Exclusive: Sydney teenager Haven Sun is not your typical high school student. While many of his peers unwind by watching TV after school, Haven often finds himself busy with a unique entrepreneurial venture.

The 15-year-old has turned a passion into profit by managing a collection of snack vending machines, strategically placed throughout Parramatta and Blacktown in Sydney’s western suburbs. This venture brings in thousands of dollars in extra income each month.

As Maria Tampus from Royal Vending explains, the vending machine market in Australia can be highly unpredictable.

“After accounting for wholesale expenses, the typical net profit averages around $400 per machine,” Tampus notes.

However, when managed effectively, this business can feel like a lucrative opportunity.

“Maintaining these machines requires a significant commitment,” Haven admits, revealing that he devotes roughly 10 hours each week to servicing his machines.

Vending machine side hustles have become a popular way for everyday Australians to make money on the side – there’s even a Facebook group with over 30,000 people asking for advice, offloading machines or trying to buy second-hand units.

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