Canva
Design flyers, ute signage, socials and quotes templates with built-in AI tools.
Our verdict
The easiest way to look professional on socials and flyers without paying a designer.
Best for: Making your marketing look sharp on a budget
What it does
Canva is an online design tool for social posts, flyers, business cards, signage and documents, with templates and built-in AI design and writing tools. The free plan covers a lot, and Pro adds premium templates, brand kits and more AI features.
AI features
- AI design and writing tools (Magic Studio)
Other marketing & getting leads tools
Durable
AI website builder that generates a small-business site in minutes.
Verdict: Fastest route from no website to a decent one. Fine for a sole trader, but you'll outgrow it if SEO becomes a big lead source.
Price: Free plan. Launch $25/month ($22/month annually), Grow $49/month ($41/month annually). Check currency on site.
Google Business Profile
Your free listing on Google Search and Maps: reviews, photos and calls.
Verdict: Do this before you pay for anything else on this page. Use ChatGPT or Claude to draft review replies and service descriptions.
Price: Free.
hipages
Australia's big tradie lead marketplace, on monthly memberships.
Verdict: Can fill a quiet calendar fast, but watch the contract terms (6-month intro, then a 12-month renewal) and track cost per won job.
Price: Memberships A$139, A$249, A$449 or A$649/month + GST (155–850 credits). 6-month intro term, then a 12-month auto-renewal. Essentials plan A$29/month + GST.
Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Vendors can't pay for a better verdict.