you.
The flexibility is a big drawcard for many people.
Here’s a rough idea of how it works:
- Sign Up: You’ll need to download the DoorDash driver app and go through a quick sign-up process. They’ll usually need some basic info and a background check.
- Get Online: Once approved, you can log into the app whenever you want to start earning.
- Accept Orders: The app will show you available delivery jobs nearby. You can accept or decline them based on your preference.
- Pick Up & Deliver: Head to the restaurant, grab the order, and follow the GPS to the customer’s address.
- Get Paid: Earnings are usually paid out weekly, and you can track your income in the app.
While earnings can vary a lot depending on how busy it is, the time of day, and how many deliveries you do, some drivers report making around $20-$30 per hour before expenses. It’s a good way to explore different parts of the city too. You can find out more about their consumer strategy if you’re curious about how they operate.
Remember that fuel, vehicle maintenance, and your time are all costs to consider when figuring out your actual take-home pay. It’s not just about the hourly rate shown in the app.
4. Menulog
Menulog is another big player in the food delivery game here in Melbourne. If you’ve got a bike, scooter, or even just a car and a bit of free time, you can sign up to deliver meals for people.
It’s pretty straightforward to get started. You download the app, go through their sign-up process, which usually involves a bit of paperwork and a background check, and then you’re good to go. You can pick when you want to work, so it fits around your other commitments. Some people do it full-time, others just a few hours here and there.
The more you deliver, the more you can earn, and peak times like dinner rushes can be quite busy.
Here’s a rough idea of how it works:
- Sign Up: Complete the application and get approved.
- Go Online: Use the app to show you’re available for orders.
- Accept Orders: Pick up food from restaurants and take it to customers.
- Get Paid: Earnings are usually paid out weekly.
While earnings can vary a lot depending on how busy it is and how many orders you take, it’s a solid way to make some extra cash in Melbourne. Just remember to factor in your fuel or battery costs.
Being a Menulog delivery person means you’re often the last point of contact a customer has with the restaurant. A friendly face and a quick delivery can make a big difference to someone’s night.
5. Airtasker
Fancy yourself a bit of a jack-of-all-trades? Or maybe you’ve got a specific skill you reckon people would pay for? Airtasker is a cracking platform for exactly that. It’s basically a marketplace where folks post jobs they need doing, and you can put in an offer to do them. We’re talking everything from assembling flat-pack furniture and gardening to helping someone move house or even getting a bit of graphic design work done.
The beauty of Airtasker is its flexibility; you can pick and choose jobs that fit your schedule and your skillset.
Here’s a rough idea of how it works:
- Sign up and create a profile: Be honest about your skills and what you’re good at. A good profile makes you look more trustworthy.
- Browse for tasks: Look through the jobs posted in your area or online. You can filter by category, location, and budget.
- Make an offer: Decide how much you think the job is worth and put in your bid. It’s a bit of a balancing act – you want to be competitive but also get paid fairly.
- Get hired and complete the task: Once someone accepts your offer, you arrange the details and get the job done.
- Get paid: After you’ve completed the task to the client’s satisfaction, the money gets transferred to you, minus Airtasker’s fee.
It’s a great way to earn some extra cash doing things you might already be good at, or even learning new skills along the way. You can find loads of home organizing jobs in Melbourne if that’s your jam, or pretty much anything else you can think of.
Remember, building up good reviews is key on Airtasker. Start with smaller, easier tasks to get those positive ratings, and your reputation will grow from there. Don’t be afraid to charge what you’re worth, but also be realistic about the competition.
6. Didi
Didi is another big player in the rideshare game, offering Melburnians a chance to earn some extra cash by driving people around the city. It’s pretty similar to other rideshare apps you might have heard of, where you sign up, get approved, and then can start taking rides whenever you’ve got some free time.
The flexibility is a major drawcard for many people looking to supplement their income. You’re not tied to a 9-to-5, and you can choose when and how long you want to drive. Whether it’s a few hours on a weekend night or during the morning commute, you’re in control.
To get started, you’ll generally need a valid driver’s licence, a car that meets Didi’s requirements (usually a certain age and number of doors), and a clean driving record. They’ll run a background check, of course, just like the other services.
Here’s a rough idea of what the process might look like:
- Sign Up: Download the Didi driver app and create an account.
- Document Submission: Upload your licence, registration, insurance, and any other required paperwork.
- Vehicle Inspection: Your car might need to pass an inspection.
- Background Check: Didi will conduct a background and driving record check.
- Go Live: Once approved, you can log in and start accepting ride requests.
Earnings can vary a lot depending on how much you drive, the times you drive (peak hours usually pay more), and demand in different parts of Melbourne. It’s worth comparing potential earnings with other rideshare options to see where you’ll make the most.
Driving for Didi means you’re essentially running your own small business on wheels. You’ll need to factor in fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, and the time you spend driving. It’s not just about the fares you earn; it’s about the overall profit after expenses.
7. Car Next Door
Got a car just sitting there most of the time? You could be making some decent cash from it. Platforms like Car Next Door (which is now part of Uber Carshare) let you rent out your vehicle to people in your neighbourhood when you’re not using it. Think about it – your car could be earning you money while you’re at work, asleep, or even on holidays. It’s a pretty neat way to offset those costs like insurance, registration, and general upkeep that come with owning a car.
This is a fantastic opportunity to turn a depreciating asset into an income stream.
How much can you actually pocket? Well, it varies, but people in Melbourne have reported earning anywhere from $550 to $750 a month on average by listing their cars. That’s not too shabby for something that would otherwise just be parked.
Here’s a rough idea of what you might earn:
- Daily Use: Renting your car out for a few days a week could bring in a steady stream of income.
- Overnight Rentals: If your car is parked at home overnight, you can rent it out then too.
- Weekend Rentals: People often need cars for weekend trips or errands, making this a popular time to rent.
It’s pretty straightforward to get started. You list your car, set your availability, and the platform handles a lot of the booking and payment side of things. They also usually have insurance sorted for when your car is out on hire, which is a big plus.
You’ll need to make sure your car is in good condition and meets their requirements. It’s also worth considering how much wear and tear might occur, though the income often outweighs this for many owners. Just remember to check the specific terms and conditions of the platform you choose.
8. Gumtree
Gumtree is a classic for a reason, mate. It’s been around forever and is still a go-to for selling pretty much anything you can think of. Got a bike you’re not using anymore? Old furniture cluttering up the garage? Even if you’ve got a knack for fixing things or offering a service like gardening or minor repairs, Gumtree is a solid spot to list it.
It’s a fantastic place to offload unwanted items and make some quick cash.
Here’s a bit of a rundown on how you can use Gumtree to your advantage:
- Selling Goods: This is the big one. From electronics and clothes to cars and even pets (though be careful with that one!), you can list almost anything. Make sure you take clear photos and write honest descriptions to attract buyers.
- Offering Services: If you’ve got a skill, advertise it! Think handyman services, tutoring, cleaning, pet sitting, or even offering your time for odd jobs. People in Melbourne are often looking for reliable help.
- Finding Freebies: On the flip side, Gumtree is also a goldmine for free stuff. Sometimes people give away furniture or other items they just want gone. You might even be able to pick up things to fix up and resell.
When you’re listing something, be realistic with your pricing. Have a look at what similar items are going for on Gumtree to get an idea. And always be safe when meeting up with buyers – choose public places if possible, or let someone know where you’re going.
Gumtree is all about connecting local people. Whether you’re buying, selling, or offering a service, it’s a straightforward way to interact directly with others in your community and get a bit of extra coin in your pocket without too much fuss.
9. Facebook Marketplace
Got a bunch of stuff just sitting around collecting dust? Facebook Marketplace is a pretty straightforward way to turn those unwanted items into some extra cash. It’s basically a digital garage sale, right there on your favourite social media platform. You can sell pretty much anything, from old furniture and clothes to electronics and even handmade crafts. The key is good photos and a clear description.
Here’s a quick rundown of how it generally works:
- List your item: Take some decent photos – good lighting is your friend! Write a clear, honest description of what you’re selling, including any flaws.
- Set your price: Have a look at similar items to get an idea of what people are paying. You can be firm or open to offers.
- Chat with buyers: People will message you with questions or to arrange a pickup. Be polite and responsive.
- Arrange pickup/delivery: Most sales on Marketplace are local, so you’ll usually arrange for the buyer to pick up the item. Be safe and meet in a public place if you can, or have someone with you.
It’s a great spot for selling things like:
- Furniture that’s still in decent condition but you don’t need anymore.
- Clothes, shoes, and accessories you haven’t worn in ages.
- Electronics, books, toys, and homewares.
- Handmade items or upcycled goods.
Selling on Facebook Marketplace is all about being realistic. Don’t expect to get top dollar for everything, but it’s a fantastic way to declutter and make a bit of coin without much fuss. Just be prepared for a bit of haggling and the occasional message that goes nowhere.
10. Etsy
If you’ve got a knack for making things, Etsy is a fantastic place to sell your creations. Think handmade jewellery, custom art, knitted goods, or even unique digital prints. It’s a global marketplace specifically for crafters and collectors, so you’re reaching people who are actively looking for unique, handcrafted items. The key is to make your products stand out and take good photos.
Setting up shop is pretty straightforward. You’ll need to create a seller account, then list your items with clear descriptions and appealing photos. Remember, people can’t touch or feel your items online, so good visuals are super important. You’ll also need to figure out your pricing, including materials, your time, and any platform fees. It’s a good idea to look at what similar items are selling for on Etsy to get a feel for the market.
Here are a few tips to get you started:
- High-Quality Photos: Use natural light and a clean background. Show your item from different angles.
- Detailed Descriptions: Include all the important info – size, materials, how it’s made, and care instructions.
- Competitive Pricing: Research similar items, but don’t undervalue your work. Factor in your time and skill.
- Keywords: Use relevant keywords in your titles and descriptions so buyers can find your items easily.
- Customer Service: Respond to messages promptly and handle any issues professionally.
While it takes effort to build a following and get sales rolling in, the satisfaction of selling something you’ve made yourself is pretty great. Plus, you can connect with other makers for support and ideas.
Etsy does charge fees for listing items and for sales, so keep that in mind when you’re pricing your goods. But for many crafty Melburnians, it’s a rewarding way to turn a hobby into some extra cash.
Wrapping It Up
So there you have it, a bunch of different ways to get a bit more cash in your pocket here in Melbourne. Whether you’re keen to drive people around, sell some stuff you don’t need anymore, or even get paid to test out websites, there’s something for pretty much everyone. It’s not always easy, and some things take more effort than others, but having that extra bit of money can really make a difference. Give a few a go and see what works best for you – you might surprise yourself with how much you can earn.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I actually earn doing these side hustles?
Earnings can really vary, mate! Some gigs, like driving for Uber or delivering food, might pay around $25-$30 an hour before costs. Others, like selling stuff online or doing odd jobs on Airtasker, depend a lot on how much time you put in and what you’re selling or doing. It’s best to check the specific app or platform for estimated earnings, but remember to factor in things like petrol or fees.
Do I need a lot of special gear to start?
Not usually! For driving or delivery jobs, you’ll need a reliable car or bike and a smartphone. For selling things, you just need the items you want to get rid of. If you’re crafty, you’ll need your art supplies. Most platforms are pretty easy to sign up for without needing fancy equipment to begin with.
Can I do these jobs whenever I want?
That’s the beauty of most side hustles! Apps like Uber, Uber Eats, and DoorDash let you log on and work whenever suits you, whether it’s a quick hour during lunch or a whole weekend. For things like Airtasker or selling online, you set your own hours too, but you’ll need to be available to do the job or post your items.
What if I don’t have a car?
No worries! You can still earn cash. Platforms like Airtasker have heaps of jobs you can do online, like writing or admin tasks. You can also sell things you make or own on Etsy, Gumtree, or Facebook Marketplace. Even delivering food with a bike or scooter is an option with some of the delivery apps.
Are there any hidden costs I should know about?
Yeah, a few things to keep in mind. Driving jobs will cost you petrol and wear and tear on your car. Some platforms might take a cut of your earnings, like Airtasker taking 20%. And if you’re selling things you make, you’ll need to buy materials. Always check the platform’s fees before you start!
How do I know which side hustle is best for me?
Think about what you’re good at and what you enjoy. Do you like driving? Then Uber or food delivery might be for you. Are you creative? Try Etsy or selling art. Need quick cash? Odd jobs on Airtasker or selling unwanted stuff could work. It’s also good to look at how much time you have and what you want to earn.
