Free Template

Freelance Invoice Template

Create professional invoices for your freelance projects. Get paid faster with clear, professional invoices.

Common services billed with this template

Typical use cases for the freelance invoice template:

  • ✓ Writing, editing and copywriting
  • ✓ Graphic, brand and UI design
  • ✓ Web and software development
  • ✓ Photography and videography
  • ✓ Social media and marketing
  • ✓ Voice-over, translation and transcription

Typical line items

Fields you'll usually include on this invoice:

  • ✓ Project name and brief description
  • ✓ Hourly billing (rate × hours) or fixed project fee
  • ✓ Milestones (e.g. 50% on start, 50% on delivery)
  • ✓ Revisions or extra rounds beyond agreed scope
  • ✓ Expenses or licences (stock images, fonts, hosting)
  • ✓ GST on a separate line (if registered)

Standard Payment Terms

Net 7 or Net 14 with 50% deposit upfront for projects over $500 is the freelancer norm.

Invoicing Tips

  • ✓ Always invoice with a deposit for new clients — protects you from non-payment
  • ✓ Bill in milestones for projects longer than 2 weeks
  • ✓ Quote in writing first and reference the quote/PO number on the invoice
  • ✓ Specify what's included AND what isn't (revisions, scope, file formats)
  • ✓ Add a late-payment clause (e.g. 1.5% per month) — it's rarely enforced but signals seriousness

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ✓ Working without a written quote or contract before invoicing
  • ✓ Vague descriptions like "design work" — itemise so clients can't dispute
  • ✓ Forgetting to invoice for revisions outside the original scope
  • ✓ Not chasing overdue invoices — a quiet freelancer is an unpaid freelancer
  • ✓ Mixing personal and freelance income in one bank account

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I price freelance work in Australia?

Day rates for experienced Australian freelancers are typically $400-$1,200/day depending on field. Hourly rates: writers $60-$150, designers $80-$180, developers $90-$200. Charge what covers your business costs + tax + a margin — not just what a salary would be hourly.

Do freelancers need an ABN?

Yes — without one your client must withhold 47% of every payment under PAYG rules. ABNs are free at abr.gov.au.

When should I register for GST as a freelancer?

Mandatory once your annual freelance income exceeds $75,000. Below that, register voluntarily if most of your clients are GST-registered (they reclaim the GST, so it costs them nothing).

Can I invoice overseas clients?

Yes — most freelance exports are GST-free. Invoice in USD or AUD, keep proof of payment from offshore, and report in AUD on your BAS.

What's the best way to get paid faster?

Set up PayID, invoice the same day you finish, use short terms (Net 7-14), send polite reminders at day 1, 3 and 7 overdue, and require deposits from new clients.

Related Invoice Templates

Skip the template and build it live with our online invoice generator — free PDF, ABN & GST included.