Key takeaways
- Monthly reports show which jobs and customers actually make you money.
- Quotes need to cover materials, labour, overheads and your own wage.
- Deposits, progress claims and prompt follow-up keep cash coming in.
- Planning ahead for tax, BAS, staff and equipment means no nasty surprises.
Most tradies we meet are flat out, with jobs booked weeks ahead, yet the bank balance doesn't always reflect how hard they're working. We made a short whiteboard video on the five things we focus on to help trade businesses grow. The full transcript is below.
Video transcript
Intro
Running a trade business is hard work. Here’s how we help tradies grow their business, so you can spend more time on the tools, and less time stressing about the numbers.
The problem
Most tradies we meet are flat out. The phone’s ringing, and jobs are booked weeks ahead. But at the end of the month, the bank balance doesn’t always reflect how hard you’ve worked.
1. Know your numbers
First, we help you know your numbers. Simple monthly reports that show which jobs, and which customers, actually make you money.
2. Price for profit
Second, we help you price for profit. We make sure your quotes cover materials, labour, overheads, and your own wage, so every job is worth doing.
3. Keep cash flowing
Third, we keep the cash flowing. Deposits, progress claims, and following up unpaid invoices, so you’re not waiting months to get paid.
4. Tax & BAS sorted
Fourth, we take care of tax and compliance. BAS, tax returns, and planning ahead, so there are no nasty surprises at tax time.
5. Plan for growth
And fifth, we help you plan for growth. Whether that’s putting on an apprentice, buying a new ute, or setting up the right business structure as you grow.
Quick wins to try this month
- Check your last five quotes. Did each one cover materials, labour, overheads and a fair wage for you? If not, adjust your pricing for the next job.
- Ask for a deposit on bigger jobs, and set up progress claims for anything that runs over several weeks.
- Chase anything older than 30 days. A polite reminder and a call usually do more than waiting.
- Set aside GST and tax as you go. Moving a set percentage of every payment into a separate account each week makes BAS time far less stressful.
- Book a planning session before 30 June, so decisions about tools, vehicles, apprentices and your structure are made with time to spare.
We look after electricians, plumbers, builders, landscapers and other trades across Melbourne. See how we work with tradies, read 7 ways to get your business growing again, or book a free consultation.
Last reviewed 16 October 2026. This article is general information only and doesn't take into account your personal circumstances. It isn't tax, legal or financial advice. Tax laws change, and proposed measures may change before they become law. Talk to us before acting on anything here.
