The Honest Answer

Commission only earnings vary enormously. Some agents earn less than minimum wage while others clear $300,000 or more annually. The difference comes down to what you sell, how you sell it, and how consistently you show up.

Industry Ranges

Technology and SaaS sales typically offer the highest commissions, with experienced agents earning $100,000 to $250,000 annually. Financial products like insurance and lending can also be lucrative once you build a client base.

Trade and construction product sales often pay well due to high transaction values. Agents selling building materials or equipment can earn $80,000 to $150,000.

Consumer products and retail sales usually offer lower per transaction commissions but can add up with high volume. Earnings in this space typically range from $40,000 to $90,000.

The Ramp Up Period

Be realistic about your first six months. Most new agents earn significantly less while they build their pipeline and learn their products. It is common to earn very little in months one and two before momentum builds.

This is why financial preparation before going commission only is so important. You need to survive the ramp up without panic.

What Top Earners Do Differently

The highest earning agents share common traits. They sell products with recurring commissions, building a growing base of passive income. They work multiple product lines rather than relying on a single source. They prospect consistently rather than in bursts. And they treat their sales practice like a real business.

Maximising Your Earnings

Focus on high commission, high retention products. Build relationships that generate referrals. Use systems and tools to stay organised. And always be adding new products to your portfolio.

Platforms like Zepys let you compare commission structures across multiple companies, so you can make informed decisions about which products to prioritise.

Tax Considerations

As a commission agent in Australia, you are typically a sole trader or contractor. This means you need to manage your own tax, super, and GST obligations. Set aside at least 30% of your gross income for tax to avoid nasty surprises at the end of the financial year.

Talk to an accountant who understands contractor income. The right tax advice can save you thousands annually.