Your Guide to What's Hot, What's Profitable & What's Next
Thinking of starting your own business in 2025? Or looking to scale the one you've got? You're not alone Australia is currently home to over 2.5 million small businesses, and that number is only growing.
But here's the thing: not all industries are created equal. While some are treading water or going backwards, others are absolutely booming fueled by shifting consumer behaviour, tech adoption, and good old-fashioned Aussie hustle.
At Social Hippos, we work with entrepreneurs and SMEs across the country, so we get a front-row seat to what's working in real time. This blog is your cheat sheet to the fastest-growing small business industries in Australia for 2025 plus why they're trending and how to break in.
E-Commerce is Still the King
Best for: Product-based businesses, niche retailers, creators with a following
Keywords: eCommerce Australia, trending product businesses, start an online store Australia
E-commerce in Australia isn't just surviving it's thriving. With platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and Amazon Australia making it easier than ever to launch an online store, we're seeing a surge in local product-based businesses.
And we're not talking about selling just anything niche is where it's at. Think custom pet accessories, zero-waste home goods, boutique fashion labels, and Aussie-made skincare.
Why it's growing:
- Consumers want to “shop local,” even online
- Social commerce (selling via Instagram/TikTok) is massive
- Shipping options and fulfilment partners are improving
Pro tip: Build a solid brand from day one great product photos, unique messaging, and email funnels will make all the difference.
Health, Wellness & Lifestyle Services
Best for: Coaches, trainers, allied health professionals, digital wellness brands
Keywords: health business ideas Australia, fitness coaching online, mental wellness apps
From stress to sleep to strength training, Aussies are investing more in their wellbeing and they're doing it in new ways. The health & wellness space has expanded beyond gyms and supplements. Now we're talking about:
- Virtual physiotherapy and telehealth
- Online mental health support
- Breathwork, gut health, Pilates, and mindfulness
- Subscription-based wellness products
With consumers focused on longevity, mobility, and mental clarity, this sector shows no signs of slowing down.
Pro tip: Build community and credibility through consistent content especially video and social proof.
Home Services & Local Trade Businesses
Best for: Tradies, stylists, cleaners, organisers, landscape designers
Keywords: local business ideas Australia, tradie marketing, fastest growing trades 2025
We've all spent more time at home the last few years and it shows in our spending habits. Aussies are upgrading, renovating, reorganising, and cleaning like never before. From minimal interior styling to eco-friendly cleaning services, the demand for home-focused businesses is huge.
Trades and on-demand services like:
- Garden maintenance and landscaping
- Home decluttering and styling
- Mobile car detailing
- Custom carpentry and renovation
This sector is ripe for local SEO dominance if you know how to market it.
Pro tip: Use Google My Business, geotagged content, and reputation marketing to build trust fast.
Online Education & Skill-Based Courses
Best for: Teachers, consultants, creatives, agencies with systems
Keywords: online course business Australia, how to create digital products, tutoring startups
Micro-learning and remote education exploded during the pandemic and never really slowed down. Aussies are hungry to learn new skills, change careers, and improve their lives from the comfort of home.
That's opened the door for entrepreneurs who can package expertise into profitable formats, such as:
- Online courses & memberships
- Paid webinars & masterclasses
- 1:1 or group coaching
- Niche tutoring (especially for uni entry tests and ATAR support)
This business model is especially attractive because it scales without trading hours for dollars.
Pro tip: Validate your offer before building it then automate with a funnel.
Digital Marketing & Content Creation
Best for: Freelancers, small agencies, ex-corporate creatives
Keywords: freelance marketing Australia, content creation business, social media strategist
Here's the kicker: with so many new small businesses popping up in Australia, the demand for digital marketing services is exploding.
That means huge opportunity for people with skills in:
- Social media strategy
- Paid ads (Google + Meta)
- SEO and content writing
- Branding and design
- UGC and video editing
It's one of the lowest-overhead, highest-demand businesses you can start especially if you've worked in an agency or corporate before.
Pro tip: Niche down. Being “the digital marketer for tradies” or “the TikTok strategist for fitness brands” will win you more clients than a generic “I do everything” pitch.
Final Thoughts: Timing + Strategy = Growth
There's never been more support for small businesses in Australia between government grants, digital tools, and consumer preference for local brands, the landscape is fertile for growth.
But opportunity without strategy is just noise.
That's where Social Hippos comes in. Whether you're a new entrepreneur or scaling to your next milestone, we help you launch with strategy, build with intention, and grow with smart digital marketing that actually works.
Book a discovery call and let's talk about your 2025 game plan.
