[danieltrembath]

I've been freelancing in Melbourne almost full time since 2002.

As others have said, the first year or two is very tough and I nearly went bankrupt. But once you get past that, assuming your work is good, you'll find enough repeat customers to keep you comfortable.

If you can get some kind of cushy project (say some work from your previous employer) to help transition then that's a big win.

I would be earning significantly more in a traditional position, but I live a good life. If I were more business savvy maybe I would be making more than a normal job.

The quality of life is exceptional. Being your own boss, being in control of your daily schedule, being able to nip out any time to solve life stuff, that's all a huge win. I'm 15 years in and very happy, have a strong customer base, and looking at kids soon it will let me be a stay at home dad.

If you're ever over Hawthorn way I'd be happy to have a coffee with you and discuss.

[flashman]

Just on the SAHD point: make sure you can get blocks of guaranteed uninterrupted working time. My experience of working at home is that it's very, very difficult to achieve anything when switching between Dad and Worker roles, and kids don't understand that at all.

[CyberFonic]

On the SAHD score: even more dangerous are stay at home mothers who might hit on you for some company. Getting roped into various kindy / school related activities, etc.

Unless you can manage with very little sleep, your productivity is in dire danger from disruptions.

[imron]

This is so true!

[panjaro]

Very encouraging !

I'm in Ivanhoe. Coffee would be great for a technical chat !

So I guess you're a Hawks supporter ?

[danieltrembath]

Ha. Nah I'm not from here originally.

If you want to say hi danielt @ room52 net

If you're not already involved in the weekly programming night scene (checkout what's available on meetup and lanyard) then that's a great way to meet other developers and a lot of other freelancers.