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How to Start a Personal Training or Fitness Coaching Business in Australia

The demand for qualified personal trainers and fitness coaches in Australia continues to grow. From one-on-one training to online coaching and group bootcamps, the fitness industry offers huge potential. But success takes more than motivation and muscle—it requires business structure, compliance, and a sound financial strategy

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How to Start a Personal Training or Fitness Coaching Business in Australia

By Trinity Accounting Practice – Your Trusted Fitness Industry Accounting Experts in Beverly Hills, NSW
📍 159 Stoney Creek Road Beverly Hills NSW 2209
☎️ 02 9543 6804
🌐 www.trinitygroup.com.au
📅 Weekend & after-hours appointments available!
📅 Booking Link: https://calendly.com/ramy-hanna

Introduction: Turn Your Passion for Fitness Into a Profitable Business

The demand for qualified personal trainers and fitness coaches in Australia continues to grow. From one-on-one training to online coaching and group bootcamps, the fitness industry offers huge potential. But success takes more than motivation and muscle—it requires business structure, compliance, and a sound financial strategy.

At Trinity Accounting Practice, we specialise in helping fitness professionals start, structure, and grow thriving personal training businesses across Australia.

1. Choose Your Fitness Business Model

Start by defining how you’ll deliver your services:

  • One-on-one training in a gym or at clients’ homes
  • Group sessions, bootcamps, or outdoor fitness
  • Online coaching via apps, video, or custom programs
  • Hybrid models that blend in-person and digital offerings

Your model impacts your overhead, pricing, tax structure, and compliance needs.

2. Register Your Business and Structure It Properly

Before you take on your first client, you need:

  • An Australian Business Number (ABN)
  • A business name (optional but recommended)
  • The right structure: Sole Trader, Partnership, or Company

At Trinity, we help:

  • Register your ABN and business name
  • Advise you on the best tax-effective business structure
  • Handle all ASIC registrations (we’re a registered ASIC Agent)

3. Get Qualified and Insured

To work legally as a PT or coach in Australia, you must:

  • Complete a Certificate III and IV in Fitness
  • Hold current First Aid and CPR certifications
  • Obtain public liability and professional indemnity insurance

We also recommend setting up contracts and waivers with your clients to manage risk.

4. Choose Where and How You’ll Train Clients

Common setups include:

  • Subcontracting at a commercial gym
  • Renting a private studio or co-training space
  • Running sessions in parks or public spaces (may require council permits)
  • Online-only coaching through fitness apps or Zoom

Trinity can help you understand rental agreements, subcontracting rights, and the tax implications of each setup.

5. Set Up Your Accounting System and Invoicing

A simple accounting setup makes managing your business stress-free. Use Xero or MYOB to:

  • Send invoices and collect payments
  • Track income and expenses
  • Reconcile bank transactions
  • Prepare for BAS and EOFY returns

We’ll configure your software, setup income categories, and train you to use it confidently.

6. Understand Your Tax and BAS Obligations

You must pay income tax on your profits. If your turnover exceeds $75,000/year, you also need to:

  • Register for Goods & Services Tax (GST)
  • Lodge quarterly Business Activity Statements (BAS)
  • Pay Pay As You Go (PAYG) instalments

Trinity handles all of this for you—including income tax returns and super deductions.

7. Build Your Personal Trainer Pricing Structure

Set your pricing based on:

  • One-on-one vs group sessions
  • Session length and frequency
  • Packages or subscription models
  • Location and equipment provided

Also factor in your tax, insurance, and ongoing expenses when setting prices. We help PTs build profitable pricing models.

8. Claim Tax Deductions Specific to Fitness Professionals

As a registered business, you can claim expenses such as:

  • Gym equipment and workout gear
  • Training courses and certifications
  • Travel and car expenses between client sites
  • Insurance, accounting, and marketing
  • Subscriptions to fitness platforms or booking systems

We’ll guide you on what’s claimable and keep you ATO-compliant.

9. Market Your Personal Training Services

Use a mix of online and local marketing:

  • Instagram and TikTok (highly visual and fitness-friendly)
  • Local Google Business Profile
  • Client testimonials and referral incentives
  • Branded flyers for gyms, parks, or fitness stores
  • Booking platforms like PT Minder or Calendly

Marketing costs are deductible—make sure they’re tracked correctly in your books.

10. Grow With Confidence and Avoid Burnout

As your business grows, consider:

  • Hiring subcontractors or junior trainers
  • Launching online courses or programs
  • Moving from sole trader to company for tax and liability advantages
  • Building a content or membership site for passive income

Trinity helps personal trainers plan for scalability, tax minimisation, and long-term stability.

Conclusion: Build a Fit Business with Expert Support

The personal training industry is full of opportunity—but the best results happen when you pair your fitness expertise with smart business planning. With Trinity by your side, you can focus on your clients and your craft, knowing your financials are handled by experts.

Contact Trinity – Fitness Industry Accounting Experts

Trinity Accounting Practice
📍 159 Stoney Creek Road Beverly Hills NSW 2209
☎️ 02 9543 6804
🌐 www.trinitygroup.com.au
📅 Weekend & after-hours appointments available!
📅 Book Now: https://calendly.com/ramy-hanna