There certainly is a lot to love about passive income — especially when it is coming in like clockwork while you sleep.

And for Aussie investors, the ASX offers one of the most tax-effective and accessible ways to build it: fully franked dividends.

Whether you're aiming for financial freedom, supplementing your salary, or preparing for retirement, building a $1,000 monthly passive income stream from ASX shares is a realistic goal — if you have a clear strategy and some patience.

Here's how you can get there.

Step 1: Know your target

To generate $1,000 per month, or $12,000 per year, from dividends, you'll need a portfolio that can reliably deliver that level of income. If your portfolio yields an average of 5% per annum, that means you'll need around $240,000 invested.

If your average dividend yield is closer to 6%, the required investment falls to $200,000. That might sound like a lot, but it is achievable over time with regular contributions and reinvestment.

Step 2: Choose strong dividend payers

Not all ASX dividend shares are created equal. When building a passive income portfolio, you want reliable companies with a track record of consistent, sustainable dividends — ideally fully franked.

Some examples on the ASX include:

• GQG Partners Inc. (ASX: GQG) – Offers a sky-high dividend yield and is backed by rising funds under management.
• Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) – A consistent dividend payer with strong cash flows and a yield around 4.5%.
• Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) – A defensive business that continues to deliver stable dividends through market cycles.
• APA Group (ASX: APA) – A utility-like stock with steady income from long-term infrastructure contracts.
• HomeCo Daily Needs REIT (ASX: HDN) – A property trust focused on essential retail, with an attractive yield paid quarterly.

Blending stocks from different sectors — telcos, infrastructure, retail, and financials — also helps diversify your income and reduce risk.

Step 3: Reinvest until you reach your goal

If you're not relying on the income right away, reinvesting your dividends can dramatically speed up your journey to $1,000 per month.

Dividend reinvestment plans (DRPs) allow you to buy additional shares without brokerage, compounding your returns over time. Combine that with regular contributions, and your portfolio can grow much faster than you might expect.

Step 4: Be patient, stay consistent

Rome wasn't built in a day — and neither is a strong income portfolio. But with consistency, discipline, and a focus on quality dividend payers, reaching your passive income goal is entirely achievable.

The more you can invest each month, the quicker you will get there. But even if you're starting with a smaller amount — say adding $500 a month to your portfolio, the magic of compounding can get you to your $1,000 monthly passive income target over time.

Foolish takeaway

Passive income from ASX shares isn't just a dream — it is a plan. And in a world of falling term deposit rates and rising living costs, building your own stream of tax-effective, reliable dividends could be one of the smartest moves you make.

So whether you're starting today or already on your way, the path to $1,000 a month in passive income is clear — and the ASX is ready to help you walk it.