Common Sense Ventures

Common Sense Ventures is an Australian family office venture capital firm based in Melbourne, dedicated to investing in, supporting, and building early-stage, fast-growing Australian businesses. Established in 2006, the firm distinguishes itself through a long-term partnership approach with founders, aiming to demystify the often-complex early-stage investment process [3, 4, 6]. They are committed to backing companies that seek to solve significant global problems, aligning their investments with a vision for positive impact on the world [3].

The firm primarily serves early-stage companies, typically providing initial funding ranging from AUD $100,000 to $1 million [3]. Common Sense Ventures is comfortable being the first outside capital into a business or co-investing with other investors as a venture progresses [3]. Their investment focus spans critical sectors including Agtech, Food, Sustainability, eCommerce/DTC, and B2B software, though they remain open to connecting with exceptional businesses outside these core areas [3].

A key differentiator for Common Sense Ventures is their commitment to providing tangible support beyond capital. The team, comprising past entrepreneurs, understands the challenges of growing a business and raising capital [3]. They offer specific assistance such as financial analysis, board representation, marketing support, and operational guidance, even aiding Australian companies with their launch into the United States market [4]. This hands-on, founder-centric approach aims to simplify the investment journey with clear language and fair terms [3, 4].

Leadership at Common Sense Ventures includes Owen Symington as Managing Director and John Symington as Director [4]. Owen brings experience from investment banking and operations, having successfully run and sold Pod & Parcel, a prominent Australian sustainable coffee pod brand [4]. John, currently the Managing Director and owner of Oasis Olives, an award-winning olive oil producer with operations across Australia and South America, contributes a background in technology and agriculture, previously leading companies like Shortcuts Software and Deep Sky Retail [4]. Their combined operational experience forms the bedrock of their supportive investment philosophy, enabling them to truly understand and weather the ups and downs that entrepreneurs will go through [4].