How the Sharing Economy Is Increasing Aussie Incomes

Sharing isn’t just caring—it’s profitable. Across Australia, millions are tapping into the sharing economy to boost their income, reduce costs, and rethink ownership entirely. From hiring out cars and caravans to renting tools, office space, and time, this peer-to-peer marketplace is reshaping how we live, work, and earn.

With the global sharing economy expected to exceed $335 billion by 2025, now is the perfect time to explore how you can get involved—whether as a side hustle, full-time gig, or small business venture.

What Is the Sharing Economy?

The sharing economy (also called the peer-to-peer or collaborative economy) is an economic model where individuals share access to goods, services, or skills—typically via digital platforms. Instead of buying or renting from traditional businesses, users transact directly with each other.

Technology has made this model accessible to anyone with a smartphone and Wi-Fi connection. Whether you have a spare room, a caravan, a high-pressure cleaner, or just some free time—there’s probably a platform that can help you turn it into cash.

Trust is key: most platforms use two-way ratings to build reputations between owners and renters.

Popular Sharing Economy Platforms in Australia

Airbnb

The original disruptor in accommodation, Airbnb lets you rent out a spare room, apartment, or entire home to guests. Many hosts earn thousands annually from short-term stays, especially during peak travel seasons or major events.

Uber

Whether you’re driving full-time or part-time, Uber gives drivers flexibility and control over when they work. According to Uber Australia, drivers can earn up to $35/hour in busy metro areas.

Other Leading Aussie Sharing Platforms

Spacer

Spacer allows you to rent out unused storage space—like your garage, shed or parking spot. Some users earn an extra $150/month just by listing their spare space.

ToolMates

Hire out tools and equipment you rarely use—from drills to bobcats. ToolMates insures listings up to $1,000, giving peace of mind to both owners and borrowers.

Car Next Door

Now part of Uber Carshare, this platform lets owners rent their personal vehicles by the hour or day. Owners can earn $2,000+ per year on average.

Airtasker

From assembling furniture to freelance copywriting, Airtasker connects taskers with people who need a job done. Many users build steady side incomes or even full-time freelancing businesses through the platform.

Camplify

Camplify connects caravan and campervan owners with holidaymakers. Depending on the vehicle and location, owners can earn up to $10,000 a year. Estimate your potential earnings here.

DriveMyCar

Another car-sharing platform, DriveMyCar focuses on medium- to long-term rentals and is often used by travellers or business professionals needing a temporary vehicle with full insurance and roadside support included.

Rubberdesk

Australia’s leading marketplace for co-working and office space. If you’ve got spare desks or an underused commercial space, Rubberdesk helps you monetise it by connecting you with remote workers and small teams.

How Much Can You Earn?

According to Finder research, one in five Australians has participated in the sharing economy—and average participants earn an additional $7,300 per year.

Top earners on platforms like Uber and Camplify can bring in even more, depending on location, availability, and level of commitment. Many Aussies use the sharing economy to:

• Offset household expenses
• Build savings faster
• Start a small business with minimal capital
• Earn passive income from underused assets

Others enjoy the flexibility and community aspects—especially in the case of platforms like Airtasker or Camplify, where the work can feel more personal or rewarding.

Ready to Get Involved?

Whether you’re interested in the gig economy, want to launch a micro-business, or simply make extra income with what you already own, the sharing economy offers endless flexibility.

Want to go beyond the side hustle and learn how to manage, scale, or even create your own platform? Consider:

• Small business and entrepreneurship courses
• Digital marketing and eCommerce
• Project and operations management training

In the sharing economy, what you own—and what you know—can both help you grow.