Private tutoring is one of the simplest home business ideas to start. You need knowledge, patience and a quiet space to work. You can begin with a few students from your local area and build from there. Before you take that first booking, though, there are a few rules to understand.
The biggest one is the Working with Children Check. Each state and territory runs its own scheme, and tutoring children is generally treated as child related work. This guide explains the main points using official sources from New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia. It also covers setting up your space and running the business side well.
Why tutoring counts as child related work
Every state scheme is built around the idea of child related work. In NSW, the Office of the Children’s Guardian says this means providing services to people under 18. The contact is usually face to face and goes beyond incidental contact. Tutors, extracurricular coaches and instructors are named as people who need a Check.
Victoria takes a similar approach. Its list of child related work includes coaching or private tuition services of any kind specifically for children. In WA, a coaching or private tuition service of any kind is its own category of child related work. Private tutors working with individuals or groups are given as an example.
Online and phone tutoring is not a loophole either. The NSW guidance on who needs a Check includes people providing counselling, mentoring or distance education by online or phone. If your students are children, plan on needing a Check wherever you teach them. Rules differ between states and change from time to time, so always check your own state’s scheme.
How the Working with Children Check works in NSW
In NSW, a Check lasts for five years. It stays valid even if you change jobs. A new employer does not need you to apply again if you already hold a current Check. You can start work once you have an application number, although some employers want a full clearance first.
NSW does list some exemptions. These include people under 18 and short term visitors from interstate for fewer than 30 days. Babysitters working under a private arrangement are also exempt. A paid tutoring business is a different thing, so do not assume these exemptions cover you.
What Victoria and WA say about exemptions
Victoria lists its own exemptions. Teachers registered with the Victorian Institute of Teaching are exempt while their registration is current. However, if they do child related work outside schools or early childhood services, they must notify the Victorian scheme. Interstate visitors can work for up to 30 days in a calendar year if they hold an equivalent Check from home.
The WA factsheet on coaching and private tuition also lists exemptions. One covers group classes of two or more people that are not provided or advertised mainly to children. The category itself also leaves out informal arrangements made for private or domestic purposes. A tutoring business that advertises to families would not fit either of these.
Setting up a safe and comfortable tutoring space
Most home tutors work at a dining table or in a spare room. Pick a space that is quiet, well lit and easy for parents to see into. You could keep the door open and invite parents to stay nearby. This builds trust and makes your sessions more transparent.
Comfort matters too, because you may sit or stand for several sessions in a row. If you use a standing desk for planning and marking, read our tips on using a standing desk correctly. A good chair for each student is worth the money as well. Our guide to extending the life of office upholstery shows how to keep seating in good shape.
Keep the space free of personal clutter. Have spare pens, paper and a simple whiteboard on hand. A tidy space helps students focus. It also gives parents confidence that you run a professional service.
Running the business side
Treat your tutoring as a real business from the start. Decide on your subjects, year levels and session length before you advertise. Write down your fees and your cancellation policy so families know what to expect. Clear terms prevent awkward conversations later.
Think about the name you will trade under. If it is anything other than your own name, look at how to legally register a business name. A clear name also helps when parents search for local tutors. Keep it simple and easy to spell.
Keep good records of each student and each session. Note what you covered and any progress you see. These notes help you plan the next lesson. They also make it easy to give parents a short update at the end of each term.
Helping older students with study and career choices
Senior students often ask tutors about subject choices and future study. You can share what you know about your own subject area. For bigger questions about careers, it can help to point families to a specialist. Our post on signs you need a career advisor explains when that kind of help is worth it.
Knowing your limits is part of being a good tutor. Stick to the subjects you can teach with confidence. Refer students elsewhere when a question is outside your skills. Families will respect you more for being honest.
Finding your first students
Word of mouth is a simple place to start. Tell friends, neighbours and local community groups that you are taking students. A simple flyer at the library or community centre can help. Ask happy families if they would mention you to others.
A basic website gives parents a place to read about your subjects and fees. Keep it short and clear. Mention that you hold a current Working with Children Check where your state requires one. It is one more reason for a family to feel comfortable choosing you.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Working with Children Check to tutor from home?
In most cases, yes, if your students are children. NSW names tutors as people who need a Check. Victoria and WA both list private tuition as child related work. Check the rules in your own state before you start.
Does online tutoring need a Check?
In NSW, distance education by online or phone is listed as child related work. That means online tutors of children also need a Check there. Other states have their own rules. Read your state’s guidance to confirm.
How long does a NSW Check last?
A NSW Working with Children Check lasts for five years. It stays valid if you move jobs. Keep a note of the expiry date. Renew it in good time so there is no gap.
I am a registered teacher in Victoria. Do I need a Check?
Victorian registered teachers are exempt while their registration is current. If you do child related work outside schools or early childhood services, you must notify the scheme. Private tutoring may fall into that group. Check the Victorian guidance for your situation.
This article is general information only and is not legal advice. Working with Children Check laws differ between states and territories, and they change over time. For advice on your situation, contact your state’s screening agency or speak with a qualified lawyer.
