ato logo

Newsagents

Benchmarks for newsagents.

Last updated 20 April 2023

Check the performance benchmarks for newsagents.

Businesses in this industry

Businesses in this industry sell newspapers, magazines and similar publications, greeting cards, stationery and lottery products. They also provide a delivery service for newspapers and magazines. They may also sell confectionery, drinks, phone cards, transport tickets, toys and gifts. Services provided may include photocopying, fax and other similar services.

These benchmarks do not cover post office agencies and newspaper or magazine delivery businesses.

What are performance benchmarks

Performance benchmarks use information reported on tax returns for the 2020–21 financial year and are updated each year. This is the most current data.

The benchmarks show ranges of business income to business expenses. Use these benchmarks to compare your performance against similar businesses.

Key benchmark range

Total expense to turnover is the key benchmark range for this industry. It is likely to be the most accurate when predicting business turnover.

You should fall within the key benchmark range for your annual turnover. If you fall outside the range, your business may have room to improve.

Check that you have reported all income and accounted for any trading stock used for private purposes. Some businesses can use amounts as estimates for the value of trading stock used for private purposes.

2020–21 benchmarks

Key benchmarks for 2020–21

Annual turnover range

$65,000 – $500,000

$500,001 – $1,000,000

More than $1,000,000

'Total expenses' divided by 'Annual turnover'

79% to 89%

85% to 92%

90% to 95%

Average total expenses

84%

88%

92%

Other benchmarks

Not all expenses are reported by every business. Only use this information as a guide if it applies to your business.

Other benchmarks for 2020–21

Annual turnover range

$65,000 – $500,000

$500,001 – $1,000,000

More than $1,000,000

'Rent' divided by 'Annual turnover'

9% to 15%

6% to 12%

4% to 8%

'Motor vehicle expenses' divided by 'Annual turnover'

1% to 2%

1%

0% to 1%

For benchmarks for previous years, see Small business benchmarksExternal Link.

QC43706